U.S.A. World Jet Boat River Marathon set for April 13-21

Toyota and Weaver Seed of Oregon will become the title sponsors of the 2012 U.S.A. World Jet Boat River Marathon set for April 13-21 on the St. Joe River in St. Maries; Snake River at Lewiston/Clarkston; Clearwater River in Orofino and Salmon River in Riggins.

"We are thrilled to have an exceptional partnership with Toyota and Weaver Seed for this exciting event on four north central Idaho rivers," U.S.A. World Race Organizer Kim Friend said.

Jet boat drivers and navigators from Canada, New Zealand, Mexico and the United States will compete in one of five race classes based on engine size, speed and hull design.

The U.S.A. has the opportunity to host the world jet boat race every four years.

Spectators may watch the race for free from a river bank with public access along each of the four rivers.

At the 2011 Canadian World Race, the number of fans watching along riverbanks ranged from 400 to upward of 5,000 people per venue, according to information from the Canadian World Race Committee.

Each race team spent an estimated $1,000 per day on either food, lodging and/or sundry items.