Bring On The Inaugural Bago Big Bet

Performance-boat event fans looking to break from their routines this season have something new to check out thanks to the inaugural Bago Big Bet happening set for June 20-23 in Oshkosh, Wis. The Lake Winnebago event, which includes a poker run, a boat parade on Main Street, a concert and much more is being backed by Mercury Racing, Discover Oshkosh, Night Out Limousine and Hansen’s Heavy Hauling.

With the Fox River leading into Lake Winnebago and Mercury Racing and Mercury Marine in its backyard, Oshkosh, Wis., is an ideal poker-run venue. Photo copyright speedonthewater.com.

An experienced go-fast powerboat-event organizer, Shannon Higgins of Offshore Wench, is producing the event. Registration will open on February 19 and is limited to 100 boats with either Mercury Racing or Mercury Marine power. Cost is $550 per boat and captain, $250 for each adult passenger and $100 for passengers 12 years old and younger.

Though registration is three weeks away from opening, Higgins already has secured a room-block at the Marriott Oshkosh Waterfront hotel. (Would-be Bago Big Bet participants must reference “Offshore Wench” when registering via , 920-230-1900 to receive room-block pricing.) The event will raise funds for the nonprofit K-9 For Warriors organization, which trains guide dogs for veterans.

The event has been in the planning stages for more than a year. With 20 events organized in Wisconsin and her home-state of Ohio, Higgins brings 15 years of experience to her leadership role.

“I love the camaraderie and the sense of family this boating community bring,” said Higgins, who is full-time psychiatric nurse and mother of two; 16-year-old Eva and 12-year-old Aidan. “The feeling of being part of something bigger is so humbling and fulfilling.

“When Mercury Racing asked me to partner with them I was ecstatic and honored,” she added. “What a way to validate my years of blood, sweat and tears in this business.”