Sept. 16, 2009 — Cherokee Casino Will Rogers Downs will be the setting for more than 200 ultralight aircraft vehicles as they take flight across northeastern Oklahoma during the 2009 Powrachute Extravaganza Sept. 17-20.
The Powrachute Extravaganza is hosted by the Powrachute Corp. of Middleville, Mich., and attracts sport pilots from across the country.
“This is the first time we’ve held an event of this kind. The closest in comparison would be the Gatesway Balloon Festival, but this will be the first for what is classified as a ‘powered ultralight.’ It will definitely be a sight to see, but it will also have a positive impact on local businesses in Rogers County,” said David Stewart, CEO of Cherokee Nation Entertainment, which operates Cherokee Casinos and Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa.
“We have many attendees that have committed to staying on our KOA campground, but many others plan to stay at local hotels and explore what the area has to offer,” continued Stewart.
In addition to the hundreds of pilots, the event is also expected to draw hundreds more spectators, ultralight dealers and enthusiasts to Claremore for the four-day event.
The Powrachute Extravaganza is free to the public to attend with introductory flights available starting at 7:30 a.m. each day of the event for a charge. Event-goers can also enjoy carnival-style food, kids’ activities, informational seminars and vendor booths during the event. Paragliders are also welcome to fly.
Cherokee Casino Will Rogers Downs will feature free live entertainment Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights during the Powrachute Extravaganza, including the multiple award-winning country super-group Ricochet at 10 p.m. on Sept. 19. The casino also features 200 electronic games and delicious lunch and dinner menus at the Dog Iron Saloon and country-style breakfast in the Mercedes Room.
For more information about the Powrachute Extravaganza and powered parachutes, contact local dealer Bob Hawkins with Hawkeye Powerchutes, Inc. at hawkeyechutes@aol.com or call 918-284-0032 or 918-341-6256.
For more information, visit www.cherokeestarrewards.com or call 283-8800.
