Full Throttle Fun - June 2001

Key West, FL -
Speed. Pure, simple, unadulterated speed. That's the heart and soul of Super Boat racing, and the reason why this relatively new sport has gained such an impressive, and loyal, following.Put the race in the stunning waters off Key West and you have the makings of a great spectator event- the 9th Annual Key West American Super Boat Racing Series, which runs June 8-11, 2001.

At full throttle, these Super Boats race along the shimmering aquamarine waters of Key West at speeds of up to 150 miles an hour.

Not only is the weather and water almost guaranteed to be perfect on race day- no small consideration at the speeds these boats travel- but Key West offers excellent sight lines for spectators. In fact, there is an anchorage to the south of the racecourse where you can anchor your boat practically in the midst of the race!

If you're going to watch the race from the shore, try Truman Annex. It has some of the best viewing spots around, and generally has a party-type atmosphere. These Super Boats have become something of a local passion, and the crowds at the races are vocal and excited as they watch their favorites speed past.

At full throttle, these Super Boats race along the shimmering aquamarine waters of Key West at speeds of up to 150 miles an hour, and the noise can be deafening- just another plus to die-hard fans. This sport is an all-consuming sensory overload, with screaming engines, cascading sheets of water, boats blurring past at breakneck speed, and the intoxicating smell of fuel and exhaust.

Truman Annex is also the location of the wet and dry pit areas. These, as their titles imply, are where the Super Boats are prepped for the races, either while in the water or out. Just as in car racing, the real story is told here, in the pits. This is where you'll find the true fans, talking with the drivers and the crews, discussing tactics, boat design, past performance, and horsepower.

To make it into the pit areas, you'll need to purchase a ticket- call Truman Annex for more information.

Organizers are expecting over 150 boats this year in four classes- Super Boat-Pro, Stock A-class, Manufacturers, and Local. Race lengths vary- Super Boat-Pro will run 16 laps, or about 96 miles; Stock A-class are going for 14 laps (85 miles, give or take); Manufacturers class will do 10 laps for about 61 miles; and those in the Local class will run 6 laps for around 40 miles.

Even if you're not a racing boat fan, try to make it to the Super Boat races. These machines are impressive in and of themselves,
and the scenery is breathtaking!