The two organizations could ride side by side in this partnership where everyone would be a winner. (Photo Journal Saint-François – Archives)
The major hydroplane racing organizations want to produce a common calendar that would allow teams to compete for both the HRL and Grand Prix America titles.
Indeed, the leaders of the Hydroplane Regatta League (HRL) – GP Series and Grand Prix America, an American league, have started talks in order to offer amateurs as well as pilots an unparalleled experience for the seasons to come. .
A long-awaited partnership
Interest in a partnership between the two organizations dates back to before the pandemic. The health restrictions that halted operations on the HRL circuit in the past two years had put the brakes on a possible deal. But discussions have resumed and are promising. Note that Grand Prix America was able to present all of its events last summer.
“A partnership with Grand Prix America would allow American pilots to participate in our events and our Grand Prix pilots to compete in theirs, which would elevate the spectacle, in addition to diversifying it. It would be a major blow in sport and for its influence, ”said Didier-Bernard Séguin, the commissioner of the HRL.
The HRL and Grand Prix America already share a few drivers, including headliners Brandon Kennedy and Andrew Tate.
A common calendar
The Grand Prix America has already unveiled its calendar for the 2022 season, which is made up of seven races from June to September, including the prestigious Madison Regattas, the Guntersville Hydrofest and the Bayfair races in San Diego.
“Grand Prix America is very excited to work with the Hydroplane Racing League as both organizations seek to promote and grow the sport of powerboat racing around the world. With the two organizations working cooperatively to achieve the same goals, this is a pivotal moment to be part of the Grand Prix category in hydroplane racing, ”said Dean Rojas, President of Grand Prix America.
More information on this developing partnership will be announced in the coming weeks.
–
