History

Offshore Model Racing Association

Different classes have been introduced to allow the many different types and sizes of engine to compete together on equal terms.

The quest for the fastest, most stable boat/engine combination continues to this day, with improvements being made every year. Fortunately for the racers' pockets, this does not mean having to continually purchase the latest design of boat or engine. Quite often a slower, more stable boat will be able to keep going and win the race.

The first ever UK offshore model race was held at Torquay in 1967. It was a local event which although not widely publicised, attracted 12 enthusiasts. Over the following few years entries grew and races at Folkestone, Canvey Island and Port Talbot were added to the racing calendar.

Interest in this new form of boat racing steadily increased, and by 1971 it was felt that some sort of club or association was needed to look after the interests of offshore model racing. A "steering committee" was elected and in August 1971, the first meeting of the "Offshore Model Racing Association" took place.

The early race meetings were all "chase boat" events, which means that full size boats are used to carry the competitor controlling the model boat. As this was proving both difficult and expensive to organise, an alternative form of racing was tried out. "Endurance" racing was introduced and proved just as popular with both the racers and the organisers.

Since that time, many changes have taken place. The races are held on a wide variety of different venues, from the rough waves of large lakes and the open sea, to smaller, more sheltered lakes which rarely have high waves. This allows a huge variety of different boats to be competitive, as no single design is ideal for all locations.