Performance boating is one of the most breathtaking, high-voltage experiences you're ever likely to encounter. On the water, it's the only way to slake that seemingly unquenchable thirst for speed. Delivering spine-tingling, adrenaline-punching thrills and flat-out fun, performance boating creates a special camaraderie - whether you sign up for a poker run, go racing or simply enjoy hammering the throttles on your favorite body of water.

The minute you pick up your first copy of Poker Runs America, you become part of a performance elite that has fueled one of the fastest growing sports in the history of recreational boating. Inside each issue, you'll find action-packed editorial and spectacular color photography, providing an in-depth look at the latest in boat-building technology and the men and women who epitomize top-end muscle.

On the following pages, for example, we test three top contenders on the go-fast circuit - Velocity's hot new 410 equipped with twin 675 hp Keith Eickert engines, Spectre's 36-foot Poker Run cat powered by twin Yanmar diesels, and the sleek, black-hulled Formula 400 SS. Our "Woman in Power" this month is Lisa Beilman, driver of the Christie's Photographics offshore race team. What's more, our cover feature profiles offshore's favorite "party pirate" - David Branch of Muscle Racing, one of the most flamboyant characters on the national race scene.

Not to forget the power that makes it all possible, we take an intricate look at the oil that pulses through your engine. From the sump to the oil cooler and passages in the heads and block, the pressure and condition of this fluid is no less important to your engine than blood is to your heart. We also show how modern-day synthetic oils can be a wise choice for the demanding environments of high performance engines.

True to our name, we haven't forgotten one of the best venues for performance boating fun. From full coverage of our inaugural Ft. Myers event in May and last season's APRA-sanctioned Lake Texoma Poker Run, organized by Texas-based Highport Resort and Marina, to our articles on the latest in tech, Poker Runs America proves once and for all that performance boaters really are born to run! ( Top )