PWC DIGEST
RECREATIONAL BOATING CONTINUES TO RISE
According to recently released figures from the National Marine Manufacturers Association, recreational boating appears to be continuing its rise. Retail unit sales overall for the second quarter of 2004 were up 7% compared to the same period one year prior; for those of you keeping track, that’s the fourth consecutive quarter of growth. While the biggest gainer was inboard cruisers at 18%, both jet drive boats and personal watercraft continued to show respectable gains, with boats up 13% and PWC up 6%.
Florida continued to lead the way in terms of boat, motor, trailer, and boating accessory purchases at $1.5 billion overall, followed by California, Texas, Michigan and Minnesota.
APBA HOSTS FORUM
The American Powerboat Association is in the final stages of accepting applications for PWC racers, promoters, and aftermarket reps to participate in a private forum to discuss rule changes for the 2005 season. The invitation-only forum is designed to discern what is in the best interest of racers in the United States, and present that information to the International Jet Sport Boating Association, other international affiliates, and
the APBA’s racing members.
Those interested in participating in the forum can make their pitch in 100 words or less and include their name, APBA member number, region or company, years in the sport, and years racing. Send all info to Patrick Mell at patrick@apba-racing.com.
WORLD FINALS ON TV
The International Jet Sport Boating Association recently announced the airtmes for Dos Equis Desert XX. Viewers can catch the complete show on November 17th at 4 p.m. Coverage airs on FOX Sports Net.
