Superboats set sights on Geelong

GEELONG residents are being urged to get the best seats on the waterfront next weekend, as the nation’s fastest powerboats make their way to Corio Bay.

Round 2 of the Offshore Superboat Championships returns to Geelong on March 18-19 for two days of high-octane adrenaline-filled action.

The stars of the show – the lightning-fast, 12-metre Class One V8 Superboats are back, topping speeds over 230kmh thanks to a pair of carburettor fed, 510-cubic-inch big block derived V8s, boasting a staggering 830hp each.

Championships spokesperson John Curnow said competitors attend the event from all over the Eastern Seaboard, particularly Victorian teams.

“There’s four classes of boats that take on this event, all different horsepower limits and speeds, but it’s all amazing for people to attend, not to mention that it’s free as well,” Curnow said.

“After the exhilarating racing is finished, spectators will get the chance to inspect the powerboats up close along Cunningham Pier which is an extra treat.

“The enthusiasm of the teams is spread out to the spectators, who can connect with the racers and boats ashore for that engagement and inspiration only racing provides.

“It continues once the racing begins, for the action is close to shore, and there are plenty of amenities to also partake in during the breaks.”

The four classes include (from fastest to slowest); Class One, Supercat Outboard Class, Sport 85 Class and Sport 65 Class.

Saturday racing begins at 1pm and wraps up at 4pm. Sunday racing begins closer to midday to accommodate presentations.

The Offshore Superboat Championships have been taking place annually in Geelong for close to four decades.

“There are plenty of locations along the waterfront where spectators can watch all the action, whether that be at the Steampacket Gardens, Eastern Beach, or down the road at the Botanical Gardens, there’s plenty to see over the two days,” Curnow added.

“What the competitors are doing is really impressive and some of the most impressive water vehicles in the country are on full display.”

Round 1 of the Championships was held in Wyndham Harbour last month prior to Round 2 in Geelong.

The action next heads to Hervey Bay, Queensland, and Lake Macquarie, New South Wales for Rounds 3 and 4 in June and October respectively, where the Superboat champions will be crowned for 2023.Some of the Class One superboats can reach speeds of 230kmh.