Madison, IN: Madison Regatta officials announced at their weekly membership meeting that all active U.S. Military personnel will be admitted free of charge to the 2009 Madison Regatta. Regatta president, Crystal McHargue, stated that although this is a very small token of appreciation for the sacrifices made each and every day by our active military and their families, this is something we want to do to say thank you for keeping us safe and our country strong. 

In addition to free admission, all active military personnel and their families will have access to a private viewing area situated above the race course just west and next to the VIP viewing area. Family members will also be able to purchase admission wrist bands at any time during the event at the advance sale price of $20.00. Each active military attendee will only have to show their military I.D. Card at the will-call trailer located just above the West Street gate entrance to receive their admission wrist band. Immediate family members of active military personnel will also be able to purchase their discounted wrist bands at the will-call trailer as well. 

The Madison Regatta has also dedicated Unlimited heat 3C in honor of the men and women currently in uniform and all U.S. Military veterans. Active military personnel are also invited to tour the race pits free of charge during the event as part of their Madison Regatta visit.  

The 2009 Madison Regatta is set to kick off Friday July 3rd, with Unlimited Hydroplane testing and qualifying. Heat racing continues Saturday July 4th, and concludes with the running of the Indiana Governor's Cup Sunday afternoon July 5th. A full schedule of pre-race events are also planned including the Miss Madison Pageant, the annual Main Street parade on Friday, and the American Legion Post # 9 fireworks extravagaza. For additional information regarding event and race schedules, visit www.madisonregatta.com, or call the Madison Regatta office at 812-265-5000.