Powerboats to battle it out

The waters of False Bay are set to ignite on Saturday 12 July as the Gordon’s Bay Yacht Club hosts the 2025 Powerboat Racing False Bay Offshore Extreme, promising an adrenaline-fueled spectacle for marine motorsport enthusiasts and casual observers alike.

The high-octane event kicks off at 08:00, with racing action commencing at 09:30. This thrilling showdown will feature two exhilarating offshore racing disciplines designed to test both speed and endurance.

The Bikini Beach Offshore Circuit will provide fast-paced, close-quarters action right against the picturesque backdrop of Bikini Beach. Spectators can anticipate non-stop excitement as skilled drivers navigate tight turns, showcasing precision, control, and agility in a race blending strategy and raw speed. For those who crave endurance, the False Bay Offshore Long Haul will push both man and machine to their limits, covering a demanding stretch of open water.

Three powerboat classes – Stocks, Pro Stocks, and Modifieds – will participate in three heats of circuit racing off Bikini Beach, followed by an 80 km long-haul race. All three classes will run together in the long-haul, heading towards Macassar, turning at Steenbras Point, and returning to Gordon’s Bay Harbour.

The yacht club will be open from early Saturday morning to welcome teams and spectators. The anticipation is building, especially with several local teams geared up to compete:

Team S11 (Stock Class): The young guns to watch

This very young team comprises pilot Dylan Bamberger, aged 19, and co-pilot Carien Engelbrecht (15). Despite their youth, they are already a formidable force. Bamberger boasts an impressive record, having been crowned world champion, national champion, and a two-time Trans Agulhas winner, all in the Stock Class. Engelbrecht, a determined and talented co-pilot, has her sights set on major success in this year’s Trans Agulhas, the 2025 national championships, and on the world stage. This duo is certainly one to watch.

Team S3 (Stock Class): Seasoned competitors

Pilot Nikki du Bois, a former national champion in the Stock Class, is consistently a contender for a podium finish. Joined by new co-pilot Henco Pienaar, who is quickly adapting under Du Bois’s guidance, this team is expected to be a strong presence in the race.

Team M11 (Modified Class): Podium Aspirations

Three-time national champion Marc Gleed will pilot the M11, with his sights firmly set on a podium position at this event.

Team M32 (Modified Class): A team stepping up

The new pairing of pilot Rico Meyer and co-pilot Wynand de Wet have significantly enhanced their performance and equipment this year, with full preparations underway for the 2025 Trans Agulhas. Meyer’s rare passion for the sport and meticulous preparation make this a team definitely worth watching.

Team M17 (Modified Class): Brothers take on premier class

Brothers Jacques (pilot) and JP Mouton (co-pilot) have made the bold leap directly from the Stock Class to the premier Modified Class. Following successful outings in the Stock Class last year, they are determined to prove their mettle.