Boat Racing: One of the Most Exciting Sports to Watch and Partake In

Combining high-octane speed, water and powerful vehicles, power boat racing makes for one of the most exciting sports to both watch and take part in. Motor boat racing is a sport whose roots go back to the late 19th century, when Daimler Motor Company was among the first to outfit boats with internal-combustion engines. By 1903, the first major motor boat racing event (British International "Harmsworth" Trophy) took place in Queenstown, Ireland, and the following year the United States hosted the Gold Cup race. Back then, top racing speeds of roughly 20 miles per hour were deemed impressive. Have times changed.

Power boat racing today is a sport of far higher speeds and continued emphasis on cutting-edge technology. The sport attracts throngs of fans all over the world and brings thrills and excitement to the spectator and racer alike. There are many power boat racing events that take place every year throughout the world, and several classes of power boats, each with its own special following of racers and fans.

Inboard boats come in many sizes and speeds, and outboard varieties range from stock models to drag boats which can attain speeds of over 200 miles per hour. Superlight Tunnel Boats are motorized inflatables, personal watercraft racing is a popular class of motor boat racing, and even vintage models get to show off the technology and styles of yesteryear. The diversity of motor boat racing even includes remote-control and junior classes!

The type of technology behind power boats is extraordinary, with many of today's record breakers pushing beyond 200 miles per hour. The fastest of today's power boats utilize supercharged, high-performance turbine engines that can easily churn out more than 1,000-2,000 horsepower. As with the auto industry, motor boats may become greener in the future, and there have been some recent advancements in biodiesel technology in power boats. Solar and electric-powered boats have been around for decades.