The Augusta Southern Nationals took over the Savannah River all weekend.
Organizers say the event was a huge success, though high gas prices fueled some changes.

Fast boats, big crowds and plenty of noise.

"It's awesome, plenty of action," said Troy Daniels. He says it's great to have an event like this here in Augusta.

"It's better than going to Charlotte to Nascar," he said.

It's a big fuel savings. Mack McNorrill says he thinks that's why this years crowd seems bigger than years past.

"They're staying at home to save a little fuel," he said.

There is a downside -- while the shore is packed, there are fewer boats on the water. These are not cheap to fill up.

McNorril says the boats' fuel costs $40 a gallon.

But even with a little less noise this year -- Daniels is not complaining.

"It's guys trying to make an honest buck, get a trophy, go home, say I'm a winner," he said.

Organizers estimate more than 15,000 people attended this year's event from as far away as Australia.

Last year the event had an estimated economic impact of nearly $2-million for the Augusta economy.