Class 700 Dominates...

Photo by: Ryan Walker

In the fast-paced world of offshore racing, size doesn’t always dictate success. Case in point: Class 700, the smallest boats in the series, have stunned fans and competitors alike by dominating year after year. Despite their compact design, these boats have proven time and time again that they have the power, precision, and speed to top the leaderboard. In a series known for massive, high-powered machines, the Class 700 boats—often underappreciated at first glance—have made a statement that can’t be ignored.

A Legacy of Championship Wins

For the past three years, Class 700 has been the epicenter of offshore racing dominance, with each season bringing a new powerhouse team to claim the coveted High Points Championship.

Team Goofin – 2022 High Points Champions

In 2022, Team Goofin made waves in the offshore racing community when they stormed to the High Points Championship. Their precision, skill, and sheer determination made them stand out in a field of fierce competitors. Despite facing off against some of the most formidable teams in the series, Goofin’s mastery of the Class 700 boat secured them the win—a perfect example of how the right combination of strategy and technique can overcome more intimidating machines.

Team Punisher – 2023 High Points Champions

Following in Goofin’s footsteps, Team Punisher took the spotlight in 2023 with an even more impressive performance. They didn’t just participate—they dominated the series. With their laser-focused approach and impeccable handling of their custom built Class 700 boat, Team Punisher raced their way to the High Points Championship, proving that the smaller boats were more than capable of outrunning their larger counterparts. The 2023 season cemented their place as one of the most successful teams in offshore racing.

3rd Edition – The 2024 Champions

Now, the story continues with Team 3rd Edition, who claimed the 2024 High Points Championship in one of the most exciting seasons to date. Driven by the talented rookie Johnny D’Elia III, a rising star in the racing world, and throttled by his father, the seasoned offshore veteran JD D’Elia Jr., 3rd Edition has been nothing short of extraordinary. The synergy between father and son—both in terms of racing strategy and the understanding of the boat—has been the perfect formula for success.

With Johnny D’Elia III at the helm and JD D'Elia Jr. expertly throttling the boat, 3rd Edition has continued the Class 700 tradition of punching above their weight. Together, they’ve outperformed larger and more established teams, securing the title in a thrilling finish to the 2024 season.

The Underdogs That Couldn’t Be Stopped

What makes Class 700 boats so special? It’s all about the balance of speed, maneuverability, and innovation. Despite their small size compared to the larger machines on the track, they are incredibly agile, allowing for precise cornering, quick accelerations, and the ability to cut through water with ease. The teams that pilot them understand how to extract every ounce of potential from these powerful machines, and that knowledge, combined with the right teamwork, has led them to consistent victories.

The Class 700 boats have become a symbol of resilience in offshore racing. They may not have the sheer size or horsepower of their competitors, but they’ve proven that precision, experience, and a deep understanding of the sport can make all the difference.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Class 700?

As we look toward the future, Class 700 boats will continue to be a force to be reckoned with in offshore racing. With teams like 3rd Edition leading the charge and new competitors eager to challenge the dominance of the small but mighty boats, the next few seasons promise to be nothing short of exhilarating.

The legacy of Class 700 is one of underdog success, and with more talented teams entering the arena, it’s clear that the best is yet to come. Whether you’re a longtime fan of offshore racing or new to the sport, it’s impossible to ignore the impact these boats have had on the series—and they show no signs of slowing down.

Conclusion

The Class 700 boats might be the smallest on the track, but their dominance in the offshore racing series is undeniable. With Team Goofin’s 2022 victory, Team Punisher’s 2023 championship, and 3rd Edition’s spectacular win in 2024, these boats have proven that size is no obstacle to greatness. And as Johnny D’Elia III and JD D’Elia Jr. lead Team 3rd Edition to the top, the future of Class 700 has never looked brighter.