The roar of the engines. The spray of the water. The thrill of watching the fastest boats in the world tear across the Lake of the Ozarks—it’s no wonder the Shootout is one of the most anticipated events of the year. But when the checkered flag waves and the sun starts to dip behind the horizon, the real question is… where does the party go from here?
At Shorty Pants, we like to think of ourselves as the unofficial afterburners for Shootout weekend—where the adrenaline keeps flowing, the music gets louder, and the flavors are every bit as bold as the boats.
A History of Speed and Community
The Lake of the Ozarks Shootout began in 1988 as a modest local challenge to see who had the fastest boat—and to support local fire departments through the Lake Rescue Shootout Association. Over decades, it blossomed into the nation’s largest unsanctioned boat race and a must-attend international event.
Boats thunder over a straight course, clocking speeds well above 200 mph—top racers even hit 209 mph, pushing the limits of what’s possible on water.
Add Dining at Shorty Pants to Your Schedule!
This year, the excitement of the Lake of the Ozarks Shootout is revving up at our sister restaurant, Dog Days Bar & Grill! Located right on the water, Dog Days is the perfect spot to catch all the high-speed action, with front-row views of the race course. Whether you’re there for the races or just soaking up the vibrant atmosphere, the energy at Dog Days is unbeatable. With delicious food, cold drinks, and an iconic location, it’s no wonder that the Shootout has found a home at this beloved lakeside hotspot for the ultimate thrill-seeker experience.
Events to Watch and Join: The full Shootout week is packed:
• Mini Shootout (Aug 16–Aug 17): remote-controlled boats burning up the water to snag Top Gun honors.
• Shootout on the Strip (Aug 20): street block party vibes at Bagnell Dam Strip—a perfect pregame.
• Shootout Showcase (Aug 21): hands-on demos with top boat manufacturers at Dog Days Bar & Grill.
• The Main Event (Aug 23 – Aug 24): gear up for race day as race boats speed down the ¾ mile course in hopes to be the top gun!
Menu Highlights for Race Week
• World-Famous Crab Cakes and Cajun Bloody Marys—fuel up in true Southern style before the boats roar by.
• Dirty Jambalaya and Crawfish-N-Shrimp Étouffée—heartwarming fuel to keep the excitement high all day.
• Sweet Coconut Shrimp or Blackened Shrimp—a perfect balance of spice and comfort to pair with the rumble of engines.
After the races, there’s no better way to wind down than with a trip to Shorty Pants, where the celebration continues with mouthwatering Cajun cuisine and ice-cold drinks. Whether you’re craving a plate of spicy jambalaya, a classic po’ boy, or just looking to relax with a signature cocktail, we’ve got you covered. Our laid-back, lakeside atmosphere is the perfect spot to kick back, share stories from the day’s adventures, and keep the good times rolling long after the final boat crosses the finish line. So, grab your friends, head on over, and let’s keep the party going at Shorty Pants!