Interest in boats outfitted with internal combustion engines developed around the end of the nineteenth century. By 1902, there were enough of these crafts around to stimulate discussions and people wanted to race their boats. In 1903, representatives of twenty yacht clubs met and adopted the name American Power Boat Association (APBA), they set up a constitution, formed rules and elected officers.

Though early rules were adequate, disputes arose between member clubs. To settle them, the first Racing Commission was established in 1913. Through the years, programs have evolved to offer a great variety of racing classes to spectators and participants in the sport, from the spectacular unlimited class to the family runabout.

Over 200 regattas are sanctioned annually in the United States and Canada. Nearly 3,000 racing boats are registered by the racing members. Clubs, officials, and other classifications bring the total membership to over 6,000.

Power boat racing on Onondaga Lake dates back to at least the 1950?s. Syracuse Hydrofest has become one of the premier, annual boat racing events in the North America.