Three minutes before the start, a signal is sounded and the yellow flag is displayed, signaling to the drivers to enter the race course. Sixty seconds brfore the start, a second signal is sounded, the green flag is displayed and the clock is set in motion. No other boats may enter the course at this time.  

The drivers' goal is to cross the starting line at full speed just as the clock reaches zero. Any boats crossing, the line before the clock has reached "zero", are disqualifed for the heat.Boats approaching the line at other than a 90 degree angle or weaving to reduce speed, will also be disqualfiied. If all boats cross the start line before the clock has, reached zero, the heat will be stopped and the heat will have a restart. As you watch the start of a boat reace, keep in mind the secret to successfully starting is DON'T BE EARLY! 
AND DON'T BE LATE!  

An outboard race is comprised of two heats. Boats are awarded points based on their order of finish in each heat. The driver accumulating the most points in both heats is the winner. Winning, a single heat doesn't assure a driver of winning race. Boats disqualified for infractions of the rules also receive no points.  

What makes Outboard Racing so exciting and unpredictable is the sprint-like nature of the sport. Each heat consists of just three laps around an oval course. There is little time to catch up after a slow or late start. 

After the start the drivers next objective is to enter the first turn before everyone else, thereby avoiding the spray-washed traffic jams that arise in that first corner! It's much easier to race a boat around a turn when not being hosed down from a barrage of rooster-tails or jumping over the wakes being left behind by the other boats. Many drivers have said  that being hit by a rooster-tail is not unlike being hit by a fire hose! Drivers may be disqualified in the turns if observed cutting off another driver. That is why the lead at the first turn is so important! Smooth water, an unobstructed view, and the opportunity to hug, the buoys in lane # 1 can lead to victory lane. This is the winning theory behind power boat racing. 

You will notice that each driver is wearing an orange helmet, lifejacket and a "Kevlar" protective driving suit. Orange colors are utilised as they are easily seen in the water should a driver overturn or flip and the driving suit protects the driver in the event he comes in contact with another boat. You may also notice drivers with a cross on the back of their helmet. This indicates that the driver is a rookie. A rookie driver must display this cross on the helmet for the first year of racing. This lets other drivers know that they are new to the sport and might not be ready for all conditions. 

You will notice most boats in the various classes are fairly matched in speed. Only one mile an hour or fess win separate the two or three boats. This factor would be more apparent if each boat ran alone against the clock, not against 12 other drivers. 

If you are interested in getting started in the sport, or just curious, take a stroll through the pits and talk with the drivers and their crews. Outboard racers are a friendly group of people and they love to talk shop or contact the individuals identified in this brochure. Veteran drivers are an invaluable source of information. 

The cost of outboard racing is dependent upon which category you pick and whether you choose to begin new or used equipment. As a general rule, it is wise to buy used equipment for your first year of racing. This will allow you to learn about the sport without a large investment. If you plan to start in the Stock or Modified categories, it is possible to buy a boat motor and propeller for around $1500. The price tag on new equipment will run approximately $3000. You will also need to join the American Outboard Federation and an affiliate local club. It's a good idea to join the club as early as possible. This will keep you close to the span and let you know where the races are being held across the country. 

Outboard racing is a family affair. Classes are available for children as young as 10 years old. We have entire families competing in the various classes. 

Outboard Racing allows racers and their families to travel to different lakes, rivers and resorts in your area and around the country. It has something for everyone. You're invited to join our Wet, Wild and Wonderful span.