So what if the boat is not running 80! Like nick said, it's a drivers race. Seat time is what the nostalgia classes are all about. I think it's better to get out there now with a slow boat, learn the flags, learn the boat, and learn what it's like to turn in rough water with several other boats. It's not for everybody. Remember, there are two types of circle racers, those that have been wet and those that will.