Mayor Kilpatrick Test Drives Offshore Pro Series Racing Boat to Kick Start 2007 Chrysler Jeep Superstores APBA Gold Cup

        Friday, July 13, 2007 At 9:00 a.m. Henderson Park Pit Area
                  Opens Thunder On Detroit River Weekend

         Offshore Boats Powered By Engines Up To 3,700 Horsepower

DETROIT, Mich., July 13, 2007 -- Mayor Kilpatrick will test-drive an Offshore Pro Series powerboat - which range from 39 to 44 feet in length and are powered by automotive or turbine engines up to 3,700 horsepower - today [Friday] at 9:00 a.m. to kick start the 2007 Chrysler Jeep Superstores APBA Gold Cup Weekend.

This will be the first time Offshore boats have run on the hydroplane racecourse.

The roar of eight Offshore Pro Series powerboats adds a new dimension to the Gold Cup race weekend on the Detroit River, July 13 - 15.

"They finally got a boat that fits me," Mayor Kilpatrick said. "I've always enjoyed watching the race, but I'm really going to enjoy the ride of the river."

The test-drive will take place on the Detroit River as Mayor Kilpatrick runs a couple laps on the racecourse. Offshore boats raced as part of the Detroit events from 1979-1983.

The Offshore Boat pit area is in Henderson Park pit area, which is located near the MacArthur (Belle Isle) Bridge. There will be an opportunity for photos and a brief Q & A period.

The title sponsor is the Chrysler Jeep Superstores Advertising Association. The Chrysler Jeep Superstores Advertising Association is made up of the 39 independently owned Chrysler Jeep Superstores in Southeastern Michigan from Monroe to Fowlerville and from Clinton to Port Huron. Website: chryslerjeepsuperstores.com.

For tickets or more information, log on to the DRRA's Web site, www.gold-cup.com/fanguide.

  For Chrysler Jeep Superstores:
  Juanita A. Davis or
  Leland K. Bassett
  Bassett & Bassett, Incorporated
  313-965-3010 [24-7-365]

  For Detroit River Regatta Association
  Mark Weber, 586-774-0980

PRNewswire -- July 13