Silverdale Thunder 2009 is a splash away.

The fifth annual hydroplane racing event is tapped for Aug. 14-16, bringing some of the nation’s top hydro talent to the waters of Dyes Inlet.

Sanctioned and sponsored by the Unlimited Light Hydroplane Racing Association, the two-day racing event begins with qualifying runs the morning of Aug. 15, followed by heat racing that afternoon and Aug. 16.

Deck-to-deck racing action begins at 8 a.m. Aug. 15, with fans receiving an up-close look at the boats, meeting the drivers and collecting racing souvenirs. The final heat, determining the winner of the Silverdale Thunder Trophy, is Aug. 16.

A beer garden, which opens at 5 p.m. Aug. 14, and live music — including the bands Coldnote, HD Fusion and the Warren Brothers — are among the weekend-long entertainment.