Hydroplane Race Cities – Expansion Interest Continues to Grow

We’ve had considerable conversation lately about the value that would be brought to the sport of Unlimited Hydroplane Racing by expanding the number of cities anointed as race sites. More races with more boats at more cities watched by more spectators is nothing but good.

Fortunately, more good news exists about expansion.

Last week, a story was published in the Hillsboro, Ohio TimesGazette.com called “Hydroplane Races Returning to Rocky Fork Lake.” The race is scheduled for September 15 and 16. This in itself is encouraging in that we have ongoing efforts by Frantz in Arkansas and a rumored effort being mounted in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Now, the good people of Ohio are causing a wake.

And we should be happy for them!

What’s different in this case is racing in Hillsboro will be more of a “return” rather than an “expansion.” The article cites the effort to bring back racing after it was gone for a year. What’s unclear is whether this event will be an exhibition, which would be the odds-on guess. If anyone knows more details, please weigh in. Any background information would help our friends in Arkansas and in Idaho.

The most encouraging part of this story, though, is the financial connection. I had an Economics professor in college that used to always say, “people respond to incentives.” The Ohio story quotes the interest expressed by the Highland County Convention and Visitors Bureau. This is where the incentives should be – bring events, people, and money to the area and the area wins.

We had a great comment by Jim Simpson in “Selecting a Race Site” as part of the Boat Book. He talked extensively about economic realities and the challenges that come with the need for deep-pocketed sponsors. Remember, the hiatus in Ohio stemmed from ongoing financial problems.

This is yet another example of Unlimited Hydroplane Racing having Damn Smart Fans! Thank you for your insights, Jim.


So what’s next?

I am working on the next chapter of the Boat Book, related to planning for legal protection and financial structures in the planning phase for bringing a race to town. In the future, a related section on this topic – the financial incentives, challenges and benefits will be attacked.

For now, let the Unlimited Hydroplane Racing community know if you hear of any other communities looking to bring racing home. Better yet, tell them to check in here and help us help them!

Dave

 

 


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