Combine the thrill of offshore boat racing, the adventure of running a custom, purpose built, ultra-high performance watercraft in a demanding, on the water marathon, and one man’s passion for helping kids with cancer, and the result is The 2026 Great Loop Challenge powered by Honda Marine, scheduled to launch August 8, 2026, from the Lake Beresford Yacht Club in Deland, Florida.
Editor’s Note: Our contributing editor, and powerboat racing expert, Eric Colby, will be on board for the leg between Virginia and Maine. Look for Colby’s social posts and full report to come.
Key Takeaways
- Honda Marine has secured the title sponsorship of The 2026 Great Loop Challenge powered by Honda Marine, an ultra-endurance, 7,300+ nautical-mile marine marathon supporting pediatric cancer research.
- The 2026 Great Loop Challenge powered by Honda Marine is the mission-driven effort led by cancer survivor Captain Scott “Red” Flowers aiming to raise funds and awareness for the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation.
- The at-sea marathon will be run aboard a custom Portā DARK:30 Velocity powered by Honda Marine, developed and custom built by marine innovator Scott Portā.
- Challenge showcases real-world performance of high-power Honda BF350 V8 outboards, including efficiency, durability, and long-range reliability under extreme conditions.
- Honda Marine supports the initiative with technology and funding, reinforcing its commitment to innovation with purpose and community impact.
- Throughout the run, Honda Marine, the NPCF, Captain Flowers, his crew and participating partners will share updates on route progress, engineering performance and fundraising milestones. Followers can track the Portā DARK:30 Velocity powered by Honda Marine, donate to The 2026 Great Loop Challenge powered by Honda Marine, and access additional event information and media assets at marine.honda.com/marine-events and hondanews.com.
