On 5–7 September 2025, the National Boat Racing Association (NBRA) concluded its season at Vandalia Lake, Illinois, with championships for C Stock Hydro, E Hydro, and Super E Runabout, as well as the National High Point finale.
The NBRA sanctions outboard hydroplane and runabout racing in the United States. Competitors pilot 10- to 13-foot kneel-down boats, typically made of wood or lightweight composites, powered by stock and modified outboard engines producing 15–100 horsepower. These boats reach speeds of 50–100 mph on short oval courses with up to 12 boats per heat.
The E Hydro class, featured at Vandalia, is among the fastest and most challenging categories due to its speeds and close racing conditions.
The Vandalia event followed the NBRA National Championships in Centralia, Illinois, where weather delays forced some finals, including E Hydro, to be contested at Vandalia. The event was held alongside the US Title Series, with $5,000 in tow money offered.
Erica Stone’s Blowover
During an E Hydro heat, racer Erica Stone was involved in a blowover, the accident occurred at high speed, and Stone sustained a broken arm.
The race program continued after the crash, with NBRA officials enforcing safety procedures and ensuring Stone received medical attention.
The Event at Vandalia Lake
Beyond the incident, the Vandalia race showcased top competitors.
Braxton Miller led the National High Point standings with 15,550 points, followed by Matthew Bowden with 13,420.
The event drew significant local interest, with support from Vandalia Mayor Doug Knebel. Amenities such as food trucks and camping facilities contributed to strong attendance.
John Moore’s involvement in powerboat racing began in 1981 when he competed in his first offshore powerboat race. After a career as a Financial Futures broker in the City of London, specialising in UK interest rate markets, he became actively involved in event organisation and powerboat racing journalism.
He served as Event Director for the Cowes–Torquay–Cowes races between 2010 and 2013. In 2016, he launched Powerboat Racing World, a digital platform providing global powerboat racing news and insights. The following year, he co-founded UKOPRA, helping to rejuvenate offshore racing in the United Kingdom. He sold Powerboat Racing World in late 2021 and remained actively involved with UKOPRA until 2025.
In 2025, he established Powerboat News, returning to independent journalism with a focus on neutral and comprehensive coverage of the sport.