Event Recap: Upper Midwest Powerboat Association Season Finale Thrills Crowds again 2025

Fremont, WI – The roar of drag boat engines once again echoed across the Wolf River as the Upper Midwest Powerboat Association (UMPBA) brought its 2025 two-day season finale to Fremont, September 6–7. Despite early concerns about the weather, both days drew strong crowds from across Wisconsin and beyond, proving once again why Fremont is a favorite stop on the circuit.

A Big Weekend on the River

Saturday’s action kicked off at 11 AM, with racers lining up in seven classes ranging from the Junior Class (55 mph limit for ages 13–15) to the Unlimited Class, where boats regularly top 100 mph. Sunday’s schedule began at 10 AM and carried the excitement right through the finals. Fans filled the Webfooters Ski Show grounds and lined up at local restaurants and bars with riverfront views, creating a festival-like atmosphere in downtown Fremont.

UMPBA thanked everyone for coming out and gave special appreciation to the Webfooters Water Ski Team for hosting the event on their site. In a post-race message, the group said: “Thank you all for the amazing race year! Get ready for next season! Thank you to our sponsors and venues for making this possible.”

Fremont Welcomes the Action

Local leaders were equally thrilled. “The UMPBA races bring incredible energy to Fremont! Our businesses love the excitement, and we are proud to welcome the racers and fans each year,” said Lisa Socha, Fremont Area Chamber of Commerce President and owner of the Hotel Fremont.

Catching up after the races, she shared the chamber was “ecstatic with the event and excited to see the racers return in 2026!”

Season Standouts

The 2025 campaign saw impressive performances across all classes:

• 65 Class – Marc Gajdos (#95) finished the season with a perfect 100 points.

• 75 Class – Kevin Johnson (#21) claimed the top spot with 98 points.

• 85 Class – Bob Carlson (#27) secured first place with 97 points.

• 95 Class – Nick Peterson (#24) wrapped up the year with a flawless 100 points.

• 105 Class – Max Fandre (#97) also matched perfection with 100 points.

These champions highlight the depth of talent in the UMPBA, from rising stars to seasoned veterans, and give fans plenty to look forward to when racing resumes in 2026.

Thanks to the Upper Midwest Powerboat Association Sponsors

This season’s finale was made possible thanks to the support of key sponsors:Mercury Racing, Bullheads Bar & Grill, BS Propellers, Nueske’s Applewood Smoked Meats, Signature Propellers, Simplicity Health, Jack’s Maintenance, Wizard Pistons, Dearborn Drone Co., Fremont Chamber of Commerce, and Merton Marine.

Looking Ahead

While Fremont and Stevens Point remain staples on the UMPBA schedule, 2026 will also bring new venues in Forest Lake, MN and Beaver Dam, WI. With growing youth classes, strong sponsor support, and ever-increasing fan enthusiasm, the future looks bright for drag boat racing in the Upper Midwest.

📅 Event Recap: September 6–7, 2025

📍 Location: Webfooters Water Ski Grounds, 314 Wolf River Dr., Fremont, WI

🌐 Learn more: UMPBA.org