Hydroplane

Powerboat Racing Curacao (PRC) was officially introduced to the public on October 24, 2019. PRC is a racing league which will initially promote and organize J and A class hydroplane racing in Curacao. For the launch of the program two hydroplanes were built in Curacao by PRC, in accordance with the plans of master builder D. Sorensen.

Although hydroplane racing is new to the island, organized boat racing has been practiced around the world for almost 100 years. Consequently, PRC’s rules and regulations will be completely based on those of the Union Internationale Motonautique (UIM) and the American Power Boat Association (APBA), as these have a proven track record on safety, which is our number one priority. Hydroplane owners and drivers will be subject to the rules and regulations of the PRC.

PRC has identified many possible locations to practice the sport of hydroplane racing. Basically areas of near flat waters large enough for a race course to be marked out are required, and these can be found amongst others in:

• Spanish Water (many inlets)
• Fuik Bay
• Piscadera Bay
• Santa Martha Bay
• Sint Joris Bay
• and possibly even Waaigat.

 

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can grown up’s compete as well? YES, the hydroplanes are sturdy enough to handle the weight and extra horsepower, since adult drivers use either a modified 15 HP or 25 HP outboard engine. An owner can also assign driving duties to another person, just as in drag racing, horse racing, etc.
2. What kind of money are we talking about? SDDKM is working with sponsors to keep the costs as low as possible. The minimum driver investment is a set of safety gear, to PRC specs (see picture).
3. How safe is this sport? Both the APBA and UIM have been organizing J and A hydro races for decades, with a high safety rating. The PRC will adhere to their rules and regulations, and adapt it to our conditions where necessary. It will be safe!
4. Do I need previous boating experience? YES, this is highly recommended. Without it  one can follow courses to get up to speed quickly though.
5. What do I do to get started? The role of the PRC is to help and assist anyone wanting to take up hydroplane racing. At this juncture we are seeking hydroplane owners, sponsors, drivers and people who just want to help out. If you can identify with any of the before mentioned, get in touch with us by using the form below:

 

 

It’s important to point out that hydroplanes should not be used for recreational activities, as they were not designed for this purpose. Consequently, hydroplanes will only take to the water as a group under direct supervision of the PRC, which will have the required safety aspects in place, such as safety boat, etc.