Hydroplane 101
HRL Hydroplane Racing League
-
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.
-
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
-
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
| Class | Speed (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 |
