Key Takeaways
- A jetboat crash occurred during the New Zealand Jetsprint Championship in Wairarapa, resulting in two injuries.
- The crash happened during a second qualifying run when the boat flipped off course and tumbled across the grass.
- The two injured individuals were transported to Wairarapa Hospital in moderate condition.
- The event organizer, NZ Jetsprint Association, confirmed the crash and stated that safety equipment and rescue crews responded promptly.
- The jetsprint championship features high-speed boats accelerating from 0-100 km/h in 1.6 seconds and reaching speeds of 140-150 km/h on a 150-metre long track.
Introduction to the Incident
A dramatic incident occurred at the New Zealand Jetsprint Championship in Wairarapa, where a jetboat crashed and flipped off course, injuring two people. The event, which took place at Tauherenikau Racecourse, is part of a national championship with six rounds contested throughout the country. The crash happened before 11 am, and eyewitnesses described the scene as the boat tumbled across the grass after losing control.
Details of the Crash
According to Richard Buckley, a spokesperson for the NZ Jetsprint Association, the crash occurred during a second qualifying run. Buckley explained that the boat "came round the bottom end, went in too deep, clipped a tyre that is for the exit channel, which put him into a barrel roll." This barrel roll sent the boat across the grass and into the safety fence at the far side. Buckley, who was one of the first on the scene, reported that the two injured individuals were "a bit banged up, but they’re okay."
Response and Safety Measures
The response to the crash was swift, with rescue crews reaching the boat in seconds. Buckley emphasized that all safety equipment did its job, and the injured individuals were able to walk away from the incident. The event had rescue crews positioned around the track, as well as onsite paramedics and ambulances on call. Buckley noted that while motorsport is inherently dangerous, the NZ Jetsprint Association has a good safety record. The incident highlights the importance of safety measures in high-speed events like jetsprint championships.
The Sport of Jetsprint
The jetsprint championship features high-performance boats that can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in approximately 1.6 seconds. The top boats, known as superboats, can reach speeds of 140-150 km/h on a 150-metre long track. The sport requires a combination of skill, strategy, and bravery, as drivers navigate the purpose-built track made up of islands. The championship consists of six rounds, with the fastest times determining the winners.
Conclusion and Outlook
The incident at the New Zealand Jetsprint Championship in Wairarapa serves as a reminder of the risks involved in high-speed motorsport. However, the prompt response of rescue crews and the effectiveness of safety equipment helped to minimize the consequences of the crash. As the championship continues, drivers and teams will be aware of the importance of safety measures and the potential risks involved in the sport. The NZ Jetsprint Association will likely review the incident and take any necessary steps to ensure the continued safety of participants and spectators.
