The Syracuse Hydroplane Races are back!
June 20 & 21, 2009 - This event, presented by the Updowntowners of Syracuse, in conjunction with the Central New York Hydroplane Association, has been sanctioned by the American Power Boat Association and the Canadian Boating Federation. 

• Location:  Onondaga Lake Park
• Saturday, June 20; 9 am - 10 pm - Willow Bay, Onondaga Lake Park
• Sunday, June 21; 9 am - 6 pm - Willow Bay, Onondaga Lake Park

HISTORY
Interest in boats outfitted with internal combustion engines developed around the end of the nineteenth century.  By 1902, there were enough of these crafts around to stimulate discussions and people wanted to race their boats.  Given all the variations and capabilities, a system of rating and time allowance rules would need to be determined to handicap all boats equally.  In 1903, representatives of twenty yacht clubs met and adopted the name American Power Boat Association, set up a constitution, adopted rules and elected officers.  Though early rules were adequate, disputes arose between member clubs and to settle these, the first Racing Commission was established in 1913.  Through the years, programs have evolved to offer a great variety of racing classes to spectators and participants in the sport, from the spectacular unlimited class to the family runabout.  Over 200 regattas are sanctioned annually in the United States and Canada.  Nearly 3,000 racing boats are registered by the racing members.  Clubs, officials, and other classifications bring total membership to over 6,000.  Power boat racing on Onondaga Lake dates back to at least the 1950’s.  Syracuse Hydrofest will become the premier, annual boat racing event in the Northeast.