I've known of jetboats for years. Developed in New Zealand in the 1950's for use on that country's fast-flowing, shallow rivers, they've become a favorite all over the world for recreational use, as well as for life-saving and the like. Their water-jet propulsion units are now common in vehicles like the Sea-Doo.
However, I wasn't aware that there are races for these boats. The video below is very entertaining, with as many crashes, bangs and flips as most motor circuits could wish for! I've no idea where the meeting was held, though. Can anyone identify the location and/or country?
Spectacular stuff! I'd like to attend one of those race meetings in person.
Peter
I've watched it on TV, and it always seemed to be held in Australia.
ReplyDeleteI have a funny jet boat story.... perhaps one day over a cold one :-)
You can replace the prop on an outboard motor with an impeller and get similar results. I've a friend that has done that on his fishing boat for use on shallow rivers and streams.
ReplyDeleteThe only danger is sucking up rocks and jamming the impeller. He did that once and broke the shaft---killed the engine hard.
Its called jet sprint racing, also invented in New Zealand. The races are mainly held in New Zealand and Australia, although there are some in the USA, I think around Washington state.
ReplyDeleteThe boats are impressive as well with the top class boats having engines putting out up to 1500 horse power.
WOW! I've seen it in Aus and NZ, and heard about it in Nevada also.
ReplyDeleteLes Schwab tires, Red Hook Ale, indicators that this happened up here in the NorthWest USA. VERY COOL!!!. Thy don't spend much time in the water though.....
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