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 has a longstanding involvement in event organisation and powerboat racing journalism. He organised the historic Cowes–Torquay–Cowes races between 2010 and 2013 and was actively involved with British offshore racing from 2017 until 2025.
In 2017, Moore founded Powerboat Racing World, a digital platform providing global powerboat racing news, insights, and event coverage.
He is now Editor of Powerboat.News, continuing to contribute to the sport’s media landscape with in-depth reporting and analysis.