DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) — Last year was the first time the boat races were back at Lake Decatur after more than two decades. Now, the team behind the event is hard at work, hoping to make the event even better than the year before. 

"We thought year one was pretty perfect, the weather was definitely on our side," said Terri Hammel, Executive Director of the Decatur Area Convention and Visitors Bureau. "We had so many people come down to the boat races because they were so excited for us to bring them back." 

The boat races will be taking place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. This year, they are expecting 60 boats, which is more than they had racing last year. 

"Anybody can come down and enjoy the races anywhere along the beach and lakefront," said Clay Gerhard, Executive Director for the Decatur Park District. "You'll be able to watch the boats zipping around the lake at 150, 160 miles an hour. You'll hear the roar of the engines, and it's exhilarating. It's full of energy. And it's just a good time." 

And if boat racing isn't your style, there's plenty of other things you can do. You can stop by the booths selling local art, or over 30 food vendors. 

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