Lake Travis to Host AquaPalooza

Austin's Sail and Ski Center recently announced that it has been selected to host the AquaPalooza Signature Event in 2010. Advertised as "The World's Largest Boat Party," the AquaPalooza event showcased 15,600 boats last year and saw 84,000 visitors. This year, organizers expect the event to be even bigger than last year.

Held during the last two weekends in July, the free AquaPalooza event was created by Sea Bass Boats and is open to both boaters as well as non-boaters. This is the first time the event will be held on Lake Travis, however, as the lake levels had been to low in the past to host the event.

"Unfortunately the rains didn't come and the lake levels continued to drop off, so we were not able to host the event," said Laura Mitchell, who is a member of the Lake Travis Chamber of Commerce, in an interview with News 8.

Due to El Nino, this situation has changed. Furthermore, if the weather patterns remain consistent, the lake levels should be just perfect for the event, which could potentially give a huge boost to local businesses.

"It will create the most positive economic impact we have ever seen in the Lake Travis area," continued Mitchell. "Our business community needs it, wants it, and we're thrilled to have them come."

Kendra Clawson, who works for the Lower Colorado River Authority, is making certain the event is both safe and fun for all involved.

"It's going to take a tremendous amount of resources and a big team effort with not just LCRA," said Clawson. "It's going to be a team effort between all the local law enforcement, and also Austin Travis County, Texas Parks and Wildlife. Several agencies are going to be involved in this to make sure everyone stays safe out on the water."

Selecting the Sail & Ski Center to host the event couldn't have been a difficult choice for organizers. In fact, Boating Industry Magazine listed the center in the number one position in its list of Top 100 Dealers in North America. With locations in Austin, Houston and Lakeway, the center has a large inventory of new boats, used boats and other personal water craft as well as a parts and services department.

The year's event is scheduled to be held on Lake Travis on July 31 and is certain to be a great success for participants as well as area businesses.