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Union Internationale Motonautique facts for kids

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Union Internationale Motonautique
Union Internationale Motonautique logo.svg
Sport Powerboating
Category Water sport
Jurisdiction International
Abbreviation UIM
Founded 1922 (1922)
Affiliation General Association of International Sports Federations,
Association of IOC Recognised International Sports Federations
Headquarters Stade Louis II, Monaco
Location Principality of Monaco
President Italy Raffaele Chiulli
Secretary Switzerland Thomas Kurth
Replaced Union Internationale du Yachting Automobile
(founded) 1922
Official website

The Union Internationale Motonautique (UIM) is the main organization for powerboating around the world. It is based in Monaco, a small country. The UIM makes the rules for powerboat races and championships.

This organization started in 1922 in Belgium. Back then, it was called the Union Internationale du Yachting Automobile. Over the years, more and more countries joined. By 2017, there were 60 member nations.

What is Powerboating?

Powerboating is a thrilling water sport where people race boats with powerful engines. The UIM oversees many different types of powerboat racing. These races happen on various kinds of water, from calm lakes to open seas.

Types of Powerboat Racing

The UIM organizes world championships for several exciting powerboat categories:

  • Circuit Racing: These races happen on a closed course, like a track on the water. Boats go very fast around buoys. Examples include F1H2o, F2, and F500 races.
  • Aquabike: This is racing on jet skis. Riders perform amazing turns and jumps. There are different series, including the Aquabike World Championship.
  • Offshore Racing: These races take place on open water, often in the sea. Boats are built to handle rough conditions and travel long distances. XCAT and Class V1 are examples of offshore racing.
  • Pleasure Navigation: This type of event focuses on endurance and navigation skills rather than just speed. Boats travel long distances, testing their reliability.
  • MotoSurf: Since 2021, the UIM has also included MotoSurf. This involves racing on motorized surfboards. It has classes for juniors, women, and different board types.
  • Radio-controlled Boats: For a while, the UIM also had championships for small, remote-controlled boats. These events stopped after 2016.

UIM Members Around the World

The UIM is a global organization with many countries as members. In 2023, there were 58 nations that were part of the UIM. These countries are spread across different continents:

  • Asia: 14 members
  • Oceania: 2 members
  • Africa: 3 members
  • Americas: 6 members
  • Europe: 33 members

These member nations work together to promote powerboating and ensure fair and safe competitions worldwide.

See also

External links

  • UIM Powerboating
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Union Internationale Motonautique Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.