Published: July 02, 2009 04:57 pm      

New events take shape at RBD

CLINTON — Two new events will be featured at Clinton Riverboat Days this year.

On Saturday, festival goers can take part in a Guitar Hero tournament or see the first-ever Riverboat Days Motocross event.

The tournament, which begins at 11 a.m., will be broken into three different brackets based on each player’s skill level. Winners of each bracket will receive gift certificates to Gamestop.

“We’re trying to gear things more towards the kids so we can get them more involved,” said Dawn Holsinger, member of the Riverboat Days board.

Sales from the popular video game that simulates guitar playing have totaled more than $1 billion since the first version was released in 2005. Numerous spin-offs have been released including Guitar Hero Aerosmith and Metallica.

The event will be held under a tent that has two 42-inch flat screen televisions. Individuals can sign up for the event that day or online at www.riverboatdays.org.

Saturday’s motocross will kick off with heats beginning at 2 p.m. and the race following at 3 p.m.

Dave Fullerton, who is overseeing the event, said he is expecting about 240 motorcycle riders, including 20 professional riders, to take part in the activities.

“It’s something new and neat for the people of Clinton to see,” Fullerton said.

Interested riders can sign up that day. Winners of the amateur events will receive trophies, plaques or medals.