News Week In The Powerboat Nation—August 1-8

Offshore racing action returns to the heartland for the second consecutive weekend with the third annual Mercury Racing Midwest Challenge in Sheboygan, Wis. Meanwhile, the Florida Powerboat Club is leading a group of Nor-Tech owners on an adventure through the Bahamas. Also this weekend, the Rocky Top Power Run kicks off its third year on Kentucky’s Lake Norris. And that’s just the most recent news—there’s been plenty this week. Scroll down to find out what you missed.

Friday, August 8

Vision Marine And Nautical Ventures Back Shaun Torrente Racing For 2025 Super Stock Season

With a checkered flag last weekend and new sponsors/collaborators coming into this weekend’s races, Shaun Torrente Racing is on a roll.

With a checkered flag last weekend and new sponsors/collaborators coming into this weekend’s races, Shaun Torrente Racing is on a roll. Photo by Jeff Helmkamp/Helmkamp Photos.

Midwest Challenge 2025—Schedule And Viewing Essentials

The third annual Mercury Racing Midwest Challenge returns to Sheboygan, Wis., this weekend.

Thursday, August 7

PBN News—The Blessed Crossing To Bimini

Bimini water looks like a Pixar product—if it weren’t real you’d swear it were fake.

Why The New Mercury Racing 15-Inch Outboard Mid-Section Is A Kind Of A Big Deal

Mercury Racing’s 15-inch mid-section for its four-stroke outboards has finally arrived. Here’s why it matters.

New Blind River Bar Team Ready For Midwest Challenge

New Blind River Bar teammates Dustin Clouatre and Darby Melancon of Louisiana are eager to compete in Bracket Class 700 this weekend in Sheboygan, Wis.

Nor-Tech At 35—The Bahamas Escape Begins

Though several Nor-Tech owners ran their Nor-Tech consoles in the Florida Powerboat Club’s June trip to the Bahamas, this time around the adventure is an exclusive Nor-Tech affair.

Wednesday, August 6

PBN Exclusive—Saved In The Nick Of Time

Offshore racing’s premiere safety team saved Ricky Maldonado’s life last Sunday.

Commentary—Powerboat Nation And Speed On The Water in Motion With A.I.

From one still image above, Powerboat Nation used A.I. to create an imbedded video.

Tuesday, August 5

PBN Exclusive—Why Sheboygan Rocks

Sheboygan is among the idyllic and fan-friendly venues in the sport.

KICKER Marine Audio Selling Direct To Powerboat-Builders

Powerboat builders now have direct access to KICKER Marine Audio’s extensive product line.

Powerboat builders now have direct access to KICKER Marine Audio’s extensive product line.

LEOPA Thunderfest Hot On The Comeback Trail

On the rebound with a new location and some serious hardware.

Monday, August 4

PBN Exclusive— A Center Console That Whistles A Fine Tune

In the hands of a thoughtful and responsible driver, the Cigarette 41 SDD center console with 2,200 hp under its hatches delivers a delightful ride.

Extra Effort Leads to Positive Results At The XINSURANCE Great Lakes Grand Prix

At the XINSURANCE Great Lakes Grand Prix, teams that put in the work leading up to the race reaped the rewards. 

Thunder In The City Poker Run Deals A Pretty Hand

Flawless water and weather conditions greeted last weekend’s Thunder In The City Poker Run fleet.

Flawless water and weather conditions greeted last weekend’s Thunder In The City Poker Run fleet. Photo by Shane DeFries.

Sunday, August 3

2025 XINSURANCE Great Lakes Grand Prix Day No. 1 Results

Here’s a quick look at yesterday’s provisional results:

Great Lakes Grand Prix Attracts 63 Teams On ‘Sweet 16” Anniversary

The offshore racing season resumes in Michigan City, Ind.

Saturday, August 2

Sunsation Delivers Its Brightest Sun Run Yet

From start to finish, the fourth annual Sunsation Sun Run was a Michigan-made hit.

Friday, August 1

PBN Exclusive—Welcome To August

The fourth annual Sunsation Boats Sun Run has the events of August off to a great start.

Can Factory Billet Reach 190 MPH?

Jim Schultz and Mike Faucher are shooting for a 190-mph pass this month.

Sunsation Reunion Takes It To The Streets Of New Baltimore

A celebration of brand like no other.

Digging Deep On Long Island With Glimpy’s Clam Boys

A Deep Impact adventure.

Compiled by Matt Trulio