2006 Race Season

Having thousands of people on the shoreline filled with adrenaline and screaming while they graciously pass them in flight through the water is why they chose this adventure. The Predator Race Team started their first race season with a victory in Miami on April 23rd leaving the fans astonished. Owner/Driver - Dennis DeLaTorre, Throttle Man - Tommy Hoffstetter, and Navigator - Gabriel Pacheco gained an immediate fan base and the respect from veteran racers. Not only was it the different sound, triple manned 41 foot Apache power boat that grasped their attention but the fact it was the most unique race boat on the course.

Fort Lauderdale was quite the experience when the race was split into two different mornings, accommodating the annual Air and Sea show and attracting thousands of viewers. While having tight competition throughout both races we were able to keep it to the limit and succeed a second win. In Marathon, another two day race, an obstacle was thrown into the speed equation by having to go underneath both seven mile bridges with the competition right by our side. Predator pulled away from the pit area with a big smile and another checkered flag! Unfortunately, we experienced our first mechanical problem in a later race which took place the City of Hollywood where team Predator received the second place award.

The Sarasota Offshore Grand Prix was a great experience for the entire team. Parading Main St in downtown and experiencing the receptiveness from the fans was incredible. The pit area was outlined with a classic car and motorcycle show. Team Predator made many more fans and friends while signing autographs and talking for hours to the enthusiastic people around the pits. Placing first in the race was just icing on the cake for the weekend we had. Dania Beach races brought us another victory and better comfort level with the boat.

August was our first voyage out of Florida into the world of Reggie Fountain in Washington, North Carolina. Expecting Predator to react differently in the calm waters of the Pamlico River, we were nervous about the competition. After passing the finish buoy under the checkered flag, we realized that the Apache was a wining machine in and out of rough conditions. Our next race took us back to North Carolina, where Morehead City fans where enthusiastically waiting. Small town folks showed big time excitement when we walked up the stage and took possession of our wining prizes.

Panama City Beach, although much fun, gave us engine fault and we had to limp out of the course and straight back to the engine shop for a pair of new Chief Engines. Soon after, during the 9-11 five year anniversary, the team raced in New York City on the Hudson River. The race course passed directly in front of the financial district in lower Manhattan where the towers once lined the sky. We also had the treat to receive our first place trophy under the vision of Lady Liberty. Finally, after a very exciting season, we had the chance at the National Championship title in Deerfield Beach. Wining was the only task we had and loosing was not an option. After having this attitude and commitment to ourselves, we were proud to walk away with the title and the fan base.

The 2007 race season looks very promising to the team. We have upgraded the boat with the best power Chief Engines has to offer and rigging that is second to none. A new paint that will give Predator a competitive look amongst the rest is scheduled for the end of the 2006 season. The 41 foot wave crusher will not only impress the fans with its new look but also with its impressive performance and sound.