With more than 75 teams running boats from turbine catamarans to single-engine V-bottoms—most notably a healthy contingent of Super Vee Lights—the Offshore Powerboat Association (OPA) heads into 2010 as the strongest and largest sanctioning body in the country. Though the organization is definitely rooted in the Northeast thanks to its founders, an ever-enthusiastic group of racers known as “The Jersey Boyz,” it attracts teams from around the country, and its eight-race schedule even includes two events in Michigan.

What’s more, thanks to GEICO and AMF Offshore Racing, OPA has a major title sponsor and television coverage for its 2010 season. Called the GEICO Offshore Racing Series and sanctioned by OPA, the series reportedly includes marketing support through local radio and television stations prior to each event.

For 2010, OPA also has a strong online media presence in the form of supercatracing.com, which will cover several OPA races in a two-camera format—a big move from last year’ single-camera “test run”—and broadcast them live in real-time on the website.

With help and support from well-known racer Gary Nichols, OPA will finish the 2010 season in October with its World Championship Races in Orange Beach, Ala. A popular venue, Orange Beach has hosted a number offshore races in the past.

Last but not least, the OPA fleet will have some international flair this season with a contingent from the Qatar Marine Sports Foundation as Sheikh Hassan bin Jabor Al-Thani plans to run two boats from the Spirit of Qatar team in the series.

Website: www.oparacing.org; www.oparacingtour.com

2010 Offshore Powerboat Association Schedule

*Schedule subject to change. Check OPA website to confirm.