International Thundercat Training and Valentine’s Trophy, Club Bentota from 10-14 February

Power boating is a fast, furious and glamorous international sport with a global following and the world governing body, the Union Internationale Motonautique has a series of large events all over the world. 

The island of Sri Lanka is an ideal new location for the sport and Lanka Powerboat Association (LPA) has been set up to promote and develop Powerboat racing in the country. LPA is developing a series of events to promote Sri Lanka on the power boating map and the sport’s global circuit. 

To launch Sri Lanka onto the international stage LPA has organised a team of six international Thundercat pilots to come to Sri Lanka to train local co-pilots in order to host the first-ever international Thundercat race in Sri Lanka.

Thundercat Racing is a one of the world’s most exhilarating water sports, accessible in over 18 countries with more joining. The primary purpose of a Thundercat is surf racing and they race at high speeds in surf of up to 5 metres and wind speeds up to 45 knots. 

Crews consist of a pilot and a co-pilot. The pilot drives from the rear of the Thundercat, while the co-pilot uses his weight to adjust the trim of the boat. Surf racing usually takes place as close to the shoreline as possible, ensuring an amazing spectacle for those on the shore, and fabulous racing for pilots and co-pilots. 

Thundercat Racing has mass appeal to all ages offering fantastic entertainment. Thousands of spectators now follow Thundercat Racing, which is positioning itself as one of the most prominent watersports of the 21st century.

The LPA is organising a five-day International Thundercat event at Club Bentota Hotel from 10-14 February. It will include two days of basic training followed by two days’ powerboat surf training and licensing, highlighting with a one-day UIM International surf race, the first international UIM event in Sri Lanka, concluding with a beach gala dinner with a cultural show and VIP awards ceremony. 

Lanka Powerboat Association is going to train six co-pilots to race with the professional pilots from the UK. Anybody interested in this training can call Sarah on 077 229 7506 or email [email protected].