The Checkmate 26′ Convincor will be offered with stern-drive or outboard power.

With upcoming releases of 43- and 26-footers, Checkmate Marine of Bucryus, Ohio, is taking aim at both the higher-end entry-level sportboat markets. Announced last week, the 43 Punisher with 700-hp supercharged, fuel-injected engines from Mercury Racing is slated to debut later this spring. But before the larger V-bottom is released, the noted sportboat will builder will unveil its much-awaited 26 footer.

“We should have our new 26′ Convincor ready by the end of March,” said Doug Smith, the owner of Checkmate.

As reported in an earlier speedonthewater.com story, power options include a base 380-hp MerCruiser 8.2 Mag engine or a 430-hp MerCruiser 8.2 H.O engine. Outboard engine options also will be offered.

Base price with the 380-hp engine is approximately $80,000.

Editor’s Note: Look for a “sneak-peek” follow-up story on the 26′ Convincor when Checkmate unveils the first model.