Hydrofest: Up close and personal

Video by Jack Fichter
“Congratulations,” the letter said, “you are one of the people that will enjoy the thrill of a Jersey Speed Skiff ride during opening ceremonies of the Wildwood Hydrofest.”
When I was asked if I’d like to participate in the Hydrofest, of course, I said yes. I love boats, love being out on the water. Catching a fish or two is my idea of relaxation. Hydrofest performance boat racing–this would definitely be something new.
I arrived at the event ahead of schedule and was warmly welcomed at the VIP tent by Ann Fitzgerald, event coordinator. Everyone was telling me how much I would enjoy the ride. (Did I look like I needed reassurance?)
Off to the hot pits I go to meet up with Martha Atkins who introduced me to my driver, Rob Garratano and one of the co-owners of the skiff, Tom Tamburella. Rob was busy with last minute checks so Tom told me a little about the boat.
“Smoke on the Water” is a Jersey Speed Skiff, (16 feet long, about 26 inches in depth) less than 2 months old, built in memory of Robin Marie Tamburella, Tom’s wife who passed away in February. Inside the boat there is a ‘tattoo’ that reads “Fly Robin Fly.”
This event was the skiff’s second appearance in a sanctioned race and would be competing in two heats Saturday and two on Sunday.
Driver Rob Garratano got the racing bug at age 8 from his grandfather, George Wolcott, who built Jersey Speed Skiffs the old fashioned way, out of wood.
Rob has been involved in racing events since he was 16. These days, Rob refurbishes skiffs along with building new ones and calls the boats he works on ‘his kids.’
The newer designs must include the traditional features. Fiberglass sides look like wood planks. There is still a front well and the boat is a two-seater.
Skiffs always have a rider who assists the driver. Jersey Speed Skiffs generally run V8 engines up to speeds of 80 mph. Last year at the antique boat races in Lake George, Rob took first place in a boat built by his grandfather that he had refurbished.
Martha helped me get suited up with a helmet and knee-length life jacket (more like a padded wet suit). Then she gave me an American flag and told me to “hang on to it.”
Now, I am nervous. Add to everything else I was thinking, “What happens if it gets away from me?”
I took a breath and made note of my surroundings. Crowded. Noisy and bustling. People moving quickly but with courtesy and friendship. Equipment borrowed, advice shared, camaraderie first, competition second…until you’re out on the water.
It’s time. The boat is moved by trailer to the edge of Sunset Lake and hoisted into the water.
Once in place, we climb in. I am secured by a harness similar to those on an amusement ride and I take note of the roll bar. I am so excited and thrilled to be here but it did cross my mind: “How do I get out if it flips?”
In a heartbeat, we’re off. I watch the boat racing along side us leaning way over but I felt very secure. The noise of the engine is exhilarating and I am so proud to be holding onto the flag. I know I am laughing. We will take four laps around the course.
What? This can’t be the end. I was ready for more speed, well maybe just a little more, and certainly a longer ride.
Safely back on the dock, Rob tells me that we were up to speeds about 60-65 mph.
“Ah, he took it easy on you,” Tom said.
“Definitely a six-ticket ride,” I said. And yes, I would absolutely do it again.