Lake of the Ozarks Shootout Donates Record-Breaking $815,000 to 47 Lake Area Charities; $1.42 Million Remaining Local; Total of $1.62 Million Raised in 2025

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Official Shootout Press Release

Contact: Leah Martin, Executive Director Email: info@lotoshootout.com

Prepared by: Christy Wagner, Editor

Release Date: February 11th, 2026

On behalf of the Lake of the Ozarks Shootout, we apologize for the delay in sharing last year’s incredible news. We are just now recovering from the most epic year in Shootout history since 1989. If you asked Shootout President Mark Maasen (2024–present), however, we’re pretty sure the race’s inaugural year would be considered the most incredible of them all.

“The Lake of the Ozarks Shootout continues to demonstrate what is possible when an entire community rallies around a shared purpose,” Maasen stated. “The funds raised through the Shootout directly support meaningful causes and reflect the dedication of our racers, sponsors, volunteers, and fans. This impact is something we are extremely proud of and committed to growing each year. I have watched this event grow since the very beginning, and after being present at each one since, I could not be more proud of where it is heading.”

The recent trajectory of funds raised over the past handful of years has been unparalleled. In fact, we thought that $730,000 raised in 2024 was a feat in and of itself; however, we are now closer than ever to reaching the “$1,000,000 donated per year” mark. For reference, the Lake of the Ozarks Shootout has given back a projected total of $6,900,000 to the tri-county community since 1989. It is important to note that in prior years, particularly in the early stages, the total amount of funds raised and donated were calculated in a generalized manner. The Shootout Board of Directors wishes to change this approach by providing the community with a transparent breakdown of yearly expenditures between Shootout Offshore and the Lake of the Ozarks Shootout, which for 2025 is as follows:

2025 Lake of the Ozarks Shootout yearly expenditures breakdown

In summary, the Shootout raised $815,000 for tri-county charitable organizations in 2025. Including these donations to the local community, the total event income was $1,628,824, with $1,583,400 allocated to charitable givebacks and event operating expenses.

In short, of the $1.62 million raised, more than $1.4 million remained in the Lake of the Ozarks community, not including the millions of dollars in additional economic impact generated annually by the Shootout through tourism to the Lake area.

Although this event is about so much more than funds raised, it is important to note that many Lake-area first responders, non-profits, and other organizations rely on these funds as a crucial portion of their operating budgets each year. The Lake of the Ozarks Shootout Board of Directors and staff see it as their most important responsibility not to let these deserving organizations down, and we have big shoes to fill in 2026.

“What makes the Lake of the Ozarks Shootout truly special is what happens after the checkered flag,” stated Shootout Director Leah Martin (2021–present). “The funds raised through this event allow us to support important charities and initiatives, reinforcing our commitment to giving back to the community that makes the Shootout possible.”

Shootout #38 proudly embraces 250 years of freedom and thirty-eight years of racing. In line with this, the theme for the annual LOTO Race Guide will be Americana, celebrating tradition, community, and the roots of powerboat racing. In collaboration with national and state partners, including ‘Show-Me America 250’ and the Missouri Lieutenant (Lt.) Governor’s Office for the second year in a row, the event proudly revives the nostalgia of the Lt. Governor’s Cup of the late 90s. This renewed partnership honors the heritage of the sport while bringing its classic spirit to a new generation of fans, racers, and families at the Lake of the Ozarks.

“The Lake of the Ozarks Shootout is pure adrenaline and Missouri pride at its finest!” stated the Office of Missouri Lt. Governor David Wasinger. “There’s nothing like the roar of those engines and the sight of the fastest boats in the world to bring the Lake community together. This year, as we celebrate America 250, the Shootout is taking things to a whole new level. It’s a massive tribute to American ingenuity and the spirit that defines our nation and state. Best of all, it’s all for a great cause. Last year’s event raised record-breaking funds for our local first responders and dozens of Lake-area charities. Whether you’re here for the legendary Street Party or the 200+ mph runs on the water, come join us for the ultimate summer celebration. Let’s make some memories, support our local heroes, and show the world how Missouri celebrates 250 years of freedom. See you on the water!”

Shootout 38 | 250 Years of Freedom. 38 Years of Racing.

For sponsorship opportunities, please email: info@lotoshootout.com. To register and/or view this year’s full schedule of events, please visit: www.lotoshootout.com and click on the events tab.