Hydros for Heroes is an American Power Boats Association (APBA) registered national and regional professional racing event, but for the City of Oak Harbor, this race has a much deeper meaning. Hydros for Heroes is a charity event promoted and hosted by The Craig McKenzie Team Foundation and supported by the Rotary Club of Oak Harbor. This event is meant to highlight the Heroes in our local community, such as the members of the military, law enforcement, firefighters, teachers and health care professionals. These Heroes help our community every day through their service and sacrifice. 

The race is operated and run by The Craig McKenzie Team, the Rotary Club of Oak Harbor, and by community volunteers. The net proceeds from Hydros for Heroes go to the Rotary Club of Oak Harbor’s charitable programs. Primary among these programs is the “Food 4 Kids Backpack Program.” This Program provides food for over 90 elementary-age children each weekend who otherwise may not eat between Friday and Monday. One of the other key programs is providing scholarships to seniors at the Oak Harbor High School to help pay for college. The scholarships range from $1,000 to $4,000. This professional racing event draws over 50 regional race teams, which include some of the sport’s top names and approximately 10,000 fans from local and surrounding areas, as well as nationally. Come see some of the biggest rooster tails this side of anywhere!