Basic Racing - A Newbie Guide

[Silversurfer]

This looks like the most affordable way to have a go. I will be interested in people’s comments and information on basic racing.
I have tried to navigate the RYA 's website to get some additional information on what would be required and the cost. I am hoping to do a basic race near me at "Allhallows" AKA the "Shakedown" it will take place on the 24th April next year and I will be posting updates on the procedures, requirements and form filling I have to go through to achieve a entry to a race.

So far this is all I have found:

GETTING STARTED IN CIRCUIT POWERBOAT RACING - WHAT DO I NEED TO DO?
http://www.rya.org.uk/PowerBoating/Default.asp?contentId=2859333

The link says that all the information you need can be found in the notorious PB1 and PB2 booklets however a search on the site reveals NO links to afore mentions documents. When I eventually found the RULES section that it refers to, you are greeted with an Application Server error - nice one! I have emailed them about this but they don’t seem to bother fixing it!

http://www.biboa.com/pb1_index.htm Try this link for PB1 - Thanks!

Anyway if you want the PB1 and PB2 documents (any questions you ask the RYA they tell you to refer to these docs) you have to phone and have them posted on snail mail to your address. If I ever get them I will scan and upload them. Does anyone know of a working link for these online @ the moment?

From what I can gather so far you need to be a member of a club before you can do a basic you can find a list of local clubs here
http://www.rya.org.uk/Map/Search.asp?clubselect=true

Cost Wise this is what it looks like so far:
- Club membership £180 - £200
- 1-Day License to race £60
- Entry Fee £50
- Fuel & Oil to race (60 Miles) £150
- 2 x Life Jackets and helmets estimated £180
- 2 x Race Suits £200 (thanks Carl)
- ukoba memembership is £50 (thanks Carl)

My 1st Race currently costs £870

I understand that you DONT need any of the following for a basic race:
- A VHF License
- A powerboat License (£235)
- Blue Prints
- Measurement / Compliance Certificate

NOT Sure if the crash helmets have to be orange or not for the Basic?

In terms of insurance the RYA covers third party but NO ONE WILL INSURE DAMAGE TO YOUR BOAT FOR HITTING SOMEONE ELSE OR STACKING IT.

If I have any incorrect information or I am missing something please let me know!

Hope this helps for the other newbies.

Wet your appetite in the meantime with some videos - no sound :(
http://www.rya.org.uk/powerboating/offshore.asp?contentId=1997297&xref=media

All in all it’s NOT cheap and you could lose your boat - but it does look like fun!

Anyone done a basic then given up / lost the boat? Lets hear your comments!

[Johnny Rocket]

Originally posted by Silversurfer
The link says that all the information you need can be found in the notorious PB1 and PB2 booklets however a search on the site reveals NO links to afore mentions documents. You can normally download PB1 from the BIBOA web site www.biboa.com -- but it seems to be down at the moment so that might not be much help! :bang:

[Carl]

helmets do have to be orange,and you do need race suits,demon tweeks do loads,everything else is correct,ukoba memembership is 50 quid for the year i think

[Louise]

Originally posted by Johnny Rocket
it seems to be down at the moment so that might not be much help! :bang:

Fixed now! :)

P.S. Just noticed the new smilies - nice! :devil: We've been asking JK for just ONE new one for ages now!:headbang:

[Jon Fuller]

Originally posted by carly baby
helmets do have to be orange,and you do need race suits,

The rule used to say, you must have 'protective' clothing ie, overalls, that cover your arms/legs to your wrists/ankles, nothing about being a race suit, has it changed now?

We were the 'Shorts n 'T' shirt racing team'. never owned a race suit.

[Silversurfer]

I was wondering if a pair of workshop overalls would do the job (clean of course) when I saw the price of the race suit.

Adds to the excitement of the event though! And you might feel I bit of a dick if everyone else has race suits.

[Silversurfer]

Top Tip matt - saves me £150 !

1st race total now stands @ £720 :banana:

[Silversurfer]

What would be the conversion costs to 2L ? I simple want to have a go and see if I like it if not its one thing to tick off the list of things you have to do BEFORE 40! :)

[Jon Fuller]

Originally posted by Silversurfer
I was wondering if a pair of workshop overalls would do the job (clean of course)

Clean to start with, but the gusset could be soiled by the second turn :D :speechles

[Jon Fuller]

Originally posted by Silversurfer
What would be the conversion costs to 2L ? I simple want to have a go and see if I like it if not its one thing to tick off the list of things you have to do BEFORE 40! :)

As much as everyone wants to see offshore get up to speed again, I'd do a basic or two first.

You might not like it, or you might do a couple a basics and run out and buy a B23 to take on the world, either way, a taster or two won't hurt.

[Jon Fuller]

I once heard of a scheme whereby, if you entered 3 or 3 basic races, then wanted to go National, the rya would knock the accumulated 'basic licence' fees OFF the price of the National licence (for that year), this would be a huge incentive to have a go, without pissing the money away if you choose to move up to full-on racing.

And I can't see how it could harm the rya, they'd have captured a licence holder after all.

[Silversurfer]

At the moment I just want to try it and see if I like it. To be honest I am currently struggling to find someone brave enough to sit in the passenger seat with me I guess I will be pretty frightened myself during the first race don’t want to lose the boat and or stack it cant afford another one yet!

The fear factor has become more of a problem since I hit 30!
:jaw:

[Jon Fuller]

a load of polystyrene up front under the deck will stop you losing it completely.

Unless you had a 'catastrophic' failure!:aaahhh:

But people losing boats is extremely rare, and as I said, a bit of bouyancy will stop that anyways, you'll be fine!;)

[Burty]

Did the basic race in teighmouth last year, cost £100 to enter because you have to pay for your passenger as well (bet you forgot that 1) + fuel and oil.
i wore jeans and a jumper felt like a real racer in that. matt is correct you must only have something to cover bare flesh
my helmet was black with orange stickers on
your boat is scruteenered and must have the following

2Kg fire extingusher
Kill switch for both driver and passenger
a number on both boat and trailer
anchor
flares
Flags

after all this i did 2 laps before dislocating my passengers shoulder and had to stop find the doctor on board a rescue boat who then put it back in place and radioed for an ambulance which was waiting for us at the slip, where i had to beach to boat as no 1 was prepared to get wet! including me as i had trainers and jeans on:D

To be honest i was quite pleased we stopped because i'd had enough of trying to go flat out at all times.
i find i have more fun blasting around for a few minutes then stopping for a bit then going again. but thats just me.

Good luck hope i havent put you off.

[Carl]

hey silver you have got a massive truck inner tube in your bow

[Carl]

but do invest in a back brace

[Jon Fuller]

Originally posted by Burty
To be honest i was quite pleased we stopped because i'd had enough of trying to go flat out at all times.
i find i have more fun blasting around for a few minutes then stopping for a bit then going again. but thats just me.

That's a mistake a lot of people make.

It's very different having a 'dash' up the start shute with a few race boats, thinking, 'I could do this!', to running flat out for an hour or more, without being able to rest for a second.

And another thing that I think can be a shock to a new racer is, when you dash about the bay having fun, without thinking about it, you tend to run in the direction that the boat/you feels good, ie, in a head sea, or following, whatever, but when you're racing, you've gotta go whichever way the course takes you, which might be a lovely swelly diagonal sea that makes it feel very dangerous, for mebbe 10 miles! that can be a strain, and most people don't think of that till it happens.

You just need to make sure you're winning/beating a few others, so you can have the pleasure of knowing that they are probably enjoying it less than you :lol:lol:

[CB1]

Just been reading your comments about the cost to start basic racing.

You dont need to be a member of a club to race basic, so thats iust saved you £200 plus. Dont know where you got your info from, but to join UKOBA as a racing member costs £50 pp.

The total loss of a boat is very rare in racing. We had a slight misshap last season and ended up upside down. Once the boat was recovered, another story, we had the engine flashed back up within 1hr. Ok we lost a few electrical items, but hey sh** happens

[CB1]

You have to drive the boat to your abillity and the conditions. If you got a huge cheque book, big balls or no brain yo are gonna hurt the boat. Just look at the V24's. Cuz they are harrnessed and have a canopy they drive their boats to distruction, look at the carnage at Ramsgate!!

[CB1]

Racing is FUN, but ask anybody who races the best parts are the start, the finish and the time in the bar with like minded people having a fu**ing good drink!!!

[CB1]

Forgot to add. Talking BOLLO***

[Silversurfer]

Originally posted by CB1
Just been reading your comments about the cost to start basic racing.

You dont need to be a member of a club to race basic, so thats iust saved you £200 plus. Dont know where you got your info from, but to join UKOBA as a racing member costs £50 pp.


Saw the need to be a member of a club in the National Offshore Power Boating Handbook. Looked at how much it was to be a member of "Allhallows" nearest club and got the price from that. So I can simply join UKOBA as a racing member for £50! And thats OK? Great, what about my navigator does he have to pay £50 as well?

Thanks for the info guys - one more question i have two new life jackets like the picture attcahed not the same make manual gas inflation and yellow on the inside are these valid for the basic race?

Cant believ you dont have to do a test or something before they let you race does this mean that due to the number of inexperienced drivers in the basic race more accidents happen in this particular category?

[Silversurfer]

Originally posted by Matt
That's the most important bit. :D

Do you all stop over night then so you can get pissed?:cheers:

[Ben]

Originally posted by Jonny
That's a mistake a lot of people make.

It's very different having a 'dash' up the start shute with a few race boats, thinking, 'I could do this!', to running flat out for an hour or more, without being able to rest for a second.

And another thing that I think can be a shock to a new racer is, when you dash about the bay having fun, without thinking about it, you tend to run in the direction that the boat/you feels good, ie, in a head sea, or following, whatever, but when you're racing, you've gotta go whichever way the course takes you, which might be a lovely swelly diagonal sea that makes it feel very dangerous, for mebbe 10 miles! that can be a strain, and most people don't think of that till it happens.

You just need to make sure you're winning/beating a few others, so you can have the pleasure of knowing that they are probably enjoying it less than you :lol:lol:

Precisely. Glad I didn't log on till a bit later tonight. You saved me from writing what would have been the same post.

[Silversurfer]

Originally posted by carly baby
but do invest in a back brace

Like body builders?

Sh*t Burty "i did 2 laps before dislocating my passengers shoulder " I am trying to get me brother to join me !

[Silversurfer]

Originally posted by Ben
Precisely. Glad I didn't log on till a bit later tonight. You saved me from writing what would have been the same post.

Reffering to orginal post good point suppose practice makes perfect I was always taught to head into the waves at right angles but you cant do that on a circuit can you. What did you guys do just go out and practice in rough weather?

[Ben]

Originally posted by Silversurfer
Reffering to orginal post good point suppose practice makes perfect I was always taught to head into the waves at right angles but you cant do that on a circuit can you. What did you guys do just go out and practice in rough weather?

It's a kind of strange thing. Certainly you practice and often in rough conditions. You just don't tend to do it for the length of time you do it when racing.

You have two choices once the race begins and conditions are not exactly enjoyable. You can say this is really is no fun and stop or you can continue. Those who stop are pleasure boaters with fast boats. Those who continue are powerboat racers.

[JBP]

Originally posted by Silversurfer
Saw the need to be a member of a club in the National Offshore Power Boating Handbook. Looked at how much it was to be a member of "Allhallows" nearest club and got the price from that. So I can simply join UKOBA as a racing member for £50! And thats OK? Great, what about my navigator does he have to pay £50 as well?

Thanks for the info guys - one more question i have two new life jackets like the picture attcahed not the same make manual gas inflation and yellow on the inside are these valid for the basic race?

Cant believ you dont have to do a test or something before they let you race does this mean that due to the number of inexperienced drivers in the basic race more accidents happen in this particular category?

Depending on where you're starting from 'age wise' the 1L K1000 (P16 + 60hp Merc) offers racing for 15-30 year olds at both basic and national levels and you don't even need your own boat.

www.wandaoffshore.co.uk

Club membership is £30pa, licence is approx £50pa, though the catch is you have to go through the training but a full national season could cost in the region of £3k all in, just need to find your own way to the races and the accomodation.

K1000 will be at Allhallows in April for their 1st national event.

Oh and you need a racing 'vest' not inflatable life jacket, www.k4plus.com has them.

[simon johnston]

Originally posted by CB1
You have to drive the boat to your abillity and the conditions. If you got a huge cock, big balls or no brain yo are gonna hurt the boat. i new i was doin sumit rong !:dizzy:

[Jon Fuller]

Which have you got then Si? I assume it's not the huge cock, or the big balls.........guess that answers it then :drain:

[Jon Fuller]

Originally posted by Ben
You can say this is really is no fun and stop or you can continue. Those who stop are pleasure boaters with fast boats. Those who continue are powerboat racers.

Well said!
The video I posted a while back displays this comment very well I think.

John Clarke & len Ferguson (http://www.boatmadforum.co.uk/videos/Main%20event/Clarke-Ferguson.wmv)

[Silversurfer]

Guess you have to suck it and se then. Thats one of my favourite videos!

[Silversurfer]

"Oh and you need a racing 'vest' not inflatable life jacket,
www.k4plus.com has them."!

Gutted just brought those life jackets as well :( is there anything else thats legal and a bit more reasonably priced than the £200 a piece option?

:jaw:

[Jon Fuller]

Aren't the Grabners cheaper than that?

We used 'Hutchwilco'

Note the mandatory race suits :D

[Jon Fuller]

Actually, what you can see there is 'our own' extra padding!

We tended to keep our 'winter pelt' quite late into the racing season.

[Captain Chaos]

Not sitting on the fence......but i honestly dont remember.....I got 2 "approved" jackets from Tony when i bought my 1st batch of stuff for the phantom. really nice.......I know they where a lot less than the RRP.

and they are illumo orange!

[Carl]

you can use the jacket from the zap cat guys in shamrock quay i think i paid just over the 100 quid each mark,and your co pilot will need to join a club aswell,but poss not as a full race member,so will be a little cheaper

[Silversurfer]

anyone got any links for the Jackets in return I offer some of my reaserch on the subject matter ;)

[Carl]

www.zapcat-racing.com

[Silversurfer]

Cheers Carl

[Carl]

and also a cheapo intercom ,from maplin electronics 15 quid i think,its a motor bike one ,its not brill ,but will last a race or 2 and no wiring involved ,i still got my old one you are welcome to have

[Silversurfer]

will take the old one - nice one! Will buy you a pint! I guess any crash helemet for a motor bike will do? Also to keep the boat number and save the cost of new stickers should i re-register it with the rya?

[Carl]

you can keep the same nos and because its basic you dont have to register it,and motorbike helmets are fine,just get them painted bright oranage with the boat race number on them,at the top of the helmet so you can read the nos from behind you

[Louise]

Originally posted by carly baby
motorbike helmets are fine

I'm no racer so feel free to ignore me but I've heard motorcycle helmets are not suitable for marine use because of the 'bucket effect'. Does this apply to racing or just RIBs?! As a wise person on this forum said not long ago, your head is the most precious part of your body so why risk it? Your choice, of course! ;)

[Carl]

very true but depends on what helmet you go for as in weight shape and the type of visor

[HIM]

Silversurfer
Call Alan Goodwin I know he will lend you Helmets and Jackets.
No problem. 07769586160.

[Silversurfer]

You sure? Who is? Would he sell me some second hand ones?

[Ben]

Alan Goodwin owns 'Mr. Noisy' and he will lend you the lifejackets and helmets if 'Him' says so.

[Silversurfer]

Excellent will give Alan a call then!

[RHINO]

if you get stuck i have spare race jackets, helmets. and intercom,that you can lend,as long as it gets another boat in the race.

[Silversurfer]

That’s the spirit Rhino / HIM will you both be there at the Allhallows race? Thanks again for all your help and offers! :D

[CB1]

I also have a spare hutchwilco and a shoei helmet that available to loan. Ur more than welcome.

[RHINO]

we will be at allhallows, just remind me the week before, and i will take whatever you need with me.if there is anybody else thinking of racing ,and in need of advice, or equipment just let us know,we will all rally round and help. the race is on the water,not in the pits.

[JamesM]

Originally posted by RHINO
the race is on the water,not in the pits.

:up: ski racers take note :D

[Cookee]

I've got a spare helmet and a Lifeline lifejacket (small) although I won't be at Allhallows I will be at all of the Nationals and possibly the Feb Poole (not the brass monkey!) if that helps anyone?

[HIM]

Hi Silversurfer
Yes I hope to be at Allhallows family permitting!!
But call AG if you need the items.

[Silversurfer]

ALLHALLOWS BASIC IS ON! Great news! cant wait to do my first basic and meet up with some fellow nutters!

Not looking forward to coming in last and really hoping for fair weather. However it looks like its finally going to happen - I am going to die!

Reviewing the offers of a loan of lifejackets two required both medium fit or willing to purchase at the right price now that the race is on can anyone confirm attendance at the event and any offers on a loan / sale?

Cheers :D

[JBP]

[i]

Not looking forward to coming in last and really hoping for fair weather. However it looks like its finally going to happen - I am going to die!
Cheers :D [/B]

Only if we put some of the K1000 1L out there and they beat you too!!! :drain:

[HIM]

Hi
I offered helmet and jacket for Allhallows. Still available but I am not able to go now family commitments. Items can be collected around Portsmouth. Call me and I can meet up.
HIM

[Silversurfer]

Thanks HIM I remeber you offered them last time thank you. However CB1 is going to sort me out i loan for my first race this is good as he will be at ALLHALLOWS all weekend.

Note for the diary getting very excited about all this now got the helemets and jackets on loan and the waether is looking good this weekend so I am going to do some jobs to get the boat up to spec!

[HIM]

Hi Silversurfer
Good luck.....enjoy....there is nothing quite like it!!!!!!!

HIM

[Silversurfer]

Getting ready for it now! Waxed her up at the weekend and tightened up the bolts ordered some hobby suits from Demon Tweeks and a fuel cut of switch, got some “power tune” to feed her at weekend . Picked up a couple of knifes (felt a bit dodgy) havnt got the whistles yet though. Anyone know where you get the retirement flags from?

[Burty]

Originally posted by Silversurfer
Anyone know where you get the retirement flags from?
any privite nursing home dude:D

[Jon Fuller]

A lump of broom handle, with some cloth stapled on it, thats all most teams do.

[Cookee]

Make sure they are clearly orange - if they're a bit red some scrutineers have a fit!

[JBP]

Most water ski shops do a 'ski flag' as it is called nice orange colour and only a couple of quid.

[Silversurfer]

Cheers JBP think i have located one of those here http://www.craigcohoon.co.uk/

Ordered the helmets today got a some off ebay any tips on respraying them orange.

CB1 decided to buy some helmets as want to practice driving with them on. But still need some race approved race vests x2 if thats ok. (Just in case you where wondering why i was buying helmets after your kind offer!) As long as I can paint the helemets OK we should be fine with the ones i brought!

Filled in my race entry form today and sent the cheque in the post!

[Cookee]

Make sure the helmets are not plastic - you can't paint them, only the fibreglass ones are safe to paint.

[Silversurfer]

The helmets arrived today, fibreglass ones!

Next questions what paint? Car paint from Halfords? Primer first car paint again? Do you remove the laquer first or just primer straight on to it?

Thanks guys - need to paint them orange

[Taz]

Hey a few questions does your boat get checked before the race ie wiring fuel etc?
Do they let you run with trim tabs jack plates etc?

[Cookee]

Taz - Jack plates are ok but trim tabs are for RIBs only - you might get away with them for the basic part though - best ask Adam Younger or the RYA for confirmation before you turn up and get it in writing!

Silversurfer - Paint them just like a car or anything else - it'll need preparing properly first.

[Silversurfer]

Got the primer on the orange seems far thinner though I am NOT a good sprayer is there a thicker (i.e. less runny) paint than your average car paint the primer seems thicker and didnt run at all!

Also do i need a fog horn? If so will a "horn in can" type do?

Cheers

BTW nearly finished making the flag this is like "Blue Peter" NOT powerboat racing! :D

[Hydrostream]

If they are fiberglass helmets why not spray them with gelcoat, you can sand out any runs, orange peel and buff them up nice. Also no chance of a reaction with the grp, making them brittle!

[Silversurfer]

Does that come in a spray can?

[Cookee]

Horn in a can is fine - Gel coat doesn't come in a can though!

[Tony Davis]

Originally posted by Cookee
Gel coat doesn't come in a can though!

Yes it does, although it is a 20kg plastic can!:D

[Cookee]

Smartass!

[Tony Davis]

Originally posted by Cookee
Smartass! :hugegrin:

How's your new laptop?

[Cookee]

Good thanks - why?

[Silversurfer]

Cheers Ton! Just discovered t-shirt printing Boat name on everything then :)

[Hydrostream]

Originally posted by Cookee
Gel coat doesn't come in a can though!

No but you can put it in one!!!

Get your gel, thin it with patchaid and put it into a touch up bottle. It's a jar that screws onto a spray can containing only air, you mix up whatever you need to spray put it in the jar and shoot it. Great for doing small repairs or little jobs like this and they're only about a tenner.
I forget the name on them I'll have a look in work tomorrow.

[Hydrostream]

They're called preval
Here's their website,
http://www.preval-sprayer.de/html/startseite.html

prety handy to have one around

http://www.autobodystore.com/Preval_Aerosol.jpg

[Silversurfer]

Helmets nearly finished now waiting for the stickers today then a coat a laquer will post some pics soon! Justrealised need an Admiralty Chart: - River Thames and Sea Reach No. 1185. Hopefully it will arrive in time for the race!

[Silversurfer]

Well - Just got home after a days racing. Started well and managed 7 and 1/4 laps before we blew two pistons!

It was great fun but looks to have been an even more expensive day than expected!

Have to agree with Tazs post on another thread regarding Bat Boats and Phantoms if you want to win and go really fast the Bat boats are in a class of their own. It was almost like the differance between k-class and a phantom.

If you want to race get a Bat Boat those things are awsome and Sh*t all over every thing else with the same 2l engine on it.

Dont think i will be racing again. To be competitive you need a Bat Boat and you cant take your mates out in that on a summers afternoon.

Loved the feeling though despite blowing up the engine.

Short clip here more to follow: http://www.stewartwatkins.com/downloads/allhallows1.avi

BTW anyone know of somone cheap but good who can rebuild my engine? Got one quote in and its expensive stuff!

[BluFin]

Glad you enjoyed the day mate, sorry about the motor, should be an easy fix though very easy the xr2 to work on.

Out of intrest, what was the winning speed for 2 ltr
(you know where I'm going with this those who know me !)

[Thunderbird Racing]

Hi was there managed 8.5 mph on the gps with my backdraft. probably dirty sat in the bottom of the tank. funny how those this always happen when your out at muster. However hats off to Ian stirling in his Phantom 3rd place and still setting it up. got a few in the batboat world to sit up. if there are any chicanes in the course like the promise Ian's gonna get a further advantage looking at how tight he can cut around the bouys. Well done to all who got out was a pretty good event. Torquay should be brilliant. TV will be there and possibly a Helicopter if we can raise some more sponsorship.

[Adam]

Originally posted by Silversurfer


If you want to race get a Bat Boat those things are awsome and Sh*t all over every thing else with the same 2l engine on it.





There are other ways for sure! But then again you might not want a multihull.

Anyway just wait to you have a big following sea - they don't like it up them!!

[Wayne Kerr]

Originally posted by Silversurfer
Well - Just got home after a days racing. Started well and managed 7 and 1/4 laps before we blew two pistons!

Sorrey to hear about your misfortune around turn buoy B.
Take a look at the lap times, we were 1 second behind you on lap 2 (1.8ltr - A8), I think we got passed you at one stage just before turn buoy C, but I know what it's like first time in competition.
You soon got the hang of it though, you were past us and away before to long, 26s on lap 6!:bolt:

Then the big bang !!!!

Don't let it put you off ,,,,,,,,,, fix it and GO AGAIN

Good looking rig also, well done.

PM'd you re: Big Bang.

[Taz]

Man i felt well left out watching you all looks great some real nice boats out there well done to all.

:cheers:

[Ciao]

Originally posted by BluFin
Glad you enjoyed the day mate, sorry about the motor, should be an easy fix though very easy the xr2 to work on.

Out of intrest, what was the winning speed for 2 ltr
(you know where I'm going with this those who know me !) :laugh:

[Silversurfer]

Big THANKS out to Rhino and CB! for lending us Lifejackets on the Day and well done to them both 1st and 2nd I believe!

[BluFin]

So how were the joints monday morning ? Could ya reach the alarm clock :lol:lol:

[Silversurfer]

Back hurts a bit today but not too bad. Life just seems a bit slow and boring after those 7 1/4 laps of complete madness, chaos and adrenalin! Beats sky diving which was previously top of my list.

[Jon Fuller]

Originally posted by Thunderbird Racing
However hats off to Ian stirling in his Phantom 3rd place and still setting it up.

What Phantom was Ian Stirling in?....was this C-11?

Does anyone have any pics of the event?

[Adam]

Originally posted by Johnson
What Phantom was Ian Stirling in?....was this C-11?

Does anyone have any pics of the event?

Picture Ian supplied from the Brass Monkey race.
Adam

[Jon Fuller]

It'd be nice to see Ian 'spank' a few BB's (and multihulls) when he gets things together (in his ski boat!) :D

Bring it on Mr Stirling!

[Adam]

Nearly agree with you!

I think it would be good for racing if he is succesful. We need a few more hulls out there that are readily available.

There is certainly room for a new sportsboat in the market that could offer race and sports ability - at reasonable cost - I think?

Perhaps around 23', maybe stepped, not winged - I better get back to the computer......

[Silversurfer]

I have some photos Not very good in this zip pack here. Friend has loads and some digital cam corder stuff will post the goodies when i get them. In the mean time here are some poorer shots of the event.

http://www.stewartwatkins.com/downloads/allhallows.zip

Stewart

[Silversurfer]

And the winner is ...

http://www.stewartwatkins.com/downloads/batboat.jpg

[Carl]

anymore video footage

[Taz]

I have loads if i knew how to get it on the computer:tea:

[Jon]

Hi Silversurfer,

Sorry to see the pikeys were at that meeting.

Plush caravans though.

Did anyone loose anything during the event?

[Carl]

yeah a good nights sleep and about 400 quid:lol:lol:

[Jon]

:lol:lol:

[Silversurfer]

Originally posted by Taz
I have loads if i knew how to get it on the computer:tea:

Ready to help

[Silversurfer]

Hi all some more pics and videos of the day

[Silversurfer]

Boat running well above !

[Silversurfer]

Retirement :( Due to engine failure

[Silversurfer]

The damage :jaw:

[Silversurfer]

And not to finish on a bad note some videos of us running well.

The Start:
http://www.stewartwatkins.com/downloads/allhallows/DSCF0648.avi

Phantom Revolution Over Takes!
http://www.stewartwatkins.com/downloads/allhallows/DSCF0649.avi

http://www.stewartwatkins.com/downloads/allhallows/DSCF0650.avi

If you still want more I have put together the best of the photos in this pack here:
Feel free to post cant be bothered to resize all the images for boat mad.

http://www.stewartwatkins.com/downloads/allhallows/good.zip

Enjoy :D

[Matt]

Do you know why the engine failed?

[Silversurfer]

Looks like it ran lean, I have no idea, current theories range from depending on who you talk to:

- Fuel Oil Mixture ( I am religious about this so dont agree)

- Water Cooling - Seem alright to me

- Over Reving - Maybe I was bracing myself off the foot throttle at some points when offshore to stay in the boat! came out of my seat twice!

Its going to be repaired next week but I would also like to know why it failed - Old age?

Anyways costing loads to fix and even though I would really like to continue racing I simple can not afford it and dont want to screw up my pleasure boat.

[Carl]

what oil are you using?

[Matt]

Surely you could find a good, used, powerhead, or even complete motah for not too much?

Got any close ups of the carnage?

[Matt]

Is most of the damage to the piston crown? Looks like a pile of mush in the cylinder?
What octane fuel were you using?

[Silversurfer]

Oil is Mercury Premium Plus.

Fuel Shell Opimax

Dont really fancy seconf hand pistons to be honeyts bottom two each side head can hopefully be machined

[Matt]

Wasn't suggesting 2nd hand pistons - just that there's enough complete, running powerheads around it'd probably be as cheap for you to get a complete powerhead as it'll cost to sort the current one out.

[Jon Fuller]

Most common problems used to be:

Poor water supply (motor too high/no remote pick-up)

Incorrect oil, merc high perf, a must.

Or most common, weak fuel/air mixture. I can't remember jet sizes as I'm very old, but make absolutely certain you're not running lean, it's a killer, and you aint going for a world championship!!

All just MHO.

[Carl]

so in conclusion,i think you pulled to many revs with the wrong oil in. i would get your powerhead repaired,it will be cheaper than getting another one

[Silversurfer]

Premium Plus is no good then?

I am getting the engine repaired Geoff is having it this weekend

[Silversurfer]

World championship it felt like it was! worth it at the time! and too many revs -
Well we did go for it ! Dont like seeeing boats pass me!

Regarding the revs, their was no way you could look at the rev guage and deal with the wash and waves at the same time.

Like I said I did let off at first over the waves but we lost speed and on many an occasion the accelarator was just something else to brace your self off as the boat launched off another wave whilst you tried to stay in the boat, I nearly got thrown out twice! :D

Oh well will fix it , if the navigator will pay for half of the losses in future I may well race again.

[Carl]

you should race again ,as you have all the kit now,just do some local ones to you ,and just take it a little easier

[Ciao]

Exactly, go and sign up for a few credit cards get about £15 k credit and blow the lot this season...you will have some more videos ...fantastic memories ..and maybe a few pewter pots!

Now thats racing!

[Matt]

Why should he, it's not his boat, and it's not his right foot on the throttle breaking things. :D If ya crashed yer car and he was a passenger, would you expect him to pay?

Originally posted by Silversurfer
Oh well will fix it , if the navigator will pay for half of the losses in future I may well race again.

[Matt]

Shit! I'm not sure I want to know you. It's already dangerous enough if JF is around when my credit card's out.

Hang on - just remembered I've still got JF'S cheque book. Silversurfer, who shall I make the cheque for fixing yer engine to - call it boatmad sponsorship. :D :well:

Originally posted by Ciao
Exactly, go and sign up for a few credit cards get about £15 k credit and blow the lot this season...you will have some more videos ...fantastic memories ..and maybe a few pewter pots!

Now thats racing!

[Silversurfer]

Originally posted by Ciao
Exactly, go and sign up for a few credit cards get about £15 k credit and blow the lot this season...you will have some more videos ...fantastic memories ..and maybe a few pewter pots!

Now thats racing!

Mr Negatiive why dont you go and join some stamp collecting forum instead?

[Ciao]

:laugh:
Or perhaps Silversurfer should lodge a claim against Allhallows Yacht Club for allowing him race and subsequently break his engine!

[Jon Fuller]

Originally posted by Matt
If ya crashed yer car and he was a passenger, would you expect him to pay?

I would! and by the way, when YOU were passenger in my Paj the other day, the service light came on, so I need your bank acc details please! 20k should sort it out.

ta

[Silversurfer]

Originally posted by Matt
Why should he, it's not his boat, and it's not his right foot on the throttle breaking things. :D If ya crashed yer car and he was a passenger, would you expect him to pay?

My brother was an excellent navigator and great to have by my side - Howvere I understand that many of the navigators do contribute to the costs. My younger brother is not in a position to be able to contribute. There lies the problem its a lot of money for me to ear mark for blowing things up every couple of weeks, especially if I have to foot the bill myself. Personally I would prefer to by a bigger house!

[Matt]

Can I write you a cheque?

[Ciao]

Originally posted by Silversurfer
Mr Negatiive why dont you go and join some stamp collecting forum instead?

Negative??? I cleaned my pewter AYC tankards the other day!

[Jon Fuller]

Originally posted by Matt
Hang on - just remembered I've still got JF'S cheque book.

Theif!

You're fkkn banned!

[Silversurfer]

Originally posted by Ciao
:laugh:
Or perhaps Silversurfer should lodge a claim against Allhallows Yacht Club for allowing him race and subsequently break his engine!

Allhallows where great actually I can not praise their work enough in organising a race and how help ful they wher to a newbie.

I was prepared to lose everything (boat and all) as that is the terms you have to accept to do a race. This was a price I was prepared to pay to enjoy the thrill of something I have always wanted to do.

I have nothing against Allhallows or anyone else regarding the engine redesign. What your point ?

Where you an abused child?

[Ciao]

yeah i was, my dad made me navigate for him in a phantom beat me black and blue every weekend.

[Silversurfer]

[QUOTE]Originally posted by Ciao
yeah i was, my dad made me navigate for him in a phantom beat me black and blue every weekend. [/QUOTE

I am sorry to hear that.

So whats really your story what did racing cost you? That you got you so upset?

[Jon Fuller]

Originally posted by Ciao
yeah i was, my dad made me navigate for him in a phantom

You were lucky!! some fathers made their sons navigate in a Rings :aaahhh:

[Silversurfer]

Originally posted by Johnson
You were lucky!! some fathers made their sons navigate in a Rings :aaahhh:

I do know somone whos father tried to navigate their ring apparently it hurt a lot!
:hump:

[Ciao]

Originally posted by Silversurfer
[QUOTE]Originally posted by Ciao
yeah i was, my dad made me navigate for him in a phantom beat me black and blue every weekend. [/QUOTE

I am sorry to hear that.

So whats really your story what did racing cost you? That you got you so upset?

The point is I am truly sorry for the damage done to your power head. But it happens. Racing is expensive.
The older guys on the board can probably list 30 or guys who have gone bust due to their passion.
Even a basic down at Allhallows puts far more strain on boat and engine, than everyday ‘blatting’ about the bay.
You as the driver owner have to make a choice whether you want to pay the price to enjoy the most awesome sport in the world.

[Matt]

Well said!

Originally posted by Ciao
....the most awesome sport in the world.

[Ciao]

[/QUOTE] So whats really your story what did racing cost you? That you got you so upset? [/B][/QUOTE]

As for how much we have spent is irrelevant, we have fond memories of racing in a sport that most people can only dream of.

Will always be very grateful to the late BluFin senior for getting us into the sport.

[Silversurfer]

Agreed on "(one of the)....the most awesome sport(s) in the world."

The racing was more "awsome" than sky diving, however I also love surfing and at least thats free and just as dangerous in some locations.

I didnt actually mean what did it cost you in finance terms 9 it would be rude to ask!). I guessed something had gone horribly wrong as you seemed so scarastic in your earlier posts.

However you referance to "30 or guys who have gone bust due to their passion"
is some what worrying.

Fortunatley I dont think I would risk everything for a boat race not financially anyway. But as this thread is entitled a newbie guide I thik its important to pass on the experience to other people who like me may be interested in trying out this fun and exciting sport competetively.

The ideal of a basic race is that it is as inexpensive as possible. The reality is that the words "Race" and "inexpensive" dont really go together. Be it financially or otherwise.

I am glad i did the race what ever it cost me, I am howvere not prepared to let powerboat racing ruin me finacially now or in the future.

So back to work on that bonus!

BTW Can I thank everyone for all the help and advice they have offered me over the past few months.

[Matt]

Wuss!! :D :D :D

Originally posted by Silversurfer
I am not prepared to let powerboat racing ruin me finacially though!

[Ciao]

Could be an interesting new thread though..people who have done their dough Powerboat Racing - seriously I remember one guy hanging himself after a race down at Fowey -although I am unsure they were connected events...........

[Ciao]

Originally posted by Johnson
As much as everyone wants to see offshore get up to speed again, I'd do a basic or two first.

You might not like it, or you might do a couple a basics and run out and buy a B23 to take on the world, either way, a taster or two won't hurt.

John can I have tomorrow nights lottery numbers please?!

[Taz]

Silver surfer whens da boat back on the water?

[BluFin]

Looks like you can do lots of Damage Skydiving !!

http://www.hedges-uk.com/joke/Parach.mpeg

[Silversurfer]

Originally posted by Taz
Silver surfer whens da boat back on the water?

@ least a week possibly two :( tides out this weekend though

[Taz]

Dont bother me dude im going out 2mo eve its gonna be hot hot hot!!!

[Silversurfer]

Got some more pics from Allhallows this time from someone who knows how to use a zoom!

[Silversurfer]

1

[Silversurfer]

2

[Silversurfer]

3

[Silversurfer]

4

[Silversurfer]

5

[Dan]

Originally posted by Johnson
You were lucky!! some fathers made their sons navigate in a Rings :aaahhh:

Why do you think I called mine badly bruised!!!:cheers: :drink: :brown:

[Silversurfer]

The damage was worst than first thought looks like I am getting a new drop on engine. Thanks to Ocean Racing for sorting me out!

[Thunderbird Racing]

Fantastiic news Silver, don't give in. last year i had a budget of £8k and it cost me over £16 by the end of the season and i lost the boat too. started afresh this year and hopefully no engine probs at Torquay reckon it will cost more this year and i'm skint already but as most racers we all find something to get by or try to help each other out. Last year was worth it and and a few trophies to show on the mantlepiece and some good piccies. stay with it !

[Silversurfer]

Got the boat back yesterday engine looks great new powerhead carbs full new top half engine water system overhauled as well gear box xghecked and oil replaced "Ocean Racing" did a great job (1 week to replace the stuff) and even threw in a new engine tray havnt used it yet but it looks brillent. Running it in on Saturday for 7 hours then opening her up on Sunday. More HP too apparently.

Whilst on the subject of trays does anyone know or have a cowling to fit my flat horizontal tray rather than the ones that slope backwards towards the rear of the engine.

My existing cover appears to be made of plastic rather than fibre glass?

Pics below

[Silversurfer]

Or do you know aht compund you use to repair splits in this type of plastic. Tried resin but it cracks out? As the hood has some flex

[Carl]

excellent news,now just one last thing,go and get some proper oil.......................and if geoff sold you one of the last 2 boxes of esso,hes a dead man:hatchet:

[Silversurfer]

Couldnt afford the oil but was going to buy some. Eating rice crispies for the rest of the month (back to the student life)got home the boiler had gone (PCB) washing machines knackered too. Well thats my three things for a while touch wood.

[Jon Fuller]

Good luck Mr Surfer, you'll be racing again before you know it! (take the advice on the Merc oil)