The Formula 1 Powerboat Championship is an 8-race series contested across North America. US Powerboat racing has a 120-year heritage that began with the formation of the American Powerboat Association. For the last six decades, F1 powerboats have been recognized as one of the world’s most spectacular racing vehicles. This Powerboat event provides a prime opportunity for Shreveport-Bossier to highlight its expertise in hosting water-based sporting events, drawing more visitors to our vibrant city.

“We are looking forward to bringing Powerboats back to the Red River and Shreveport-Bossier in 2024-2026,” says Sara Nelms, Director of Sports for the Shreveport-Bossier Sports Commission. “We are excited to host this event in conjunction with Mudbug Madness and showcase the world class Formula 1 drivers! Thank you to the Red River Waterway Commission and Margaritaville Resort Casino that have already come on as sponsors for the event.”

 

The Red River Rumble F1 Powerboat Showdown will happen the same weekend as Mudbug Madness 2024 in Festival Plaza in downtown Shreveport. This F1 Powerboat event will present viewers with heart pounding, up close and personal, racing action in downtown Shreveport, and will enhance the Mudbug Madness experience for festival goers. General admission viewing is also free to the public and there will also be a VIP area at the Shreveport Aquarium and tickets will go on sale at a later date.

“On behalf of the Mudbug Madness Festival, we are excited that Formula 1 Powerboat Racing will be taking place the same weekend as our festival on the Shreveport Riverfront,’ says Terri Matthews, Event Coordinator for Mudbug Madness. “Our mission is to support and promote projects and events to enhance downtown and the synergy this will bring will do just that.”

 

The competition begins with 20 boat fields lined up awaiting the start. At the drop of the flag, the drivers ignite their engines and accelerate towards the first turn. This spectator-friendly event provides non-stop racing action due to the tight courses which are made up of right and left-hand turns. No two laps are the same due to the changing wind and water conditions, making the F1 boat one of the most challenging racing machines to conquer.

“The Commission is excited to announce its participation in the F1 Powerboat Championship Series in 2024! Our primary objective is to promote the economic and recreational development of the Waterway,” says Dustin Hayes, Marketing Director for the Red River Waterway Commission. “Events like this, held in conjunction with Mudbug Madness, help raise awareness and showcase the recreational opportunities available along the Waterway. We highly value our ongoing partnership with the Shreveport-Bossier Sports Commission and eagerly anticipate future collaborations as we serve the people of Caddo-Bossier and the surrounding areas encompassing the Red River Waterway District.”

In addition to the riveting races, the event will feature a family-friendly atmosphere, complete with an open pit area that allows fans to meet the drivers and get a close look at the machines they drive. This opportunity to connect with the sport and its athletes adds an extra layer of excitement for attendees of all ages.

“We’re excited to be the exclusive casino sponsor for the Red River Rumble F1 Powerboat Showdown in 2024,” says Dan Ihm, General Manager and Senior Vice President for Margaritaville Bossier City. “This sponsorship reflects our commitment to boosting community engagement and economic growth, while bringing the pulse-pounding excitement of high-speed boat racing to Shreveport-Bossier. Get ready for a weekend of Margaritaville-style thrills!”

 

The Red River Rumble F1 Powerboat Showdown promises to be an exhilarating blend of high-speed competition and family-friendly entertainment. Boating enthusiasts and community members are invited to join for a memorable weekend of powerboat racing along the Red River in Shreveport-Bossier.

Powerboat racing has a rich history in the United States, dating back to 1903. Formula One racing, in particular, has gained prominence over the past five decades, captivating audiences around the world with its lightning-quick speeds and heart-stopping turns. Tim Seebold, a former racer, has been instrumental in organizing the series, contributing to its tremendous growth and popularity.

Let’s dive into the thrilling 2023 season. Surprisingly, Terry Rinker did not dominate the race as he typically does. While he achieved a respectable four sprint heat wins, it fell short of his accustomed triumphs. In fact, Rinker failed to win any of the finals this year, with his best finish being a second place at the F1 GROVE BOATS, BEATS, & BBQ 2023. In the remaining three races, he settled for third place, including the Havasu Classic.

This season proved once again that consistency wins championships, a lesson Terry Rinker, the seasoned 60+ year old veteran, knows all too well. Despite not claiming any of the finals, Rinker’s consistent finishes throughout the season ultimately secured the championship for him.

Dylan Anderson, the winner of the 2023 Lake Havasu Classic, fought hard to keep his championship dreams alive. With just a few laps remaining in the final race, it seemed as though Anderson might finally triumph. However, Rinker’s strategic pass of his teammate Jeremiah Mayo in the closing laps dashed Anderson’s hopes. When the points were tallied, Rinker emerged victorious with 932 points, while Anderson settled for second place with 927 points. The third-place spot was claimed by Chris Rinker, Terry’s cousin, who started on pole in the Havasu Classic event.

Throughout the season, a total of seven different drivers won heats or finals in the North American Formula One Powerboat Championship. Dylan Anderson proved to be the most successful, securing victories in the final races held in Port Neches, Texas, and the Lake Havasu Classic. However , Anderson’s chance for the championship slipped away at the LOTO POWERFEST, where he finished a disappointing 13th. Ultimately, his four heat wins and two final victories were not enough to surpass the consistency of Terry Rinker.

The Phase Three Performance Hoffman F1 Composites F1 / F200 race boat, and owned by Jim Slack, played a significant role in Rinker’s success. It once again demonstrated its exceptional performance, carrying Rinker to the top of the championship standings.

Congratulations are in order for Terry Rinker, Jim Slack, and the entire team for their superb season in the 2023 Formula One Powerboat Championship. Their unwavering dedication and skill have solidified their place among the top powerboat racing competitors, continuing to thrill fans with their incredible displays of speed and precision

For the full results of the 2023 Formula One Powerboat Championship, please visit https://f1powerboatchampionship.com/

Full list with points here ( 2023 F1 Championship )

In the first race of the season held at Port Niches Texas, Dylan Anderson demonstrated his unmatched skills by winning all three heats and ultimately claiming the grand final. This impressive feat earned him a maximum of 300 points and set the tone for the rest of the season.

Although Anderson faced some challenges in the subsequent rounds, he showed great resilience and determination. In round 2, the F1 LOTO Powerfest, he managed to secure a third-place finish in heat 1. In round 3, the F1 Grove Boats, Beats, & BBQ race, Anderson regained his pace and clinched victory in heat 3, leading to a commendable third-place finish overall.

The season’s final race, the F1 Lake Havasu Classic, was a testament to Anderson ‘s exceptional racing abilities. Starting the event with a solid second-place finish, he further showcased his skill in heat 2, finishing fourth. In the final race, Anderson started in P2, just behind Chris Rinker in Pole, and in front of championship leader Terry Rinker in P3. Rusty Wyatt started in P4, while heat 1 winner RJ West began in P5.

From the start, RJ West took an early lead but was later penalized for not maintaining his lane. Seizing this opportunity, Dylan Anderson made a bold move in the first corner, advancing to second place before the first lap was even completed. While Chris Rinker slipped back in the field, Jeremiah Mayo impressed with his exceptional driving skills. Terry Rinker, initially in fifth place, steadily climbed up and finished the race in an impressive third place.

Rusty Wyatt showcased his mastery over his Moore hull, delivering a flawless performance that secured him a deserving second-place finish in the Lake Havasu Classic.

Dylan Anderson’s performance at the Lake Havasu Classic showcased his determination to claim the 2023 championship title. As the laps dwindled, Terry Rinker made a remarkable move, passing his teammate Jeremiah Mayo, and sealing a third-place finish.

With his outstanding performance in the Lake Havasu Classic, Dylan Anderson has solidified his position as a top contender in the 2023 championship.

Lake Havasu Classic

P1 Dylan Anderson

P2 Rusty Wyatt

P3 Terry Rinker

P4 Jeremiah Mayo

P5 RJ West

P6 Shaun Love

Jose Mendana Jr. emerged as the champion in the Formula Light class, dominating the Lake Havasu Classic. Meanwhile, Dustin Terry, the skilled winner in the Tri Hull category, executed a remarkable last lap maneuver to secure a thrilling victory in the beloved class that had the crowd on their feet.