This Weeks Current Event!

Tubbing – the latest thing on the water!

Forget powerboats and supercats - bathtubs are the latest high-speed racing vessels to compete for the up and coming world championships.  Two events have just been held in New Zealand, at Whitianga and Bowentown near Waihi.

The sport involves the use of a bathtub and an eight horsepower motor. Technology is improving all the time, which means new, quicker bathtubs are always being built. However, there are some rules. You have to have a part of the bathtub in the water at all times and the rim exposed.  Tubbers have to wear wetsuits, life jackets, safety helmets, and have engine kill cords in case they capsize or fall out. The bathtub may be made out of any material but must be recognized as a standardized tub – which is readily available in plumbing circles!   According to fans, it’s a great family day out.  Everybody is waiting for the odd thing to happen, such as motors coming off, and bath tubs flipping!  The latest designs can reach speeds of 30 to 40 km.

Would you give one of these a go? Why/Why not?

Mary says no, because she is too young and not experienced enough.  I would rather watch than compete she adds.

Zara thinks she could really hurt herself in it.

Hamish says YES!  It would be great fun. 

What would you find particularly tricky with this type of invention?

Lucia says steering would be tricky!

Olivia thinks keeping the boat in the water.

Ethan says it would be hard to balance with both hands busy!

Edith thinks it would be hard to turn quickly without flipping over.

What do you think would be the best thing about having one of these boats?

 Having such fun says Hunter.

Lachlan says you could do jumps, and 360's.

William says you can get away from home and be occupied in the weekends.

Caleb thinks having races with your friends!

What other household items do you think could be suitable for a speedboat?

 Isaac G says what about your whole house!

Georgia wonders if you could use a table?

Ollie would give the toilet a go!

What does this type of invention tell you about technology?

 Technology is changing all the time.

What might they invent next?