Quebec's hydroplane racing community gathered for the HRL's 2025 Annual Gala, celebrating the drivers, teams, and volunteers who shaped another competitive season on the circuit.
The evening covered honours across every level of the sport, from the Novice categories through to the top Pro and Grand Prix classes.
Paul Barber, driving the H-52 for Legacy 1, claimed the Driver of the Year award for 2025, recognised as the athlete with the highest average points across the season. It was a strong night for Legacy 1 as a team, who also took out Team of the Year honours for their cohesion, professionalism, and consistent on-water performance.
Francis Sauvé, co-driver of the S-817 for Formax Racing, was named Rookie of the Year across all categories, with the award recognising consistency, commitment, and performance throughout the season. On the Novice side, Raphaël Daoust in the N-9 for The Dog Racing picked up the Rookie of the Year award for his category, recognised for perseverance, steady progression, and passion in his first season.
Martin Rochon, driving the H-773 for RTX, received the Most Improved Driver award. Marc Lalonde in the H-751 for Lalo Racing was recognised for Best Debut in a Higher Class after successfully stepping up a level.
Away from the cockpit, John Nebelecky, crew member across the S-50, F-50, F-500, H-500, and GP50, was voted Crew Member of the Year by HRL members for his versatility, professionalism, and contribution. Jonathan Abbott, HRL and H1 Chief Referee, received the HRL Ambassador Trophy for outstanding contribution to the promotion of the sport and the values of the league.
Daniel Allaire, the HRL Rescue Team Manager, was named HRL Personality of the Year, a distinction recognising his exceptional commitment to boating safety, team development, and the promotion of hydroplane racing.
Class champions were crowned across all seven divisions: Novice, 2.5 Litres, Formula 2500 (F2500), Jersey Speed Skiff (JSS), Hydro 350, Pro Hydro, and Grand Prix.
