The American Power Boat Association, or APBA, has been entertaining boat racing fans for decades. They’ve also been providing an outlet for professionals to test their skills and participate in a safe and responsible sports setting. Though the association is well recognized, it has undergone several changes throughout its existence, including the most recent rebranding.
The American Power Boat Association Facts
Before covering the latest news from the APBA, it’s nice to learn a little about it. The APBA is authorized by the Union Internationale Motonautique, or UIM, as the US governing body for professional powerboat racing. It began in 1903 as New York’s Columbia Yacht Club.
With more than 3,500 members and over 150 races in the nation, the APBA is home to various powerboat races, water vessels, and classes. Many of the boats in its races can reach speeds of up to 205 miles per hour or higher.
The association and its members are known for setting some of the world’s powerboat racing records. It’s also one of the safest and most highly insured entities in the industry. The APBA is also the only way for professionals to win a national or world championship.
An Unknown Division
It’s easy to get caught up in the endorphin and adrenaline rush of powerboat racing, but as with most things in life, the sport has a past unique to its present and future. The APBA’s Vintage & Historic Division was headed by Tom D’Eath in 1994.
This division’s purpose began with the idea to help preserve the racing heritage of the APBA. When retired racers heard of the newly formed division, many came out to lend a hand. Before they knew it, restoring old racing hulls became the norm and the division grew.
Today, the Vintage & Historic Division is led by new officials and regional representatives. It continues to grow and offers a separate membership for those interested in supporting the APBA’s history and efforts.
Vintage & Historic Division’s RUDDERS Program
In 2022, the Vintage & Historic Division added an inductee program called RUDDERS. Induction of RUDDERS was created to recognize the commitment of individuals to the evolution, permanence, and historical preservation of APBA. In January 2023, three new “Rudders” were inducted into the program.
The Rebranding Announcement
In early 2023, the APBA board approved the rebranding of the association. The announcement made public that the brand was experiencing a facelift that included new standard colors of Lake Blue and Patriotic Blue, representing the APBA’s history on the water.
The rebranding includes a new logo and a new tagline, “We Are Boat Racing.” Plans for new merchandise, partners, and even a new website coming together are in the works.
Why rebrand? The APBA is entering its 120th anniversary and wants to honor its history. The rebranding is meant to help modernize and prepare for the next generation of boat racers.
Relocating the American Power Boat Association
Clinton Township, Michigan, has been home to the APBA since its inception. At the end of 2022, the association packed its bags and relocated to Auburndale, Florida. Although construction of its new headquarters has yet to conclude, it will reside in a small space near its new permanent structure. The association’s address will change, but its phone number will remain unchanged in the hopes of making the transition as smooth as possible for members.
Other American Power Boat Association News
At the start of 2023, the APBA received inboard racing season rule proposals. Rules and regulations are set forth to provide orderly conduct and to establish minimum requirements. Said rules and regulations need to be adhered to by all race participants.
Safety inspections, acceptable equipment, hardware specifications, training, team criteria, definitions, sanctions, entry information, registration, meetings, licensing, prizes, and qualifications are all also covered in rule proposals.
Preparing for Change
Change is a part of life in the unpredictable world of powerboat racing. Changes, like rebranding and relocating, are important processes to help the APBA’s corporate image and messaging. The association hopes to improve the business while developing the old brand into a new form that can stand.
Though a new website is part of the APBA’s rebranding efforts, fans and professionals will still be able to find the same useful information about races, rules, announcements, schedules, and results. In addition, they can shop for merchandise and explore boat racing resources.