Let the racing begin! Solomons Island is roaring with engines and the sights and sounds of power off-shore racing as  racing boats from all around are converging in preparation for the OPR Grand Prix. The National Championship Race for the 2010 OPA Offshore Racing Series is presented by GEICO and sponsored locally by Bayside Toyota/Chevrolet.

Offshore Powerboat Racing offers the fastest, most thrilling and dangerous sport in the world. Events offer some of the most spectacular boats flying across offshore waters almost every other weekend in races from the east coast to the great lakes.

During the race, the shorelines and in the water around the course will be lined with spectators and boating enthusiasts from around the nation. Those wishing to attend should plan ahead. There will be limited parking in Glascock’s Field on Saturday and Sunday. The pits will open to the public and 9 a.m. both days and there will be multiple vendors and teams.

On Sunday, Oct, 3, parking will be limited to only a few areas. The Solomons Volunteer Fire Department will open its lots for parking at 10 a.m. There will be shuttles that will take spectators from the fire department to Glascock Field then on to Solomons for the races. The proceeds from the parking will be going to the Solomons Volunteer Fire Department.

On Saturday, Oct. 2 there will be a Vendor Area set up on the Dry Pits with things for the whole family to do. There will be Barbecue, Coors Light, and Fantasy World Entertainment with rides for the kids, Bayside Chevrolet Cars to check out, Clarks Landing will have some nice Sea Ray Boats, plus a whole bunch more. Last but not least make sure to check out the race teams including Miss GEICO, Spirit of Qatar and many more as they get ready to race on Sunday.

As planned this weekend’s activities will offer something for everyone. Spectators and fans will be able to tour the Race Village/Dry Pits area where they can see the boats up close, meet the race teams, buy souvenirs and T's, grab a bite to eat and much more.

For boaters, there will be a chance to participate with the big boys or racing and for gaming types there will be the Chesapeake Bay Power Boat Association's "Offshore Hero" Poker Run on Saturday as well. Time Bandit Captains, Jonathan and Andy Hillstrand from Discovery's hit show Deadliest Catch will be on hand for an autograph signing session on Saturday night at Solomons Yachting Center from 6 to 8 p.m... Solomons Yachting Center will host the event on its pool deck.

For race enthusiasts coming by boat, a US Coast Guard permitted spectator section will be located on the NAS PAX side of the river. Those who need help finding it on race day should ask any of the official sweep boats securing the course; identified by flags and numbers.