Two months before its 2010 season opener in Biloxi, Miss., the Offshore Super Series (OSS) announced the formation of the new Pro Cat class. The grouping will combine the former OSS Cat 750 and 850 classes to create a more competitive field.

“It was the desire of the teams racing in these classes to compete against a larger field of boats,” said OSS Chief Referee Mike Tomlinson in a press release. “Everyone recognizes that the combination of boats of varied sizes, ages and different engine packages will be difficult and a work in progress. I’d like to thank everyone involved in the meetings to make this class possible. As the season goes forward, we will continue to adapt to the needs of the class and adjust the rules accordingly.”

OSS Cat Extreme race boats may be able to compete in the new class as well, although entrants will be looked at on a boat-by-boat basis and some may be required to detune their engines in accordance with specific instructions from the OSS technical chairman. More information on the rules can be found at www.offshoresuperseries.com.

The organization also updated its Pro-Am class rules, adding new speed brackets and a new class called PX, which will be allowed to reach speeds of 125 mph. OSS will be requiring GPS on all Pro-Am class boats in hopes of making the rules and scoring consistent with other organizations. Earlier this year, OSS and Super Boat International (SBI) agreed to join forces at a handful of events for 2010. The first joint event will take place in Biloxi May 20-23.—Jason Johnson

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