Episode 60- Powerboat Talk with Next-Gen Circle Boat Racers Nash Thorpe, Travis Hill, and Nick Balayan
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Rookie Racers Take on Flatbottom Circle Boat Racing
In this episode of Powerboat Talk, we spotlight three new faces in the world of flatbottom circle boat racing, Nash Thorpe, Nick Balayan, and Travis Hill, as they share their experiences from their first competitive event at the Southern California Speedboat Club’s season opener in Parker, Arizona.
These first-year racers open up about how they got started in competitive powerboat racing and what it felt like to transition from high-speed recreational boating to the intense, side-by-side action of a real race. They talk about the nerves and adrenaline of race day, the rookie mistakes that taught them valuable lessons, and how racing against some of the sport’s best drivers was a game-changer compared to just running a boat hard on a lake or river.
Throughout the conversation, they reflect on the challenges they had to overcome, everything from preparing their equipment and understanding race logistics to dealing with self-doubt and the financial obstacles that often come with a debut season. Their stories also highlight the importance of community support and mentorship within the racing scene, as well as how their shared journey built genuine friendships that made the entire experience possible.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about getting into circle boat racing or simply looking to hear inspiring stories from passionate newcomers. Whether you're a longtime fan of powerboat competition or someone considering diving into the sport, you’ll gain insight into what it takes to hit the water as a rookie, and why these racers are just getting started.
Follow Nick Balayan on Instagram @nickbalayan138
Follow Nash Thorp on Facebook @Nash Thorp
Follow Travis Hill on Instagram @blownflat_trav
To learn more about Circle Boat Racing, visit the Southern California Speedboat Club online @ www.scscracing.com
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