During the first weekend of September, University of Missouri and University of Illinois fans will descend upon St. Louis for the 2009 Arch Rivalry football game. This year, the rivalry will head to the waters of the Mighty Miss with an old-fashioned riverboat race in front of the Gateway Arch on game-day morning, Sat., Sept. 5.
Two replica paddle-wheel riverboats will be decked out in the team colors for the battle on the Mississippi. Tiger and Illinois fans are invited to wear their black and gold or orange and blue, and board their team’s designated riverboat beginning at 9 a.m., with the race starting at 9:45 a.m.
In addition to the competition, participants will enjoy amazing views of the Gateway Arch and downtown St. Louis skyline, as well as a continental breakfast and complimentary drink (cash bar to follow).
“With Mizzou and Illinois launching their 2009 seasons, Arch Rivalry is an exciting weekend in St. Louis,” said Tara Creamer of Gateway Arch Riverfront. “We are pleased to join in the festivities with a classic riverboat race in the shadow of the Arch.”
The cruise is $19 per person and includes team-color beads and entry to win a team gift basket, as well as the complimentary beverage, continental breakfast and more. The race is expected to be finished and the boat returned to the dock by 10:30 a.m.
For more information about the cruise, fans should visit www.gatewayarch.com or call 1-877-982-1410.