Ackermans to race at St. John opener

The seventh year of sprint boat racing on the Palouse will start Saturday at Webb’s Slough in St. John.

The race is the first in the 2013 United States Sprint Boat Association circuit.

Amanda Webb said they expect close to 30 boats for the races including Colfax’s Scott Ackerman and several new teams.

The jet-powered boats feature a driver and navigator in three classifications.

Gates open Saturday at 9 a.m. with qualifying runs starting at 10 a.m.

Advance tickets are $18 for adults and $15 for youth ages 6-17. Tickets are available at Ackerman Heating and Air Conditioning in Colfax, Zeppos in Pullman, Inland Cellular in Moscow and Empire Foods in St. John. Ticket prices at the gate go up to $20 for adults and $17 for kids.