ROLLIN’ ON THE RIVER!

What started over two decades ago by its late founder Rus Matos, has now become a popular weekend getaway for performance boaters in North Florida who can enjoy the pleasures of boating in the less travelled St. Johns River, which holds the records as Florida’s longest river, at 310 miles. While the St. John’s River is the source of Jacksonville Florida’s nickname, the River City, it is interesting to note that while the mighty flows through the heart of this major Florida city, the Toys Tour makes its homeport the small town of Palatka, where the river winds through wilderness and is most popular with fisherman and recreational boaters for its scenic beauty, calm protected waters, and numerous rustic waterfront restaurants and quaint fish camps.

The event is now headed up by organizer Walter Braithwaite who currently works with Velocity Powerboats and is an industry-veteran-turned poker run organizer who invested tremendous time and finances in putting together a first class event that made everyone feel welcome. While close to 100 teams were reported to have registered, it was apparent that at least sixty powerboats of all sizes took part in the fun run to 3 Bananas Restaurant in Crescent City, sponsored by Cigarette Racing Team. The next day featured a toy hand off for the kids, followed by lunch at Renegades on the River, which culminated at Silver Glen Springs, a popular anchorage in crystal clear, spring fed water. With the excitement of river cruising by day, paired with great dinner parties under the event tent, this was a splendid way to enjoy a rural and often undiscovered piece of paradise in Florida, and it’s a must-do for anyone that can get there!

DANNY

ED MILLER

Hi-Tech Marine | 410-375-1638