APBA Driving School Inspires Next Generation at 2026 Governor's Cup Regatta

One of the highlights of the 2026 Governor's Cup Regatta isn't just the racing on Grand Lake—it's introducing the next generation to the sport of inboard hydroplane racing.

Tony Black, lead instructor for the APBA Inboard Driving School, says one of this year's standout students is 13-year-old Nick Jenkins of Springfield, Ohio. Just three weeks after attending the driving school, Jenkins is already hooked on the sport.

The APBA Driving School gives students as young as 13 the chance to drive a 5-liter inboard hydroplane in a controlled environment, with only one boat on the water at a time.

Jenkins said he became interested after attending a race with his grandfather last year.

"I loved it," Jenkins said. "They said you can actually race the boats, and I told my grandpa I'd love to do that."

A connection through his gym teacher led to Jenkins receiving a ticket to the driving school, where he says he's enjoyed every minute.

"I love this sport, and I hope to get a boat and do all that," he said.

Black, now in his 46th year of racing inboard hydroplanes, said mentoring young drivers has become his way of giving back to the sport that has given him so much.

"For the last six years I have been the lead instructor for the driving school," Black said. "It's the only opportunity that I have to pay the sport back."

Black also praised Celina and Grand Lake as one of the premier racing venues in North America, noting he has competed across the United States and Canada.

"When I tell you this is one of the premier venues to race in, it is one of the premier venues to race in," he said.

Beyond the racing itself, Black said the Governor's Cup Regatta provides a significant economic boost to the community, bringing dozens of racing teams who fill local hotels, purchase fuel, dine at area restaurants and support local businesses throughout the weekend.

Racing at the Governor's Cup Regatta continues through Father's Day on Sunday along Lakeshore Drive in Celina.