The second day of the P1 Powerboat Racing in Sheboygan was nothing short of electrifying! Paul and Christine from SheboyganLife.com were on the ground, capturing the excitement and bringing you interviews with key figures and behind-the-scenes action that made this event unforgettable.

The Mayor’s Take on Sheboygan’s Growing Event

The day kicked off with an insightful interview with Sheboygan’s Mayor, Ryan Sorenson. He shared his thoughts on how the P1 Powerboat Racing event has positively impacted the community. Last year, the event brought in 3,000 visitors and generated a staggering $4.7 million in economic investment. Mayor Sorenson emphasized how such events are crucial to the growth of Sheboygan, bringing more positive attention and community investment.

Fast Cats and a Turn 1 Mishap

After the Mayor’s interview, Paul and Christine headed to one of the day’s most anticipated events: the Fast Cat Races. With six contenders and eight laps, the race was a thrilling spectacle. Christine had her money on Insurance X, while Paul rooted for Monster. The race took an unexpected turn when the Austin 88 flipped over at a 90° incline, but fortunately, the driver emerged unscathed. Despite the mishap, the race continued, keeping spectators on the edge of their seats.

A Conversation with P1 CEO Azam Rangoonawala

Paul then caught up with Azam Rangoonawala, the CEO of P1 Powerboat. Azam shared his journey into the world of powerboat racing, revealing that it started as a family business. He highlighted the incredible growth of the event and its impact on tourism and local revenue. Azam’s passion for the sport and the community was evident as he discussed the future of the P1 Midwest Challenge in Sheboygan.

Racing Insight with Steven Bridges, Owner of Team Bermuda

Next up was an engaging interview with Steven Bridges, the owner and throttleman for Team Bermuda. This was Steven’s first time racing in Sheboygan, and he expressed how impressed he was with the community and the event. Despite a challenging race the previous day, Steven’s team showed resilience, and he hinted at a potential second-place finish pending the results of a protest. His enthusiasm for the sport and camaraderie with other racers was infectious, making it clear that he plans to return to Sheboygan next year.

The Awards Ceremony and a Chat with the Champion

The day culminated with the awards ceremony, where the winners were celebrated for their outstanding performances. Paul interviewed Steve Miklos, the throttleman for El Bandido, who took first place in the Mod V competition. Steve, a 12-time world champion, shared his experience of racing in Sheboygan, noting the technical challenges of the course and how it differs from racing in the Atlantic. His excitement and humor, especially when he shared his first “shoey” experience in Sheboygan, made for a memorable interview.

A Successful Event Wrap-Up

Paul and Christine wrapped up the day, reflecting on the excitement and energy of the event. While Christine’s pick, Insurance X, didn’t take first place, she remained impressed with the overall performance of the racers. The wind was a significant factor throughout the weekend, adding an extra layer of challenge to the competition.

As the second annual P1 Midwest Challenge concluded, it was clear that Sheboygan has established itself as a premier destination for powerboat racing. The event not only brought thrills to the shores of Lake Michigan but also showcased the vibrant spirit of the Sheboygan community.

For those who missed the action, be sure to watch the full video on SheboyganLife.com. Don’t forget to hit that follow button, like the video, and share it with your friends to spread the word about this incredible event. Sheboygan is the place to be, and we can’t wait to see you all at next year’s P1 Powerboat Racing!