|
                 
Schlagel Marine
208-921-1214
Get
USSBA Gear!
Order
Photos and MORE!
TAKE A VIRTUAL BOAT RIDE!!!
Email to the Webmaster
| |
News
|
USSBA News
Goodbye old friend
Track leased to private party - Motocross to
take over
By Jim DeFord
RICHLAND, Washington (August 18, 2007) — Yes. The
rumors are true. August 18, 2007, was the last sprint boat
_small.JPG) race
at the Horn Rapids ORV Park Richland track. The city of Richland recently
leased the ORV park to a third-party owner and they will take over operation
over the track that Tri-Cities Watersports created effective immediately.
Our track is being converted to a moto-cross track probably as I write this.
Their first event is September 22.
Tri-Cities Watersports (TCW) was created out of the group of people that
were running the yearly Water Follies event for the hydroplanes. That was 17
years ago. Also effective as of August 18, 2007, was Tri-Cities Watersports
last official act.
It was a good run. No one can deny that. These ultra-dedicated folks have
run drag boats, to pylon racing, to drag boat racing and sprint boats.
When I first met Dan Penwell—head of the TCW—back in 2003, one of the first
things we discussed was the possibility of Saturday Night Racing. There was
power at the track and all he needed were some lights.
And in late 2006 TCW acquired lights from an old baseball facility. During
the off-season many of the teams, TCW, even Mary and I, volunteered time to
help setup the lights for the 2007 racing season.
What a huge success! The best crowds ever in the history of the track
appeared at the three final races at the facility. A little too late.
Cindy Penwell announced what many of us already knew, that August 18th was
indeed the last race at Richland. Yes, it was sad, but we (TCW & the USSBA)
went out with a bang. The biggest crowds ever. Finally having lights for
Saturday night racing. It was a great accomplishment by all the people
involved. Everyone can walk away proud and even when we pass by the track
and see little two-wheelers jumping around like little bugs at the track it
will always belong to TCW and the USSBA.
_small.JPG) Many
of us have coined the track, Danny’s House, or Penwell Pond. But, whatever
it ends up being called, no one has put more of their heart and soul into
this facility than Dan and Cindy Penwell.
But, kudos go to everyone at TCW. And I’d name names, but I know I’d miss
someone. You know who you are. This was the smoothest operating track of
anywhere we have raced at.
A very special thanks to the Jeep Club who worked their butts off keeping up
with Jay and Arnie’s tight scheduling. You are more appreciated than you’ll
ever know.
Thank you for your dedication, diligence and professionalism. There were
many relationships formed over the years and knowing we will not be racing
under the TCW banner, even if it’s Richland or not, definitely tears at our
heart strings.
And, so ends another chapter in the history of both Tri-Cities Watersports
and the United States Sprint Boat Association.
And on that note I will say that there are many, many people working on many
different options for the 2008 season. Your Board of Directors will have its
virtual nose to the grindstone for the 2008 season.
USSBA Special Report
Little Rock Chucker head reattachment a
100% success!
Little Rock Chucker to be ready for Richland
By Jim DeFord
Photo by Jim DeFord
BOISE, Idaho (August 9, 2007) — It has been reported
 to
the USSBA website that a rare head reattachment has been successfully
performed on the Little Rock Chucker Troll at a secret location somewhere in
Boise, Idaho.
"If it was not for the quick actions of the Slough Crew the
little guy would not have made it," Jack Bright said in an exclusive
USSBA website interview this afternoon. "The head was recovered, the
reattachment a success and Little Rock Chucker will be ready for the
next race at Richland."
Jack was near tears when he said, "I'm thankful they thought
of me and Jack Jr. first, but still happy they recovered the head
nonetheless. We always say that 'as long as Little Rock Chucker has his
head, we're okay.' In this case it was a scary moment, but when the Slough
Crew came to our side we knew it was going to be okay."
Webb's Slough Update
The grass is really greener!
Webb's Slough looking quite spiffy
By Jim DeFord
ST. JOHN, Wash. (June 12, 2007) — Webb's Slough, the
 newest
track on the USSBA's schedule is looking beautiful! The grass on the islands
is really growing in quite nicely. The track is being tended to each and
every day by a very dedicated staff and local community. Matt and Amanda
Webb are literally the proud parents of this new baby and are very excited
to have their first race on July 28th with several drivers coming in from
Australia for the maiden event at this beautiful facility in St. John,
Washington.
Race Times
Gates open at 9AM - Qualifying starts at
10AM
Where to stay?
Creekside Farms Bed & Breakfast - St.
John
Adjacent to Webb's Slough
Two rooms & Loft available - RV spots also available
509-648-4042
St John Fairgrounds RV Park - St. John
Full hookups adjacent to the Golf Course
First-come...First served. No reservations
Colfax Fairgrounds RV Park - Colfax
Full hookups. Reservations.
Call: 509-397-6238
Wheatland Inn - Colfax
Block of rooms reserved
Call: 509-397-0397 for reservations
Number for Wheatland Inn corrected.
Siesta Motel - Colfax
Call: 509-397-3417 for reservations
At the track - Webb's Slough
Tent camping available - Dry camping
Porta-potties and fresh water available
No showers. No power.
First come. First served.
$10 per vehicle.
USSBA News
PAW releases unprecedented on-board
video!!
Incredible videos and photos now online
By Jim DeFord
VANCOUVER, Wash. (June 6, 2007) — Paul White recorded
for the first time in the history of Sprint Boat racing, on-board videos on
two different boats. One video has the camera facing the driver/navigator
and the other faces to the nose of the boat.
Absolutely amazing work by our own Paul White.
In addition, Jim and Mary DeFord's photos are also online.
Pop on over to the Photo/Video page
and see the latest and greatest.
USSBA Race Preview
Season opener in Marsing will tell the
tale
Will qualifying points make or break?
By Jim DeFord
MARSING, Idaho (May 25, 2007) — The first race of a
USSBA season is always a mystery. Who's going to show up with what? We do
not have entry deadlines so we never really know who's going to race until
Tech-In or even until race morning. The one deadline the USSBA does have is
the driver's meeting race morning. Everyone racing must attend. No
exceptions. (period)
So...All the questions will be answered June 2nd as the USSBA
opens its 2007 racing season!
We come to 2007 with incredible coverage by Riverjet
Magazine, a growing points fund, many new racers, a firm and very dedicated
Board of Directors, a new track, and a new excitement not seen in the sport
for several years.
The Tech-In for Marsing will be from 5-7pm at:
Victors Hogs N Horns Restaurant & Lounge
3110 E Cleveland Blvd. #B
Caldwell, ID 83605
The driver's meeting is scheduled for 9:00am and qualifying
will commence at 10am.
Different from previous years is the new points system which
awards points for the qualifying rounds.
Qualifying points start at 64 points for the fastest
qualifier and then work the way down at 4-pont increments.
This should make the racing even hotter than ever right out
of the box as these racers give everything for each and every point to end
of the season and the ultimate trophy: The USSBA Championship.
USSBA News
Schlagel Marine advises to "place your
orders early!"
Be prepared for the new season
By Jim DeFord
BOISE, Idaho (March 28, 2007) — In speaking with Jeff
Schlagel this afternoon, he's advising all the teams to be sure and place
your orders for parts and spare parts early so he can have them to you in a
timely manner in preparation for the 2007 season.
"I want to be sure to get all the parts and pumps the teams
need," Jeff said today, "I'd hate to see anyone wait until the last minute
and be without."
Jeff also told me that his website will be online very soon.
Within days. I have listed his phone number in the left-hand column along
with his phone number so be sure and give Jeff a call and get your 2007
racing season shopping done early!
USSBA News
Year end news
 |
Marsing track renovated
|
|
Riverjet Magazine to cover every race
|
|
DeFord Photo to sponsor three boats
|
By Jim DeFord
VANCOUVER, Wash. (December 9, 2006) — Dave Pfeiler
reports that the fall renovation of the Marsing track is well underway.
"Marvin and I have been working on the track for three weeks now," Dave
reported to me in a telephone call Thursday evening. "We have flattened the
islands and cleared the channels. We have moved and re-arranged many, many
rocks. Many rocks!"
Dave has taken over the lease on the Marsing track, which is
the first "dug track" in the United States. Many drivers have become
increasingly concerned with the deteriorating condition of the racing
channels over the past two years and Marsing has been one of the most
challenging tracks currently available for the USSBA. With the channels
cleared out and the larger rocks removed, the drivers will be able to let
their boats hang out more than ever and the racing should be exciting!
Riverjet Magazine to cover entire 2007
series
The folks at Riverjet Magazine re-confirmed their commitment
to covering the entire 2007 season in their wonderful magazine. If you have
not yet had the pleasure, it can be found on most newsstands as it is
produced here in the Northwest. If you'd like to subscribe, just click the
logo in the left-hand column and it will take you directly to their site.
Show your support for the wonderful people at Riverjet by sending your
subscription now! It would make a great Christmas present!!! We are looking
forward to working with the friendly staff at Riverjet in 2007.
defordphoto to co-sponsor three boats
defordphoto
is proud to announce an aggressive co-sponsoring program for 2007 in which
they will sponsor three boats and possibly a fourth. "We have to chat with
Don Smith if he decides to keep the logo on the front of his new boat," Jim
said today. Don Smith purchased Dean Lautenschlager's hull that was
specially prepared by the folks at Jetco in 2005 for Dean and the defordphoto
logo was prominent on the front deck next to Jetco's.
You will see the defordphoto logo on the following boats in
2007:
#01 En Fuego owned by Doug Hendrickson
#151 It's All About Me owned by Kyle Patrick
"We here at defordphoto are very excited about the 2007
season. I think we'll see some of the most competitive racing in the history
of the USSBA, and we're thrilled to be covering the sport."
Jim and Mary DeFord have photographed the series since 2003
and have been the official photographers for the USSBA since 2005.
USSBA News
Champions crowned!
Magazine deal confirmed — Tentative race
dates set — TV Deal in progress
By Jim DeFord
PENDLETON, Oregon (November 4, 2006) — The 2006 racing
season officially closed
_small.JPG) today with the culmination of the National Meeting
and Awards Banquet. The focus, this year, was set on by the statement that
past-USSBA-President, Mike Blimka made at the 2005 meeting that “we should
be celebrating” rather than politicizing at the National Meeting(s).
Doug Hendrickson carried Mike’s theme throughout the day’s meeting with two
season celebration presentations by Jim DeFord and Paul White. Jim presented
a 15-minute photographic slide show of the 2006 season of Jim and Mary’s
photos along with music in
the morning portion of the meeting. Paul White presented a video montage of
the 2006 season later in the afternoon. These presentations had the crowd of
well over 50-people-strong, cheering, laughing and applauding as they
briefly relived the season past.
A very special thanks to Paul White for his efforts in making these
presentations possible. He supplied the equipment, his time and a long drive
from SW Washington to make this happen. Thanks Paul!
The meeting itself produced some by-law and race rule changes. I will
address those changes in detail and very specifically after the board meets
via conference call to dictate all the changes the membership voted on and
the several issues the membership presented to the board to consider,
clarify and/or change.
One of the major changes in the by-laws is that all Members of the Board will serve a three-year term. They will exit in alternating years
so there are not more than three possible directors or officers leaving at
any one time. Of course, any member of the board can elect to continue for
another three years if the membership re-votes them back into office.
Your new Members of the Board are:
Officers
Doug Hendrickson – President
Tom Nelson – Vice-President
Chuck Moddrell – Secretary/Treasurer
Board of Directors
Jim DeFord
Scott Ackerman
John Gray Jr.
Kyle Patrick
With the three-year term now in affect there will be no
scheduled elections in 2007. Details will be clarified in a follow-up
article on the website following the conference call.
Doug Hendrickson, Tom Nelson, Chuck Moddrell and Jim DeFord elected to
continue on with their respective positions pending membership approval and
were voted in by the membership. Tom Nelson was nominated for the office of
Vice-President as the only nomination and vacated his BOD position. Scott,
Kyle and John were voted in by ballot vote submitted by the membership.
There were a total of 12 nominations for the seven available positions. More
than we have seen in many years. Dave Pfeiler chose to not be retained so he
can concentrate his efforts at the Marsing track for the 2007 season.
Exciting Announcements!
Newly re-elected President, Doug Hendrickson had several exciting
announcements on hand. First-off, RiverJet Magazine officially
announced they will be covering the entire 2007 season with stories, photos
and more! This is a very important announcement
as RiverJet is based here (Idaho Falls, Idaho) in the Pacific Northwest.
They understand the market, the economics and its people. RiverJet
Magazine is readily available in any bookstore and most magazine stands.
You can logon to the RiverJet Magazine website here:
http://www.riverjetmagazine.com/
Their current issue highlights the Idaho Boat Company which employs
the USSBA’s very own Hanna Rice, A-400 2006 Champion Navigator! You will be
seeing ads and a banner ads here as we progress with that relationship.
Doug also announced that Schlagel Marine, LLC. Has become the SDM
(Scott Pumps) Jetpump supplier in the United States. Jeff is excited to start this
new relationship with the USSBA racing series as its sole supplier of the
coveted parts, pumps and supplies for Scott Jetpumps.
In a chat with Jeff, he said they are still working on their website. The
USSBA site will work closely with Jeff and will announce any new information
regarding Schlagel Marine as it is available. In the meantime, you can
contact Jeff at: 208-921-1214 or email to:
jefschlag@hotmail.com
As with Riverjet, you will be seeing ads and banner ads here as we progress
with the newly formed relationship with Schlagel Marine.
A possible TV deal is being worked on very diligently by Doug and his staff.
Doug has been in contact with a FoxSports producer that is very interested
in the USSBA. Paul White, who has shot videos for Wildsports and is now
shooting independently, will be working directly with this producer for an
upcoming demo-DVD. Jack Armstrong is being seduced by Doug for the
voiceovers. More info to come as it is available.
Track Updates
Woodland is still in the air. We will be in contact with Jeff as soon as he
gets back from California to see if there is any progress in that venue.
Rosalia is also in the air. There was some prime land available but it was
just not enough acreage to stage an event. Some other land is potentially
available, but with many issues. The city and county are ready to rock and
roll and would love to have us racing in their area. Water rights are
confirmed. We just need a spot of available land to dig a track. Kudos to
newly elected BOD, Scott Ackerman for his efforts in attempting to make this
happen.
Tentative Race Season Announced
The 2007 season was announced with six confirmed races; three at Marsing and
three at Richland. See the 2007 Season Schedule at:
2007 Season Schedule
Night Racing@ Richland Confirmed
The most exciting part of this announcement is that all three of the
Richland events will be night races. Though start times are tentative, it is
expected to start the races 5-6pm and end at 10-10:30pm. Tech-in will be at
the track with under-the-lights practice runs on the Friday evening before
the race date.
The Tri-Cities Watersports organization is working daily to make these
events successful. From safety, to light adjustments, track configuration
and more. Volunteers will be required to make this happen. Details to
follow.
Marsing New Management
The infamous Marsing track—the first dug track in the United States—is now
under new management. Dave Pfeiler with Jack Armstrong taking the head of
promotions. In addition, Jack Armstrong will announce the Marsing and
Richland races…Maybe more???!
Dinner Banquet
A sea of trophies greeted the membership as they entered the room. An
estimated 60 people w_small.JPG) ere present for the banquet celebration. After dinner
the trophies were presented to all classes. Photos will be available soon.
Chris Sandoval received his trophy in full American Legion
gear. Chris and his navigator politely graced their sponsors for the Stock
Class Championship. Very nice.
Steve and Brenda Rice, finishing second on the Stock Class, thanked their
sponsors and specifically the USSBA staff and Jim/Mary DeFord for photos and
website presentation.
(Thank you Steve)
Third in Stock Class was Todd Mulvaine. Todd also was awarded
the USSBA Rookie of the Year award.
Trevor Peterson and his brother were not available to accept their trophies.
Doug Hendrickson accepted their trophy with the associated thanks for the
Super-Modified Championship.
John Gray accepted the second place trophy followed by Dan Smith for third.
In Class A-400 Dave Pfeiler claimed third. Kyle Patrick took
home the second-place hardware with Doug Hendrickson finishing first. It
should be noted here that Pfeiler, Patrick and Jack Bright Sr. were in a
three-way tie for second in points that had to be broken via the rules.
Congratulations to all for an incredibly well fought battle for the Class
A-400 Championship.
In the Super Boat class the emotions began to flow. Lee Rice, who in 2006
had two significant crashes and several engine issues, called 2006 his most
fun racing season ever. Specifically thanking Doug Hendrickson and the
USSBA, Lee also accepted Thunderbowl Racing’s Hard Luck racing award oar.
Lee Rice finished third in the 2006 season._small.JPG)
Then came USSBA’s Comedy Club duo of Linda Ensminger and Tom Nelson. Words
cannot describe. No one dared take notes. You had to be there. It was
incredible and will never be repeated. If anyone has video please contact
the Webmaster immediately!!
Darrin Hartwig was already in emotional distress with his navigator’s wife
being mere minutes from giving birth. That’s all fine and dandy but Darrin
was also being named Godfather of this new child and we all teared up from
there…Darrin offered a very sensational acceptance speech and a great offer
on a new toilet seat…You HAD to be there.
Fini
There are some other things to be confirmed during the off-season and
your new USSBA BOD is already working hard to make 2007 a pivotal year for
our series. Keep an eye on the website because you'll here it here first,
and if you hear it before we do, please email the webmaster as soon as
possible!
Thank you everyone! 2006 was a great, growing season for the
USSBA and the National Meeting was an excellent celebration!
See the Banquet Photos
here.
|
USSBA New Track Announcement!
If you dig it, they will come
New track in St. John, Wash. being dug now!
By Jim DeFord
ST. JOHN, Wash. (May 21, 2007) — Webb's Slough, the
_small.JPG) newest
addition to the 2007 USSBA Racing Schedule, is being dug right at this very
moment. The track is located in St. John, Washington and will be ready for
its July 28th premiere race, bumping the schedule to 7 races for 2007. This
will be a full points race under the direction and guidance of Brian Fair.
Matt and Amanda Webb are the owners of
_small.JPG) this
new facility and as you can see by the photos the area is very beautiful.
Dan Morrison is leading the digging effort for Webb's Slough and also has
the entire town of St. John behind him, along with Scott Ackerman, Tim
Cummings and many others. The USSBA is looking forward to racing at this
track for many years to come.
_small.JPG)
There will be motel information (blocks of rooms have already
been set aside), driving directions and more coming as soon as it is
available, so set aside this important date for July 28th!!!
See you there...
USSBA News
Construction affects route to Marsing
A simple shift in driving to the track avoids
headaches
By Jim DeFord
MARSING, Idaho (May 21, 2007) — In 2006 we took exit
#29 to avoid extensive road construction to the Marsing track. This year
exit #29 is the target of road construction and the old exit #27 to Hiway 55
to Marsing is now complete and a very nice drive.
Exit #29 is the exit to the USSBA motel (LaQunita) of choice,
but once off the hiway the trip to the track will not cross through the
construction zone at all. Please be careful coming in on Friday afternoon to
the LaQuinta Motel.
USSBA News
Clarion official motel of the USSBA in
Richland
Place reservations for all three dates now!
By Jim DeFord
RICHLAND, Wash. (May 11, 2007) — The Clarion in
Richland is once again the official motel for the races at Horn Rapids ORV
Park in Richland, Washington. Click
HERE to reserve a room. Rooms are priced at $79.99 a night.
That price is for a max of 4 people with a free roll-out bed.
USSBA News
Sell a banner for the sport!
Win-Win proposal for all
By Jim DeFord
KENNEWICK, Wash. (February 20, 2007) — Jack Bright has
proposed to the USSBA BOD and we have approved a challenge to all USSBA
members to sell at least one advertising banner for the 2007 racing season.
Banner costs are $250 plus the cost of the banner. A 2'x8'
4-color banner typically runs about $110. This banner would appear at all
races and all tracks. The seller is responsible for ensuring that the
banners are moved from track-to-track, installed and removed in a timely
manner.
The $250 will be distributed as follows:
50% to the points award fund
25% to the USSBA general fund
15% to the seller
10% to the Shriners
How can you lose? by selling a banner the points awards are
increased, making the sport more attractive to more teams. It helps build
the USSBA general fund which as a not-for-profit organization always comes
back into the sport in one way or the other. You get 15%! BONUS! And then
10% is donated to the Shriners.
Jack said he already has sold a few banners and is
challenging YOU to sell at least one.
USSBA News
Golden Wardles passes away
Sport loses one of the "old guard"
By Jim DeFord
SALT LAKE CITY, Utah (March 19, 2007) — Past USSBA
President and touted as one of the original "Grand-Daddy's" of jet sprint
racing in the United States died March 15th in a hospital in Salt Lake City
from complications from knee surgery.
Golden Wardles owned and ran a SuperBoat in those
days. People that knew Golden say he gave a lot to the sport.
The funeral will be held at 1:00pm on Thursday, March 22nd at
the
Cloverdale Church of God in Boise.
CLICK HERE for driving directions.
USSBA News
Board and Membership meeting minutes now
online
By Jim DeFord
KENNEWICK, Wash. (January 22, 2007) — After a slight
delay the Board and Membership meetings are now online. You will see a new
menu option over on the left side menu bar that will take you to the page
with all the board and member meeting minutes for 2006. It is our goal to
have all future minutes posted no later than a week after the meeting. Your
current BOD meets once a month via teleconference call and we plan on
continuing that schedule from here on out.
In addition, if you would like to send a comment/suggestion
to your Board of Directors, click
HERE.
We are here to serve to the needs of the entire membership of
the USSBA and have an open-door policy. All suggestions and comments will be
addressed.
We all hope you have a wonderful holiday and we're all
looking forward to the 2007 racing season!
Sprint Boat News
25 years of Sprinting
New Zealand celebrates 25 years of racing
By Jim DeFord with Theo Spyker
Photos courtesy Theo Spyker
PALMERSTON NORTH, New Zealand (November 19, 2006) — I
won't even
 attempt
to recap 25 years of Sprint Boat racing history, but the folks down in New
Zealand recently celebrated the 25th anniversary of the sport.
They held an event on the Manewatu River at Palmerston North
in NZ on October 15th.
One of the original sprint boats to ever race was there. John
and Nonie Cowper
 still
own and drive the boat, be it with a newer engine these days (Leyland V8).
It was originally powered by a 1172cc Ford 100E, and it's said it used to
pull 2 skiers!?!?!?
Just like 25 years ago, history repeated itself. The river
started to rise rapidly and the event—just like 25 years ago—had to be
abandoned. Editor's Note: New Zealand sprinters run on tracks dug right
off a river that feeds the track. After the race, the track is buried and
the river returned to normal.
The other photos included in this article are Duncan Wilson's
Group A boat, a Mk III Mackcraft, (412 Chev) Duncan finished 5th in the NZ
Champs.
The NZ River Marathon Champs were run later the same day, and 25 of these
monsters came past at 30 second intervals. Pictured is Mark Cromie at close
to full noise!
 Finally,
Russell Harris was left high and dry in the commentary/timing caravan,
before being rescued.
And speaking of Russell Harris, he recently published a book:
Waterblasters: Jetsprinting...The First 25 Years
Lee Rice had a copy of this book at the National Meeting.
Mary DeFord has been researching where this book can be purchased as it
covers the entire history of Jet Sprinting, including the United States.
Theo Spyker told Mary via email that the book has received
much more demand than Russell expected. As soon as a firm place is
established to purchase
this book is available, we will let you know.
Special thanks to Theo Spyker for providing the USSBA this
information and accompanying photos.
USSBA News
Tri-Cities Watersports signs on for 2007!
Danny Penwell and staff make major
announcement!
By Jim DeFord
RICHLAND, Wash. (Sept. 19, 2006) — Tri-Cities
Watersports announced today that they have signed on for the 2007 season to
run at least two races on dates to be announced. As of this writing we are
still working out the details for Woodland, Marsing and a possible new track
in Rosalia, Washington that is still very young in the negotiation process.
The logistics of running a USSBA event are huge and it
doesn't last just one weekend. There are many hurdles to jump to get a track
dug. From water rights to possible environmentalist issues to possible
traffic and noise issues just to name a very few. Then there is advertising
and much, much more.
This is the time when your President and Board of Directors
work their hardest in preparing for the next season.
Doug Hendrickson and his staff are not tossing up their hands
to wait for the 2007 season to begin. We are working daily on
this possible deal and that possible deal. From potential sponsors to
creating a viable presentation DVD for our potential sponsors to promotion
deals that could provide the most exposure of the sport in the history of
the USSBA.
At this time it would be appropriate to publicly thank
everyone at Thunderbowl Racing. You had a very tough row to hoe and did a
fine job at Marsing. It's difficult enough just to promote and manage a race
track, but when you also race in the event, that is incredible to be able to
make that happen. Good job!
Special kudos to Jeff Strong and the folks at Wildside
Enterprises for taking a huge risk in running the Woodland race in front of
a county council who is heck-bent on making your life miserable. That was a
fantastic event at everyone's favorite track. We look forward to racing
there in 2007.
And finally to the folks at Tri-Cities Watersports. We love
you guys! A very hard working group of people from Danny to Cindy to Barb
and Jay and Robin and Keith, to the dedicated folks in the Jeep club who
tirelessly haul the boats in and out of the pits to the launch ramp. It's
hard to find words to properly thank you.
I guess Doug kissing Danny on the lips pretty much says it
all eh?
A very special THANK YOU to our dinner hosts at The
_small.JPG) Nationals
this year. Dave Rose and Tim Arntzen cooked the free-range pig from Othello,
Washington, and provided the food.
Dave Rose owns Northwest Rentals and is a Richland City Councilman.
In addition, we have learned that ALL the proceeds from this
dinner were donated to Tri-Cities Watersports to fill their money coffers to
start the 2007 season off on a very positive note.
Thank you all for a job well done and a very successful and
exciting race season for 2006. 2007 will be even better. See you then...
|
<<<OLD NEWS>>>
|
USSBA News
New fans - New competitors
Woodland race provides much more than just
racing
By Jim DeFord
WOODLAND, Wash. (Aug. 27, 2006) — As the fans left
(most of them) and the prizes had been awarded, there was a motorhome
sitting with a group of folks winding down from the day of racing.
Doug Hendrickson, his team, myself and Mary chatted with them
for about an hour.
They are from Sequim, Washington and had found out about the
USSBA racing series from our website. They had tried making a couple of
other races but for one reason or another it just didn't work out.
Their group finally made it to the August 26th event at
Woodland and were immediately sold on the series.
As we continued talking with them they are involved in
sandrails and expressed some interest in possibly getting involved in sprint
boats.
Doug mentioned that Ty Applegate had a boat for sale (that
did very well in the race) and gave them Ty's number. They assured us they
would definitely be able to make the Nationals at Richland on September 9th
and we looked forward to seeing them there.
I spoke with Doug this morning and they had already called Ty
and were in the process of working out a deal to purchase Ty's boat. If the
deal works out they will picking it up at Richland!
In addition to possibly having a new driver we definitely
acquired many new fans.
Mary and I invited some close friends to the race and they
immediately began making plans to haul their camper to Richland, which
should turn out to be some of the most exciting, nail biting Nationals we
have seen from some time.
I also spoke with several other brand new fans that expressed
a huge interest in following the series.
USSBA News
Woodland a definite YES!
Race will be a fully sanctioned, points &
prize paying event
By Jim DeFord
WOODLAND, Wash. (August 6, 2006) — If there was
 still
any doubt in anyone's minds about the Woodland race taking place I would
like to remove all that doubt right now.
The Woodland race will take place on August 26th. It is being
advertised as a "free" event with donations of cash or canned food being
accepted at the gate.
This will be a fully blown event. It is not a playday. There
will be food vendors, an announcer, fans galore with the typical prizes
offered to the top winners in their class just like any other event. You can
click on the flyer above for a full size, printable copy. Please pass them
out to everyone!
For those of you making plans ahead of schedule,
CLICK HERE
for a list of motels in the area. And you can
CLICK HERE
of a long list of restaurants.
USSBA News
Order your USSBA Gear Now!
New logo promotes USSBA to a New Level
By Jim DeFord
VANCOUVER, Wash. (May 6, 2006) — If you look to the
upper left corner of this page you will see the new USSBA logo.
Thanks to Tom Nelson for arranging this design with his yet
to be revealed, artist.
In addition, the USSBA now sports a Gear Shop where you can
buy all kinds of USSBA logo'd gear at a reasonable price while also
supporting the sport. The profits of the USSBA Gear Shop go right back into
the USSBA coffers.
You will see the yellow and black link just below the menu
bar.
To be the first on you block to be wearing the latest racing
attire on the planet, go to:
http://www.cafepress.com/ussba
USSBA News
Start clicking your mice!
Every sponsor click counts
By Jim DeFord
VANCOUVER, Wash. (May 19, 2006) — You may have noticed
some sponsor logos showing up on the website. You BETTER have noticed some
sponsor logos showing up on the website!
As you prepare your boats for each track I will be preparing
the website for every track. What you see as of this writing are sponsors
for the Marsing track. As we move on to Richland, their sponsors will be
shifted into place.
Many of our sponsors have websites. If you click on an ad
that has a website you will be directed to that site. Our sponsors, like we
do, track our traffic and they will know that you came from the USSBA
website.
If a sponsor does not have a website, you will be presented
with a large version of their ad.
So, click away!
USSBA News
defordphoto
offers payback to USSBA!
Every purchase offers payback to the sport
By Jim DeFord
VANCOUVER, Wash. (May 29, 2006) — The USSBA and defordphoto have come to an agreement to offer the website for the sale of Jim
and Mary's incredible photos. The 2004/2005 seasons are now both online.
CLICK
HERE TO SEE THE NEW PHOTO SITE.
As part of the agreement, defordphoto
will payback 2% of all net profits directly back to the USSBA.
The new site accepts VISA/MasterCard/AMEX, checks and money
orders. This is not a Paypal system.
You can order everything from pictures to puzzles, to coffee
mugs to mousepads, to calendars and much more. I hope to have some live
samples available for your viewing pleasure at the July 8th event in
Marsing.
Due to defordphoto's
longstanding commitment to Champcar racing, our appearance at the Richland
race on Father's Day weekend will be very limited as the 22nd running
of the GI Joe's 200 will he held at Portland International Raceway will be
that very same weekend.
If you would like a special shoot done for your boat or team,
just contact Jim or Mary and we'll do what we can to accommodate. We also
have studio lights and equipment available for custom shoots, portraits and
more!
USSBA News
Lee Rice in huge crash at Marsing
Paul White video captures event
By Jim DeFord
MARSING, Idaho (June 5, 2006) — Thanks to Paul White
we are able to show you an incredible, flying crash by Lee Race at Marsing
on June 3rd. Fortunately everyone was okay, but Lee's Rice came perilously
close to jumping the catch fencing.
See the video on the Photos
and Videos page.
New Tom Nelson Marsing track record video
available!! Also see the Photos and Videos page!
USSBA News
Marsing winding up for a great start!
Track being prepped - Schedules being set
- Sponsors signing up!
By Jim DeFord
MARSING, Idaho (May 17, 2006) — The 2006 USSBA season
kicks off with its first event at Marsing on June 3rd. The track is being
spiffed and there is a lot happening!
ROAD CONSTRUCTION
First off we better let everyone know that exit 27 (the
normal exit for Marsing) is under very heavy construction so you will need
to take exit 29 instead. We will have directions from exit 29 to the track
on the website soon. In addition the folks at the Sage Travel Plaza and the
Sage Cafe will have directions to both the Show and Shine and also to the
Marsing track. Stop in and say hi! You'll also pass by United Oil who is
also a sponsor of the race.
CLICK
HERE FOR THE NEW DRIVING DIRECTIONS TO MARSING.
SHOW AND SHINE
The Show and Shine will be held at Victor's Hogs & Horns on
Friday evening, June 2nd from 5pm to 7pm. This is a great time to have your
boat inspected before Saturday's race. All racers are highly encouraged to
have your boats tech'd Friday night.
The address is: 3110 E Cleveland Blvd., Caldwell.
AUTOGRAPH SESSIONS
Thunderbowl has arranged several autograph sessions set for
before and after the race. They would like to conduct a session at the Show
and Shine and then after Saturday's race, there will be two separate
sessions. Immediately after the race there will be a session at Cabas and
also the Poorhouse and then at 10pm that evening there will be a session
held at the Buffalo Club in Boise. Participating drivers and navigators will
be issued drink vouchers. This is a great time to get our sport out into the
public eye and to show our sponsors some support. We will fill in the blanks
and remind everyone on race morning.
USSBA News
As the Rumor-Mill churns...
Drivers in; Drivers Out...More...
By Jim DeFord
Kennewick, Wash. (April 2, 2006) — The USSBA Presidential Curse
has struck again. 2005 USSBA President and 2005 400A Champion, Sean Mathews
has officially retired and will not be defending his title this season.
Dave Jensen, who has piloted the infamous DeWalt Tool boat
the past several years has also retired. Brad Roberts will be a crew member
on an SCCA racing team in 2006 as he prepares to venture into wheeled
motorsports.
Some of the competing drivers would claim, "This is the good
news!" as these drivers were all competitive and battling for, if not
winning, their class titles in 2005.
On a sidenote: Frank Toftemark has announced he is likely to
be back to race a limited schedule in 2006. Dean Lautenschalger will also be
running a limited schedule and Kyle Patrick is moving up to the A-400 class. More news coming soon!
More good news is that there are several drivers shifting
classes and hulls and motors and more.
Then 2006 season looks to be as exciting as ever...Even
better...
Night Racing
Speaking of exciting. You wanna go night racing?!?!
I spoke with Dan and Cindy to some length Saturday evening
and they have begun preparations for the June 17th race date.
It is still the goal to race at night in Richland. Dan and
Cindy are working every angle to ensure that if we do race at night it's #1:
Safe and #2 Fun.
Safety is always number one and you will not meet a more
committed team than Dan, Cindy and everyone that supports our sport in
Richland, Washington.
We will keep you informed as this progresses.
|
USSBA News
La Quinta sponsorship for Marsing
announced!
Offers discounted rooms to teams and fans
By Jim DeFord
MARSING, Idaho (July 10, 2006) — La Quinta Inn and
Suites in Caldwell, Idaho, is offering discounted rooms for the July 29th
race at Marsing effective immediately.
These $80-plus rooms will be listed on a first-come
first-served basis for a mere $67.50!!
To reserve your room NOW, call 208-454-2222. When reserving
your room, the 'special password' is: SPRINT BOAT RACING.
Who would'a figgered? :)
A very special thanks goes out to Doug Hartley for making
this happen.
As one who can attest to the high costs of traveling to the
sport I love, a motel discount is a godsend.
USSBA News
2006 rules now online
Minor changes will affect all
By Jim DeFord
VANCOUVER, Wash. (April 3, 2006) — The 2006 rules are now online with
only two changes:
Old rule: In the section titled: Running the Course
(In-Ground/Dug Course)
Rule #3 stated: If you miss a turn during your run and
realize that you have missed it you can go back and pick up the turn and
finish the course, only your time will suffer.
The 2006 rules now state: 3. If you miss a turn during your
run it will be scored as a DNF. You cannot go back and pick up the course.
The driver will exit the course immediately, via the shortest and safest
route possible.
In the Super Modified section under Heads the
2005 rules stated: Heads: Stock valve angles and locations. Stock port
locations. Example = Chevy valve angle 23 degrees. Ford valve angle 22
degrees. Chrysler valve angle 18 degrees.
The 2006 rules now state: Heads: Stock valve angles and stock
port locations. Example = Chevy valve angle 23 degrees. Ford valve angle 22
degrees. Chrysler valve angle 18 degrees.
First Place Boats to be Impounded in 2006
As an alert for the 2006 season as previously stated here at
USSBARacing.com, we now have the capability to measure engine displacement
with our new
engine displacement gauge, so the Post-Race Inspection rules will be
instituted in 2006. All first place boats will be impounded and inspected
per the 2006 Rules and Regulations directly after your final pass.
Also, post-race inspections will be private. The only
attending personnel will be the Driver and/or owner, tech officials, race
controller, board members and engine builder if present.
USSBA Special Report
RacerX—DownUnder!
Tom Nelson Reports
By
Tom Nelson
and Jim DeFord
Photos by Theo Spykers
MELTON, Australia (December 22, 2005) — I flew down
for two weeks to race in the Australian
 Championships in Melton. I was to
race my old RacerX boat, the boat that we had so many problems with in the
USSBA '04 Season. While we all thought the problem we were facing was a fuel
shortage was actually an ignition problem with the MSD box the whole time -
took about 5 minutes to change out and the boat ran flawless ever after -
after all those headaches, all the money, all the frustration and heartaches
- it finally ran great!
I had the boat on the water on Tuesday at the Melton track to
do a little shake down on the boat and to make sure it was up to snuff and
to re-acquaint myself with this Mackraft hull.
After warming the boat up on the trailer, I hammered the
throttle, made my way topside around the speedy section of the track and
while bringing the boat back through the middle at full noise, the boat let
go and we damn near destroyed the boat and put it about 50 meters on the
bank - luckily only hurting the bottom of the boat a bit - a good grounding
for myself I'd say. As my crew walked over from the pit area to help load
the boat back on the trailer, my dad could only muster a "What the
hell was that". A typical hard-ass reply from my father that
we have all come to expect—a man of few words—but a man that has helped me
get to where I am at.
After thrashing on the boat the rest of the week to fix the
damage and make some more changes, and after TV/radio/and newspaper
appearances and appearing at local shops in Baccus Marsh and Melton
to help promote the up and coming races—they treated me awesome over
there—the race day was finally upon us.
Another rainy day in Australia provided us with some
spectacular racing at the famous Melton track. Working on the boat set-up
throughout the day, and getting better as the day went on, we found
ourselves in the finals against Phil Dixon and the new True Blue with the
monster 500 under the hood.
Myself out first in the finals saw us damn near destroy the
boat coming up through the middle but we managed to hang on and bring it
home with the fastest time of the day!! Phil Dixon followed it up with a
phenomenal pass and beat me by .07 (7 one thousandths of a second...Try
BLINKING that fast!!) seconds in the final. A great race that kept the big
crowd around until the very end.
We are heading back down in January to race at Melton again and then back
down in March to race at the awesome Albury track. Thanks goes out to my
sponsors in Australia for making all this possible - thanks Clayton at Nibus
and Colin at PigDog Racing.
News Report
Latest news, rumors and such...
By Jim DeFord
VANCOUVER (January 24, 2006) — Yes, it is the off
season (seems like forever!) but there are all kinds of things happening
behind the scenes.
The USSBA has acquired a brand new engine displacement gauge
and will be measuring engines in 2006.
Jack Bright and Son will move to to the Group-A400 class.
Kyle Patrick will be moving up to Superboats. Though still to be confirmed,
there will be several new boats scattered through the classes in 2006.
Tom Nelson will be running a two boat team in the Superboat
class. Rumors are circulating that Ty Applegate will be driving RacerX and
Tom will be at the helm of the Piranha machine he ran in 2005.
The proposed track in Albany is still being hammered out. It's
still in the paperwork stage but we fully expect to run at least one race
there this season. A possible sanctioned, points-paying "playday" is an
extreme high possibility for Woodland. As soon as we have more information
we will post it here on the website. If you have any news or information
please send it to me by clicking
HERE!
USSBA Special Report
Mathews podiums in New Zealand
championship!
By Jim DeFord
Photos by Theo Spykers
 New
Zealand (January 19, 2006) — Sean Mathews took a 3rd place overall in
the UIM Championships in New Zealand. It is reported he ran some very good
races though I do not have any details at this time.
In addition I have posted a night photo from a recent
race in Albury. Pretty cool stuff. Hopefully they can get the lights working
soon at Richland.
|
|
National Meeting Report
New officers elected
Minor race rule changes for 2006 — Minor
by-laws changes — Rookie of the Year crowned!
By Jim DeFord
PENDLETON, Oregon (October 30, 2005) — New USSBA
officers and Board of Directors were elected Saturday. A full 2006 schedule
consisting of 6 races at Richland and Marsing should be set later this week
so stay tuned to USSBARacing.com for that news. Your new governing body
consists of:
Officers
President: Doug Hendrickson
Vice-President: Brad Roberts
Secretary-Treasurer: Chuck Moddrell
Board of Directors
Tom Nelson
Jim DeFord
Dave Pfeiler
Sean Mathews
 There are a couple of minor race rule changes being
researched that will be announced at a later date. At the present time there
are no boat or engine spec changes. The by-law requiring a person to become
a member of the USSBA to join one of the chapters has been abolished. There
will be more information forthcoming once the board discusses the issues at
hand. All members will be notified via mail.
Rookie of the Year
New USSBA sensation Chris Sandoval was crowned 2006 Rookie of
the Year. Chris finished third in the Stock Class just a mere
70 points out of first. His best finish was a second at Marsing in August.
Congratulations Chris!!
See all the National Banquet Photos
HERE.
Woodland pulled from schedule
A playday possible, but a full race out of
the question
By Jim DeFord
RICHLAND, Wash. (May 22, 2005) — In an interview on Saturday, Keith
Richards stated finality to the Woodland track for 2005. "No. Not this
year." When asked if I should pull the race from the schedule he said, "Yes.
We might do a 'playday' but we won't be able to race there this year."
It's sad to hear that news as the Woodland track was a shining star on the
USSBA circuit. Currently, Keith is still obligated to Cowlitz county for
over $17,000 in fines for running races at the track without a permit. He is
still contesting the fine and has not totally given up the long fight for
the track.
There are negotiations continuing in several areas of the northwest for more
venues, and we will report any news here as soon as we have it in hand.
In
the meantime that takes the USSBA season from eight to six races and a long
pause between races four and five, and five and six.
&nbs | |
.JPG)
.JPG)
.JPG)
.JPG)
.JPG)
.JPG)
.JPG)
.JPG)
.JPG)
