About the Race

Since it’s humble beginnings in New Zealand 25 years ago V8 Jetsprint racing has developed into one of the most exciting forms of motor sport that exists today. Likened to rally driving on water, the boats can accelerate from 0 to 160km’s in under two seconds while completing 180 degree corners pulling 5-6 G’s similar to those found in a F-111 fighter jet.

It is a visual spectacular unseen in any other form of motor sport that translates well not only to the spectator but to a wider television audience. On the back of this incredible excitement the world of V8 Jetsprinting is continually growing in popularity around the world. There are tracks and National Championships held in New Zealand, Australia and The United States of America every year.

The Boats

Likened to putting a drag car engine in your average Aussie aluminium dinghy, the boats themselves are unusual in their design and are built especially for this sport. They are made of aluminium and weigh between 450 and 600 kilograms. With some engines producing up to 1200 horsepower it provides an amazing power to weight ratio virtually unseen in any other motor sport.

Steering is through a rear nozzle which directs the jet unit output. There is no rudder and the boat can only steer when power is applied. Boat jet units have a water throughput of up to 2800 litres per minute. This gives them incredible maneuverability enabling them to turn 180 degree corners at speeds unseen before.

Want To Go Jetsprinting & Wondering how to get started?

The first step is to mail us through our website e-mail link This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it and we will make sure that you are contacted by someone who can answer all your questions.

If you want to progress, the A.F.J.S.A. will align you with a competitor in the category of your choice who will induct you into the sport and make sure that you fully understand the rules and important information needed to race.

*These rules can be found on our website home page under “AFJSA Rule Book”. The minimum age for competitors is 16 years for a driver and 14 years for a navigator.

Generally part of our “Buddy” induction programme is to take you for a paid ride ($180.00 for two hot laps) in a boat so that you can experience what it’s like at race speed and decide if this is what you want to do. * Most independent Jetsprint clubs have “Practice” days where you can learn to drive under supervision. Check the home page of our website under the “Tracks” menu to find the nearest club to you.

We have three categories of racing and the mechanical limitations for each are outlined on our website home page under “AFJSA Rule Book”. These three categories are best summarised as follows:-

350 Class

This is our entry level category designed to allow people with limited budgets to go Jetsprinting. These boats have a maximum engine capacity of up to 350 cubic inches and are generally Chevrolet engines with very controlled specifications to keep all competitors within the same horsepower and performance range. Price range can be from $30k for a second hand boat ready to race with occasional cheaper opportunities.

Group A

These boats have a maximum engine capacity of up to 412 cubic inches and must comply with international Group A standards and can have up to 200 more horsepower than a 350 Class boat. Price range can be from $50k for a second hand boat ready to race with occasional cheaper opportunities.

Superboats

This category is not for the feint hearted or people with a shoe string budget as it allows any boat size, type and configuration with any engine size, type and configuration and there are currently competitors with up to 1400hp engines.  Before you can race a Superboat you must be able to show proof of prior Jet Sprint experience with 6 meetings minimum as a driver in Group A without restriction.  Price range can be from $80k for a second hand boat ready to race with occasional cheaper opportunities.

Membership & Licenses

You will need to be a financial member of the AFJSA and have a current race license and this also applies for your navigator. In special instances, day licenses can be acquired but only for first up competitors trying before buying and Navigators who have been required at short notice. * Individual independent club membership is at your discretion and encouraged and these clubs and contacts can be found through the “Tracks” menu on our website Home page.

Entry Fees

All race events are run by independent track promoters and an entry fee to compete is mandatory as this helps cover the running costs that include safety crews, Ambulance, Fire Brigade etc.

Personal Safety Equipment

Both driver and navigator must have the appropriate helmets, 2 layer driving suits, gloves, boots, balaclava, neck braces and arm restraints etc as per the rules so you will need to budget for approximately $2,000,00 per person based on generic brands.

Did You Know?

Every boat is allowed two teams per event! That means you can have two drivers and two navigators and double the fun! This also means that if you are wondering how to find the money to get into this fantastic sport, why not find three friends with the same passion to go racing and share the costs!

Fun For All The Family

Because our events are spread over a large geographical area, camping at each venue is part of the sports attraction. Most of the teams are a family affair and the social atmosphere before, during and after racing is always worth the travelling.

Business Opportunities

With the support of high profile sponsors, televised coverage, increased media attention and the fact that Jetsprint racing is one of the most spectacular forms of motorsport, it has increased our track corporate areas and signage interest at every event. If you have a business then there are great marketing and networking opportunities for you and your company and a great way to entertain those special clients.
So what’s stopping you? Make contact now, join the most exciting motorsport in the world and enjoy the ride of your life.