This one on Lake Cumberland lead to the death of 2:
Poker Run
Smith Mountain Lake has also had several poker run deaths.
When those idiots on the poker runs get on the water I get off. Some of those boats are capable of over 150 mph. The true offshore racing boats have 3 crew--one on the helm, one on the wheel, one mechanic. All are looking ahead, for wakes, debris--many of the racers have choppers or airplanes flying the course to look for hazards.
The video posted by Tom was during a Poker Run. The skipper pushes the throttle all of the way forward, and leaves it there--hand off . Even in our slow C Dorys we should keep one hand on the throttle and one hand on the helm in rough conditions. If there is rough water or a wake, back off on the throttle, Almost all of the passengers are standing--mistake- Passengers at speed should be well seated. I have seen broken backs, legs and ankles from standing.
I used to care for a number of the offshore racers, and they had no respect for those weekend warriors, especially when they have several beers.
I rode in a formula one racer at 138 mph. Professional driver, 5 point harness, kevlar capsule if the boat crashed to protect the occupants, a pony oxygen bottle at the ready, full racing type I jacket with neck support, racing helmet and rescue divers standing by on the course.