Try It, You'll be Hooked!
One of the best ways to get started in powerboat racing without a significant financial investment is to attend a Driving School. Various clubs throughout the county hold driving schools throughout the year, allowing future drivers young and old to experience firsthand what it's like to be in the cockpit of a powerboat at speed. Contact your Local club to find out when the next driving school will be taking place near you!
APBA Driving School– May 19-20, 2012
Designed and directed by the American Powerboat Association, APBA Driving School is an opportunity for interested racers to experience the thrill of driving race boats while learning from the best in a safe, insured, and controlled environment.
APBA provides the boats, safety and communications equipment and instruction. Each student will have the option to choose from four classes for the weekend:
- Junior Class Hydro ages 9 thru 15
- C Stock Hydroplane age 16+
- Inboard 5 Litre age 16+
- Tunnel Boat age 18+
How does it work?
Capsule Training
First, a qualified rescue team will take you through the same capsule training course that APBA racers take. You will learn to use an onboard air system, and how to safely exit a flipped boat. All driving school students walk away with capsule certification which is REQUIRED for all Tunnel Boat & 5 Litre racing.
Class Time
On Saturday morning, seasoned race drivers will lead classes teaching you what to expect, including racing terminology and tips on safety and boat handling. The Driving School staff includes:
- Mark Weber, Principal
- Mark Wheeler, Vice Principal
- Brandon Thirlby, Outboard Instructor
- Chris Fairchild, Tunnel Boat Instructor
- Dan Kanfoush, Inboard Instructor
Water Time
After you are fully trained and sufficiently learned, it’s time to gear up (helmet, lifejacket, Kevlar) and get out on the water! Piloting the boat solo, your teacher will guide and coach you via radio headset. Each lap, you’ll gain speed, skill, and confidence.
Fun Time
Racers know how to have a good time, and having fun is what the APBA is all about. After you’ve had a chance to get out on the water and experience the thrill of driving a race boat for yourself, you will get a chance on Saturday night to kick back, share stories, and meet other racers. May 19-20 is a testing weekend for all APBA racers, so you will have a chance to meet a variety of racers from many different types of racing.
More Water Time
After your first taste, you’ll be dying for more – and we will deliver. Sunday morning gives you a chance to get back out on the water for more practice laps. At this point, you will be more confident, and you’ll be having a blast. Afterwards, instructors evaluate each student, and provide certificates and other keepsakes to commemorate your driving school success! You will also receive a year’s membership to the APBA, including a subscription to Propeller Magazine.
Is It Safe?
There’s a reason APBA has been around for over 100 years. A trained rescue team will be on hand throughout the weekend, and you will be insured through one of the best programs in motorsports. Your well-being is your instructor’s top priority – and your safety will always come first.
What does it Cost?
The APBA Driving School Costs $350
What Do I Get?
- An entire weekend of race instruction
- Capsule Training & Certification
- Significant Water Time, Boat & Equipment Provided
And most importantly… The Ride of Your Life!
How Do I Sign Up?
Admission is first come, first serve, and space is limited!
Fill out the APBA Driving School Application & Follow the Instructions for Submitting
Or, you can contact one of the instructors directly, who will be more than happy to answer any question
Chris Fairchild - chris@fairchildracing.com
Dan Kanfoush - dankanfoush@yahoo.com
Mark Weber - mweber55@sbcglobal.net - P:(586) 206-8894
Mark Wheeler - mark.wheeler@wmich.edu - P (269) 387-5563