Huntsville Model Boating Association (HMBA) was formed in 1981 by a group of model boating enthusiasts who saw a need for organized boating events and racing competitions in the Huntsville area. HMBA is located in District 5 of the International Model Power Boat Association (IMPBA). IMPBA is the governing body which sets the rules and regulations under which HMBA competitions are run. IMPBA also provides HMBA's group insurance coverage. Huntsville Model Boating Association's main goal is to foster good sportsmanship and have fun through model boat racing. Club races are held on average once a month, and several IMPBA Time Trials and District 5 races are also conducted by HMBA. Once a year, IMPBA conducts the 'granddaddy' of all competitions, the IMPBA International Regatta, or Internats. IMPBA racers from all over North America meet to do battle during the week-long event. National Champions (US-1) are crowned at the end of the competition. Huntsville has been the site to 7 past Internats, including the 1999 Internats competition, celebrating IMPBA's 50th Anniversary, as well as the first ever IMPBA Gas Internats competition held in July of 2000.
Much like full scale racing boat competitions, model boats are piloted around a race course that is defined with the use of buoys. Sophisticated timing equipment is used for tracking lap counts and finishing positions. Boats are controlled from shore by drivers using radio transmitters. Several heat races within each class are run--usually 6 or 8 laps. The heat race winners then meet in a final race to determine the overall class champion of the meet.
Many model boats are scaled down copies of actual full-size boats while others are lightweight high-tech marvels that are purpose-built for high speed. Most boats are constructed of fiberglass and laid up in molds just like full size boats. Some are handcrafted using wood laminates while others are built using strong, lightweight composite materials such as carbon fiber or Kevlar. There are many different sizes and types of model boats, and overall speeds vary between boats based on hull design, weight, engine choice, set-up, and driving ability. Some of the very fastest model boats have been clocked at over 100 mph! Engines are fueled by a blend of methanol, oil, and up to 60% nitromethane. Many of these powerful engines operate at over 30,000 rpm, developing up to 6 horsepower. There are IMPBA classes for most every combination of boat type and engine size, insuring close competition and fairness within each class.
If you would like further information about HMBA, IMPBA or model boating in general, please feel free to contact:
All events are held at Brahan Spring Park Lagoon, a beautiful 35-acre lake near downtown Huntsville. We have provided 3 maps to guide you to Huntsville and to the event site. Spectators are always welcome, so make plans to attend the next event and experience the excitement of model boat racing!
Please direct all inquiries about this site to
HMBA webmaster
