California’s RJ West Sets Four New Speed Records in Thrilling Powerboat Racing Weekend
Powerboat racing enthusiasts have a new reason to celebrate as California’s own RJ West made waves by setting four new speed records in a stunning display of skill and precision. Riding high on a successful previous year, West proved that meticulous testing and dedication to the craft and his 250 Mercury Racing APX engine can lead to unprecedented success on the water.
The weekend kicked off with challenging conditions, as West faced gusty winds and tumultuous waters on Saturday. Despite the odds, West and his team took to the water with a clear objective in mind. “It was not perfect, but we set/broke four records,” West shared with Powerboat Racing World. His words captured the grit and determination that characterized the weekend’s efforts.
West’s first feat of the weekend came in the form of the Formula 200 kilo record. Battling through “white capping” conditions, West managed to achieve speeds of 127.7 and 137.07 mph, achieving an impressive average of 131.93 mph. The second record came soon after in the USF1 kilo category, where West navigated the challenging waters to record speeds of 126.6 and 139.46 mph, averaging 132.72 mph.
The unpredictability of mother nature took a turn on Sunday, presenting West with a new set of challenges. The waters turned eerily calm, lacking even a ripple, which created a different test for West and his boat.
“Sunday went absolutely dead flat with no ripple,” he explained. “I would sponson walk unless I went up with the motor so then I would run dry.” Despite these conditions, West’s relentless pursuit of excellence paid off as he set two more records—quarter mile runs at blistering speeds of 133.73 and 131.87 mph.
Reflecting on the weekend’s accomplishments, West noted the delicate balance required in powerboat racing. “This shows how picky we are as boat racers,” he remarked. “Too rough, too smooth.” Yet through all the fluctuations, West’s skill and dedication shone brightly.
Ever the perfectionist, West hinted at the potential for even greater speeds, saying,
“There is pretty easily 140 in it, but for another time, I suppose.”
With this in mind, the powerboat racing community eagerly awaits what’s next for this incredible athlete.
RJ West’s record-breaking feats over the weekend have left a mark on powerboat racing history, illustrating how tenacity and preparation can culminate in remarkable achievements.
West was quick to thank Dave at Dewald Propellers and the entire crew at Mercury Racing for their crucial role in his performance, emphasizing that such victories are a team effort.
Frode Sundsdal, owner of PowerboatRacingWorld.com, added his perspective: “No driver we know of tests more than RJ West. He uses data and has made more than 500 start practices. That’s why he is such a fast champion,” Sundsdal concluded.
As West continues to push the limits of speed and precision, we salute him for his incredible accomplishments and look forward to more record-breaking performances in the future.
