Lt. Governor David Wasinger congratulates American Ethanol on winning the Lt. Governor’s Cup at Lake of the Ozarks Shootout

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

August 31, 2026

Lt. Governor David Wasinger congratulates American Ethanol on winning the Lt. Governor’s Cup at Lake of the Ozarks Shootout

OSAGE BEACH, Mo. — Lt. Governor David Wasinger today congratulated Don Onken and Team American Ethanol for winning the 2026 Lt. Governor’s Cup at the 38th Annual Lake of the Ozarks Shootout.

Team American Ethanol earned the event’s top “Top Gun” honor after throwing down a 215-mph run across the course in their 51-foot Mystic catamaran. Driven by a veteran crew under Onken’s leadership, the team mounted a thrilling late-weekend comeback to post the fastest overall speed on the water and reclaim the championship title.

“The Lake of the Ozarks Shootout is one of Missouri’s premier sports traditions, bringing together top-tier marine engineering and incredible competition,” said Lt. Governor Wasinger. “Team American Ethanol put on an incredible show this weekend. Hitting 215 mph to take home the Lt. Governor’s Cup takes serious grit, precision, and world-class crew work. I want to congratulate Don Onken and the entire team on a well-earned victory.”

First held in 1989, the Lake of the Ozarks Shootout has grown into the largest unsanctioned powerboat race in North America, drawing an estimated 100,000 spectators to Central Missouri each August. Beyond the action on the water, the event serves as a major economic driver for the region’s hospitality and marine industries.

The Shootout also operates as a massive regional fundraiser, having raised hundreds of thousands of dollars annually for local needs. Proceeds from the 2026 event will be distributed directly to more than 40 Lake-area charities, fire protection districts, and volunteer first responder organizations.

“What makes the Shootout so special isn’t just the speed on the water, it’s what this event gives back to our communities,” Wasinger added. “The funds raised stay right here in Missouri, helping equip the first responders and local non-profits that keep our families safe every single day. My thanks go out to the event organizers, board members, volunteers, and emergency personnel who worked around the clock to make this weekend a success.”

About David Wasinger

David Wasinger serves as Missouri’s 49th Lt. Governor. Wasinger is a lifelong Missourian, raised in Hannibal, Missouri. He graduated from the University of Missouri-Columbia and Vanderbilt University School of Law, building a career as an attorney who stood up to powerful special interests and fought for justice for everyday Americans.

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Contact: Chris Walker
Chris.Walker@ltgov.mo.gov
Office: (573) 751-4727

Office of Lieutenant Governor David Wasinger
Missouri State Capitol
201 Capitol Ave., Room 224
Jefferson City, MO 65101