Driver School
Want to try something new? Something exhilarating? Bet you'll find that here...come take a ride with us.
 Beach Racing before the water |  Beach Racing 101 |  Final Instructions |
|---|---|---|
 Successful New Drivers! |  Success! |  Race the Instructor! |
 First Run! |  Taking a little spin around the lake |
2026 Driver School Information
TRORA regularly schedules driving schools in conjunction with our races. If you have questions or want to learn more about getting a ride in racing hydroplane, please contact us!
Our 2026 Driving School will held in conjunction with Kittanning Riverbration on Aug 14, 2026.
To Register - CLICK HERE
Driver School
So you're interested in APBA outboard racing but aren't certain what it's like? Check out an opportunity to drive an actual racing hydroplane boat!
The day begins around 9am at the lake on the beach learning about the boats, the safety gear, the layout of the race course on the water, and instruction on events of the day to come. Lasting roughly one hour, veteran racers spend time with the class covering a variety of information on safely participating in your boating adventure. After class time each student gets to suit up and take a few "hot" laps in an actual racing hydroplane and receive coaching on how to make the most of their experience. At the end of the day, time and weather permitting, students run side by side with their instructor for a taste of what a weekend racing feels like.
A $100 fee gets you on the water with us. This fee covers your weekend APBA membership, onsite Safety Personnel, TRORA membership and special access to the races for the remainder of that weekend.
Ride Along with a Junior Hydroplane Racer
tip: enlarge to full screen to read captions
What Should I Bring?
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“Wet Shoes” – Closed toed shoes that you will wear in the water. Old sneakers work best. No slipon’s (croc’s etc).
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Swimsuit/ shorts or long pants – You will be getting wet.
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Sunscreen
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Camera
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Lunch
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Bottles of Water or Sports Drinks
What Is It Like to Drive a Hydroplane?
Hydroplanes are different than nearly any other boat you've driven or ridden in. The boats have a shallow tunnel under the boat, and the boat rides on top of a cushion of air. As a result, the sensation is like 'flying' over the water!