John Belton AKA “THE MASTER” of the channel between Long Beach / Dana Point and Catalina Island earned that nickname for traversing the channel over 650 times, yes 650 times. Belton has spent a lifetime on the water engaged in competitive sailing, surfing and racing watercraft. John is also a competitive runner. Nobody has the experience and knowledge of the channel that Belton has, and it showed on Sunday March 28, 2010 when Belton finished just behind a few of the very heavily modified high dollar watercraft on his completely stock ULTRA260X. Belton came in 6th overall and won the Vet/Master Class of the first race of the Triple Crown of Offshore. John was the first craft to cross the finish line on a completely stock craft (minus HYDRO-TURF lifter wedges), a tremendous accomplishment. Congratulations Mr. John Belton!
What are your thoughts about racing in rough or “ocean flat” water? When the water is rougher and there are swells, you can actually relax a bit when the boat is in the air. When the water is really fast and "mostly" calm, you must have a very tight grip on the throttle the entire 100% of the time and you must "move around" on the boat constantly to try to find the "sweet spot" which will maximize hull speed.
Do you prefer rough or flat water? When it comes to an event, I can't say that I prefer one type of water over the other. It's my job to adapt to the elements presented to me. But if there is a good groundswell, I have to say I do enjoy that type of ride.
How did you prepare your stock craft for the race? Regarding the issue of the boat itself, obviously this is a very important part of the equation. I make sure the oil level is correct, hose clamps are tight, as well as the SC Belt adjusted correctly. The night before a race, I like to just sit on the boat in the garage for a 1/2 hour or so. I just sit there and do nothing. This helps to reinforce a "comfortable" feeling on the boat. You should feel comfortable with the ergonomics of your boat. A successful offshore rider must be comfortable on the boat. If you are comfortable on the boat you are able to ride with less effort and stay strong in mind and focus.
Who are your sponsors? I want to thank my sponsors for their great support of me and of offshore racing. They are www.pwcoffshore.com, HYDRO-TURF, Fly Racing Products, R&D; Racing and the great information we receive from TeamMoto.
See you at the 2010 Long Beach to Catalina and Back Offshore National Championship on July 18, 2010!
www.pwcoffshore.com www.pwcoffshoreforums.com www.jetskioffshore.com http://www.lb2catrace.com/
