Experiencing the hydroplane races in the northwest can be days of fun in the sun as long as you are prepared. If you don't have the right supplies, your weekend will be considerable less fun and more miserable, trust me. After over a decade of taking my family to the races, here is a small list of 10 things I would never leave home without bringing.

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#1 - Lots of H2O: This is number one on the list for a reason. Water is hard to come by at the river and can be very expensive if you don't come prepared. If you need water for an emergency, you can always go to the medical tent. They have them on both sides of the races.

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#2 - Sunscreen: Shade is another thing that is hard to come by at the races. Two days of sitting and swimming in the sun can turn you into a lobster if your not careful. Make sure to bring sunscreen that is strong enough to last even while swimming in water. The higher the number, the better.

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#3 - Favorite Hat: A great hat will keep you much cooler and keep your face from burning off. It also helps with your amazing boat race outfit you have picked out to impress all your co-workers.

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#4 - Folding Chairs: Either you sit on the ground for 2 days or bring some folding chairs. Believe me, they are worth hauling down to the beach. Bring one for everyone because you will want to sit for a while or take a nap.

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#5 - Shade: If you can bring a tent for cover or an umbrella, do it. You won't be able to bring it in unless you have a private area I am pretty sure. Otherwise, get there early to try and get a spot with shade. Warning: there is not much on either side, but especially the Pasco side.

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#6 - Radio: They do have the race broadcast on speakers down at the park but in most locations it can be hard to hear. Its a great idea to bring your own, but of course you will need lots of batteries or a small generator to keep it running.

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#7 - Sun Glasses: If you don't bring these, what are you doing? 2 days in the 100 degree heat, you WILL need your sunglasses. Really you should bring two pair just in case.

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#8 - Camera (phone): Bring it and take lots of pictures for great memories. Just make sure you don't drop it in the water. Trust me, I dropped my iPhone in the lake two years ago and it wasn't fun.

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#9 - Food & Adult Beverages: You ONLY can bring these if you have your own private area. Otherwise you will have to spend your time at the beer garden that probably doesn't have your favorite drink. If you don't know what a private area tent section is...I am sorry for you. It is the only way to really experience the races. Find someone you know that has access, that is the best advice I can give.

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#10 - Designated Driver: EVERY year, someone I know or work with gets a DUI leaving the races. If you are drinking, smoking, or vaping at the races and are not fit to drive, make sure you have a designated driver or call a ride. It is much cheaper then a DUI will cost and a lot less hassle. You do not want to be THAT guy or gal.

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