Is it normal to have that many “break outs” at an event? Or did the unusually strong current have a lot to do with it?

For us the current had everything to do with it. In Class 5 the competition is so tough we had to prop for the long streightways and for the upstream current, but that is racing, and we would not have it any other way.

A lot of teams prop for top speed against the current, thus going with it, you increase your odds of breaking out ten fold. Our class has a 105 mph top speed which our boat is propped for on little or no current. If the course was a little longer we would have possibly gone too fast, running against the current, we couldn't break 100 mph. What this shows me is that these gps systems are working, the current was about 5 mph minimum, and as bracket Racers we have credibiltity and accountability and the OPA will continue to grow. Would I be pissed if we broke out? Yes, at myself, and I would be a lot more careful next Race. Louie

It adds a little more skill to the team so you don't break out. We saw a 5mph difference with the current also. But kept a close eye on the speedo so not to go over that edge. Great race and site, can't wait for next time. Is NY this good?

Yes the current effected us too, that's why we broke out. Gps would jump 2 numbers or more at a time going with the current. boat is proped for acceleration. We're not mad but some tolerance should be acceptable depending on how long and fast your breakout was for. If you were 1mph for 2-3 seconds and going with a 7 mph current it should get looked at closely. We had a great time and ran good can't wait for NY.

The unusual current forced our rear main seal to fall out of the back of our 525. Thus causing our bilge to fill with oil. The pump dispursing this oil upon the Mighty St Clair River Caused the other boats to slip along faster than usual, causing all those breakouts. Sorry to have caused you all so much distress. Smitty

Ahhh, so that's why we spun out. The old James Bond oil spill trick!

I would think you guys would have had something in your Bat Utility belt to counter the effects of this? Is the dynamic duo slipping!! ouch sorry about the pun.
Louie

yea . . . the scuba tanks

I cant say that i really agree. the only way to be truly fair is to stick with the rules. if you start bringing in exceptions you bring in to much grey area. we all race under the same conditions and that is fair enough. yes it is tough running St Clair, i have to keep a close eye on the speedo down the back side of the course.