Exciting New Racing Action Coming to Cocoa Beach
If you’ve ever dreamed of racing across the waves or simply soaking in the thrills of high-speed competition, you’re in for a treat, Space Coast! For the first time, Cocoa Beach will host outboard-powered inflatable catamaran raceboats as part of the Thunder on Cocoa Beach event from May 14 to 17. This exciting expansion, featuring the popular ThunderCat fleet, is part of Round 3 of the inaugural IHRA Offshore National Championship Series and promises to deliver adrenaline-pumping entertainment right here in Brevard County.
Picture this: the sun glistening off the Atlantic, the roar of engines, and the sight of sleek ThunderCats zipping through the water. Saturday morning will kick off with a day of testing, practice, and qualifying for these unique vessels, while race action continues Sunday. Leah Martin, president of the IHRA, shared her excitement about the addition, stating, “ThunderCat racing brings intensity, accessibility, and true affordability—most importantly, they’re just plain fun!” This fresh inclusion is not only fantastic for seasoned racers but also opens the door for newcomers eager to dive into the world of competitive powerboating.
Now, you might be wondering: what exactly is a ThunderCat? These inflatable catamarans are about 13 feet long and weigh roughly 200 pounds. Powered by outboard motors ranging from 40 to 90 horsepower, they can hit impressive speeds of over 60 mph—definitely not for the faint of heart! Each boat is designed with safety in mind, featuring six independently inflated chambers to keep them afloat even if punctured. It’s a sport that embodies both thrill and safety, making it an excellent choice for our local waters.
The roots of ThunderCat racing trace back to South Africa, but it’s gained popularity around the globe, including the UK, Australia, and now right here on our very own Space Coast. Local competitor Ryan Stevens, part of Team Reckless Abandonment, will make his ThunderCat debut at Cocoa Beach with co-driver Lamar Weldon. He’s thrilled to bring his experience from the IHRA Professional Watercraft Series to this new challenge. With support from reputed manufacturers like Aquarius Inflatable Thundercats USA, the stage is set for an electrifying weekend!
So, mark your calendars and get ready for a weekend filled with fast boats and fierce competition! Whether you’re a lifelong racing fan or just looking for a weekend adventure, Thunder on Cocoa Beach is sure to be a highlight for Brevard County. What do you think, Space Coast? Drop your thoughts below.