Presented by

Hydroplane 101

HRL Hydroplane Racing League

The Hydroplane Racing League was created in 2016 on the basis of the Canadian Hydroplane Association (CHA). Since 2011, the league will have enabled the sport to grow, including creating a successful operational structure, with the development of effective regulations and new competition venues.
The HRL is committed to the evolution of hydroplane racing by positioning it as a major sport and giving it a strong image.
There are currently 8 races on the calendar, from May to September, which attract thousands of spectators each weekend. From Detroit, to Salaberry-de-Valleyfield, to the Thousand Islands, each site stands out for the competitiveness of its circuits.
The HRL is always on the lookout for new courses and new teams of enthusiasts to promote this sport of skill and adrenaline.
  • button-plusbutton-moins How to watch a hydroplane race

    Before the start of each race there is a 5 minute warm up period. This period allows the drivers to take different points of reference on the racecourse before the start as well as to warm the engine oil. At this time it is the green flag that allows drivers to know that they are still in the warm up period.

     

    The white flag is waved a minute before the start. Drivers must set up in their assigned lane and get ready for the start.

     

    A clock is displayed in front of the spectators to show how much time is left in the warm up period.

     

    When the clock arrives at 00:00 the drivers can cross the start line legally. If one of the boats passes the starting point (marked by buoys) before the start of the race it gets an automatic penalty.

     

    Exception Grand Prix class only does 4 laps , drivers must complete 5 laps. A checkered flag is waved to mark the winner’s victory. The racecourse is 1 mile.

  • button-plusbutton-moins The supply pits

    The pits are where all the hydroplanes are gathered. This is also the place where the boats are launched in the water by cranes.

     

    The pits are accessible to the public for a fee

  • button-plusbutton-moins The flags

    The race is stopped – immediate immobilization

    The race is on

    Problem on the course – “Attention! ”

    Back to the pits

    Last minute before the start – Last lap of the leader in the race

    End of the race

The different classes

ClassSpeed (km/h)Length (feet)Width (feet)Weight (pounds)Minimum age
Novice
65
300
9
2.5 Litres
150
18.2
9.4
1050
16
F 2500
165
18.2
9.4
1050
16
Jersey Speed Skiff
130
16
6
1650
16
Hydro 350
185
20.5
10.4
1700
16
Pro Hydro
200
26
11.8
2500
16
Grand Prix
225
26
12.6
3250
16