The
Offshore Super Series was founded by a group of powerboat
racers for one thing, to provide the highest level of competition
for its members. During that time, fans of the sport have
consistently witnessed some of the closest races in every
class.
“OSS is proud to say we set the benchmark in safety,
quality and professionalism in offshore racing,” said
the organization’s executive director Misty Velasquez.
She said that she’s pleased with the year the organization
is having, but admits that 2007 is a “year of development.”
Fleet counts have hovered around 35 boats and fan turnout
has been strong, especially at new events.
Velasquez explained that previously at big cities such as
Las Vegas or Toronto, Canada, the races didn’t receive
the attention from the local media or tourism boards, but
by going into smaller markets where an OSS event takes center
stage, the organization has been well received. This year
at Biloxi, Miss., 15,000 people clicked the turnstiles at
Greers Ferry Ark., while the car count at Pickwick, Tenn.,
was more than 28,000.
“When you’re taking a new event to a large location,
it’s difficult to develop it and other successful motorsports
have shown it the same way,” Velasquez said. NASCAR,
Indy Car and drag racing have all proven this theory with
sites like Bristol, Tenn., Wilkes-Barre, Penn., and others.
In addition to drawing impressive numbers from the local fan
base, OSS hopes a new television contract with American Power
Boat Television that will air on Fox Sports Net will draw
viewers. The on-air talent will be the seasoned pair of Martin
Sanborn and Charlie Haimes, both of whom have been with OSS
since the organizations was formed. Series sponsors included
Reliable Carries, Goldson, Nolan, Connolly, P.C., Security
Race Products, Teague Custom Marine, Budweiser Select Offshore
Racing and Racing Communications.
Of course with any organization founded by competitors, not
everyone will always agree and such was the case when the
OSS introduced its new Super Cat 850 class this year. Some
competitors already campaigning the 750-hp engines didn’t
see the need for a change and a slight rift developed.
“One of the main goals is that the OSS has developed
ways to make offshore racing more economical and public-friendly
to help more people participate,” said Velasquez. She
explained that with the newer engines there should be fewer
breakdowns and rebuilds.
The result of the conflict was the formation of what is now
known as the Pro Series, which races at OSS, Pacific Offshore
Powerboat Racing Association, and Offshore Performance Association
events. “Any step toward progress should expect to be
confronted because it shakes the foundation of privilege,”
laughed Velasquez as she quoted something she read off the
wall of a Quaker village in Pennsylvania.
On a more serious note, Velasquez said all the members of
the Pro Series are OSS members in good standing. While she
said that she’s sure there are conversations around
the country about the sport unifying, she has been in discussions
with OPA and POPRA about joint events and is positive about
the future. “As long as we uphold the quality of racing,
we’re happy,” said Velasquez. Based on the organization’s
efforts so far, that won’t be a problem. |
