Powerboat OGP - Malta Preview

Here we are again at the start of the 2011 season of the Powerboat Endurance championship, who after making last year without a promoter takes 2011 with Ocean Grand Prix from Malta taking care of this spectacular event.  It will be a challenge for the Maltese company, but the potential for the Endurance Series in both the Evolution and Super Sport class to become something big in the World of Motor Sport are on the cards.  The challenges for OGP are a lot, starting from the fact that the World economy still has not yet recovered fully from the 2008 and 09 recession, and continuing with restoring the believe in the championship from sponsors.

Round one of the 2011 season will start in Malta, home of Powerboat endurance races since 2004, and also to the Chaudron Powerboat, Super Sport class champion for three consecutive times from 2007 till 2009.

So far we we do not have a team list but as soon as this will be in hand we will update you with the details. Watch this spot for more.
Pole Position is scheduled for Friday at 1700 hours, Round One race on Saturday at 1600 hours, and Round Two scheduled for Sunday at the same time.

www.oceangrandprix.org

Powerboat OGP - 2011 Calendar

Ocean Grand Prix will be the new entity responsible for the Powerboat World Championship endurance series, in both the Evolution and Supersport classes taking over from the provisional UIM promotion as done for the 2010, and 2002 season, and the P1 management from 2003 till 2009.  Ocean Grand Prix has so far listed a provisional calendar for the 2011 season with a five to six grand prix locations possible, and a total of ten to twelve races.  This calendar should be updated later on, with the second Grand Prix in Turkey awaiting confirmation.  Grand Prix five which is a reserve date, and six being the last still need confirmation.  Participants should be of a similar number to those of the 2010 season.  More news to come about this later on as soon as we have the details.  PowerYacht will again follow the season with all its virtue giving the latest news of this series as this is available.

Ocean Grand Prix 2011 Provisional Calender:

1 June 10-12 Valletta Malta

2 July 7-10 Istanbul (tbc) Turkey

3 August 4-7 Den Helder Netherlands

4 September 2-4 Siracusa (tbc) Italy

5 September 16-18 reserve date

6 October 6-9 (tbc)

www.oceangrandprix.org

Powerboat GPS - Como Grand Prix

Although the World title of the Powerboat GPS series finished in Siracusa a couple weeks ago, for this year we also decided to follow the ending of the European and Italian championship which was to be made in Como. Apart this race, all the other Grand Prix where held together with the World Championship, so being at it why not give you the result for the European and Italian titles too. This years European and Italian titles closing was to be decided in Como's legendary Centomiglia del Lario; One-Hundred Miles of Lario race which has formed heroes in Power boating many times in its history. This years World and European Champions 60 Metamarine driver Pennesi won it a couple years ago, and in the past we had heroes at the time and boat builders today as Abbate and Molinari take this legendary race. This years sixtieth edition had a total of 21 competitors in the various categories, ten of which come from the famed top Classes of Evolution only three competitors here, and Supersport with a good seven boats running. The race was held in the last September weekend on Saturday 25th, and Sunday 26.

Evolution

Only three competitors in this class but it was double glory for 88 SNAV Kiton. With this OSG racing team won the last two races of the Evolution class season, and take an Italian title. Double second for 66 Cranefields who continue to show the improved pace they showed in this last part of the season. 55 Ukrainian Spirit and the new for 2010 43 feet Chaudron did not finish race one, and ended race two in a last third place out of three competitors in this class. 60 Metamarine Foresti&Sguardi took the European title in advance in Siracusa, and did not need to participate in this race, which was a bit disappointing for the fans.

Supersport

In this category we had a total of seven competitors all challenging for the Italian Championship and four for the European title. A double victory was made by the Fountain of 81 Karelpiu which made this one of the best ever rookie season for the Naples based RG87 Racing Team. This double win, which makes a total of four top spots for 81 Karelpiu declared this Naples team as Italian and European 2010 champions. Second overall in the Como Grand Prix but taking two third places for the improving also rookie Ukrainian team but experienced 2009 World Champion boat of 43 Seagull Chaudron. A third for 38 Baia Attolini which take a second place on Saturday, and a sixth on Sunday. This result make them loose the chance of a European title and a double by just three points. Retirement on race one, and a second place on day two for the fast SV40 Outerlimits 22 Big Sergio of Team Al&Al. Fifth overall for the stern drive powered Donzi of 59 Chrisden. A sixth place for the double 2007 and 2008 World Champion Chaudron 41 feet of Racing project, who takes two fifth places. Last place for this nice looking but still very under performing diesel Zeta Elle boat of Di Cesare Riscaldamenti who takes a best sixth on Saturday, and a last seventh on Sunday.

www.uimpowerboating.com

Powerboat GPS - Siracusa Endurance Race

The 2010 season comes to an end again in the picturesque Siracusa. Considering that in early Spring we where without races this was a huge success for the World Powerboats Association the UIM, and all the teams involved. The Grand Prix of the Sea Series touched important parts of the Globe too: starting with the first ever race in Yalta Ukraine, followed by the classic in Malta, a recent missing fixture returning that of Poltu Quatu in the beautiful Sardinia, Bacoli in Naples which also missed for three years, and closed what is becoming also a unique setting in Siracusa in Sicily the biggest Island in the Med. The last round showed incredible power by those who came second in both class, which sends a message to the title winners for things to come next year. Today's race also offered calmer waters with the boat hitting incredible times but with the positions actually staying the same from the rough seas of yesterday.
Evolution
Supersport
22 Big Sergio show power taking both of the last rounds with the team doing incredible lap times some of which under the four minutes mark and the best being a 3:57,17. As Alfredo Amato said when the Outerlimits SV40 is running well, the others just have to follow, which means we are getting used to the package and to winning. With these results 22 Big Sergio end the 2010 season on second, a huge improvement from the fourth of two races ago, with a distance of just one from the third place, and two points from fourth. Another second for the Naples Fountain of 81 Karelpiu which showed good composure resulting in the best season ever for a rookie team taking a total of three wins. Incredible laps also from this team which was only fifteen seconds behind Big Sergio, and had the best of the weekend time at 3:57,05. Third place for 34 Seagull Chaudron, a rookie team with the 2009 championship winner boat which showed improved performance and also managed to win a race in Bacoli. A fourth for the new 2010 Supersport World Championship winners 38 Baia Attolini, which I admit after they took Powerpole on Friday I did accept better results to this. A fifth for the Yanmar diesel powered 06 Jolly Drive which in this last four races showed good results, better lap times, and the always important reliability. With this they also overtake the sunken in Poltu Quatu Spirit of Belgium, finishing the season in fifth. Sixth place for Kenon Cafe the Racing Project hull winner of 2007, and 08 titles. A last place and again two laps late for what is the good looking and interesting wider to the usual Zeta hull powered by FPT diesels 18 F.Di Cersare Riscaldamenti. Sadly again no participation for this last round from the fast Donzi of 26 Team 26, and the new Pantera 08 Asia 2011-15.
Evolution Results:
1. 33 Furnibo
2. 88 SNAV-Kiton
3. 60 Metamarine Foresti& Sguardi
Super Sport Results:
1. 22 Big Sergio = 15 laps 59:13,11
2. 81 Karelpiu = 59:28,42
3. 43 Seagull Chaudron = 1:00:15,90
4. 38 Baia Attolini = 1:00:38,22
5. 06 Jolly Drive = 1:01:38,90
6. 44 Kenon Cafe = 1:01:39,75
7. 18 F. Di Cesare Riscaldamenti = 1:01:43,05 -2laps
EVOLUTION:
Pos. Boat Name - Team Name ~ Round 9 + Round 10 = TOTAL (incl engine bonus 5 pts)
1. 60 Metamarine Foresti&Suardi - Metamarine Corse ~ + = 151
2. 88 SNAV-Kiton - OSG Racing Team ~ + = 86
3. 33 Furnibo - 2B1 Racing Team ~ + = 79
4. 77 Lucas Oil - Scandiavian Offshore Challenge ~ + = 57
5. 66 Cranefields Wine - Searex Racing Team ~ + = 56
6. 55 Ukrainian Spirit - Ukrainian Spirit ~ + = 48
7. 47 Silverline Racing - Silverline ~ + = 6
8. 01 Carconnex - Carconnex ~ + = 0
SUPERSPORT:
Pos. Boat Name - Team Name ~ Round 9 + Round 10 = TOTAL
1. 38 Baia Attolini - Baia Attolini ~ 6 + 7 = 164 (1 bonus)
2. 22 Big Sergio - Al & Al Racing Team ~ 20 + 20 = 120
3. 43 Seagull Chaudron - Ukrainian Spirit ~ 12 + 12 = 119
4. 91 Karelpiu - RG87 Racing Team ~ 16 + 16 = 118 (1 bonus)
5. 06 Jolly Drive - Jolly Drive Racing Team ~ 7 + 6 = 66 (1 bonus)
6. 17 Spirit of Belgium - Spirit of Belgium ~ 0 + 0 = 49
7. 26 Team 26 - Team 26 ~ 0 + 0 = 21
8. 08 Asia 2011-15 - Ocean Dragon Racing Team ~ 0 + 0 = 5
www.grandprixofthesea.com

Powerboat GPS - Siracusa Sprint Race

Siracusa presented itself with similar conditions to the previous Powerpole day for Round nine of the World Championship race of the Grand Prix of the Sea series. The weather was tight in a moderate to rough sea state with waves of an average one metre in height making this unique course actually more challenging to what normally is. Today's race was also characterized by a dominion from start to finish in both the classes.

Evolution

Supersport

Team Al&Al and 22 Big Sergio continue to build results and after the first win in Poltu Quatu continue to show incredible power taking a second race of the season, here dominating from start to finish. The lap times of the Big Sergio Outerlimits SV40 where also incredible with a best of 4:01,80, three with four minutes two seconds mark, and all accept for the final lap under four minutes ten seconds mark. Rookie team 81 Karelpiu show their growing confidence too taking another podium with the Fountain having less to a minute distance from the Outerlimits powerboat. The best lap of the Fountain was a 4:03,41 which comes as the fifth better lap of the circuit, all better results being done by 22 Big Sergio. Third place for the 2010 season rookie drivers but 2009 World Championship boat Seagull Chaudron. Another good fourth place with less to two minutes distance from the first for the Yanmar diesel powered 06 Jolly Drive. Fifth for the 2007, and 08 champion 41 feet Chaudron hull of Kenon Cafe here making part of the Italian Championship teams. A sixth worst place, which comes to fifth in World Championship challengers for this season for 38 Baia Attolini. Was it too much celebrations for the Italian team who took World title two races in advance? A last place with a two laps delay for the FPT diesel powered Zeta build 18 F. Di Cesare Riscaldamenti.

EVOLUTION CLASS
1. 33 Furnibo =
2. 88 SNAV-Kiton
3. 60 Metamarine Foresti&Sguardi
4. 55 Ukrainian Spirit
5. 77 Lucas Oil Scandinavian Offshore Challenge
6. 66 Cranfields Wine - Carconnex
7. 47 Silverline
SUPERSPORT CLASS
1. 22 Big Sergio = 9 laps 35:57,43

2. 81 Karelpiu = 36:40,95
3. 43 Seagull Chaudron = 37:26,04
4. 06 Jolly Drive = 37:36,54
5. 44 Kenon Cafe = 37:40,50

6. 38 Baia Attolini = 37:53,13

7. 18 F. Di Cesare Riscaldamenti = 37:07,72 -2laps
www.grandprixofthesea.com

Powerboat GPS - Siracusa Powerpole

Sadly we are at the start of the final buoy of the 2010 Powerboat GPS Season, and just like 09 we finish the races in the magnificent Siracusa setting, what is a natural harbour. The weather looks nice and sunny, but winds are force four with gusts of five meaning waves of an average height of a one metre and a half. This final setting finds itself with World title already taken for grabs in Bacoli for both the classes, but there is still a European, and Italian championship to take for some. The pictures shown on the Facebook GPS fan page show also some teams who missed from Bacoli returning to race in Siracusa. Which is good news for the spectators. But I also think that these teams will use the fifth Grand Prix of the Season to fine tune the boats for the coming 2011.

EVOLUTION

Furnibo won its first race here last year, and a power pole was also taken. So how about starting to think for the missed title by doing whats best for the Belgian team Fountain which is going faster to all by a margin of more to fourteen seconds. Second for the 2009 and 2006 Evolution champions of OSG Racing Team with the Outerlimits SV43 88 SNAV-Kiton. A third for 2010 World Champions 60 Metamarine which surprisingly missed a Power Pole this year, and in this occasion was late by 27 seconds. Surely they are not bothered about this, having in replacement taken a title. A good fourth for the 43ft Chaudron 55 Ukrainian Spirit, with only a gap of a bit more to two seconds from Metamarine. A fifth for the Vector 77 Lucas Oil with over a second distance from 55 Ukrainian Spirit, and 31 seconds from the first. Sixth place for the returned other Fountain of 47 Silverline, which had a similar time but twenty five decimals of a seconds slower to Lucas Oil. Surprisingly the Fountain, and 88 SNAV-Kiton separated the followers by quite a distance in this Powerpole. Another headline for this class was also the separation of Luca Fornelli Fendi from Cangiano and his OSG Racing Team. Luca used to run the fast Cigarette Fantastic One in Evolution class in 2008, and 09 so my mind is already thinking of the return of this very fast boat for 2011. We will see!

SUPERSPORT

38 Baia Attolini 2010 World Champions and there 38 feet Donzi had a miss hit of a few points for a title here last year, so how about making for this by taking the Powerpole of day one in Siracusa. Less to a second late and surprise second place for the diesel Albatro 06 Jolly Drive which is showing improving results and performance in the last part of the season. Third but a whisker from the fore runners for the always fast open cockpit Super Sport class Fountain 81 Karelpiu. I am sure the Neapolitan team after a very good rookie first season will start to think for a championship strategy for the coming year. Return to racing after Poltu Quatu for hull one of the 41 feet Chaudron 44 Kenon Cafe which has two written titles, placed fifth a two seconds plus delay. Another return also after Poltu Quatu for the Italian made very interesting diesel powered ZL build 18 F. Di Cesare Riscaldamenti which placed last with a 31 seconds delay. No start for two fast boats; the Outerlimits 22 Big Sergio, and Chaudron 2009 champion 43 Seagull Chaudron.

Evolution Resuts:

1. 33 Furnibo = 3:16,86

2. 88 SNAV-Kiton = 3:30,54

3. 60 Metamarine Foresti & Sguardi = 3:43,82

4. 55 Ukrainian Spirit = 3:46,00

5. 77 Lucas Oil Scandinavian Offshore Challenge = 3:47,29

6. 47 Silverline = 3:47,54

7. 66 Cranefields Wine - Carconnex = DNS

Super Sport Results:

1. 38 Baia Attolini = 4:12,25

2. 06 Jolly Drive = 4:13,22

3. 81 Karelpiu = 4:13,82

4. 44 Kenon Cafe = 4:15,71

5. 18 F. Di Cesare Riscaldamenti = 4:43,21

6. 22 Big Sergio = DNS

7. 43 Seagull Chaudron = DNS

www.grandprixofthesea.com

Powerboat GPS - Siracusa Preview

We arrive to the last turn of the 2010 season for the Powerboat Grand Prix of the Sea, in the traditional atmosphere of Syracuse on the largest island of the Mediterranean that is Sicily. Unlike 2009 the stakes of the World title have already been decided, but that is not to say there is no remaining prices and competition to be held in the last way point, with European and Italian Championship still at stake.

60 Metamarine Forseti&Sguardi in Evolution, and 38 Baia Attolini in Supersport decided the 2010 World championship two rounds and a Grand Prix in advance, thanks to always consistent results and reliability. Now the two teams who also lead the European and Italian championship will head to this last round hoping to make a complete hat trick of the 2010 season, which will make it for them a year to remember, and surely a hard one to beat. But I am sure that the close competition of the other following fast boats in both the classes will make it all hard for them so that they also can celebrate the last round of the season with a celebration of there own.

EVOLUTION:
Pos. Boat Name - Team Name ~ Points
1. 60 Metamarine Foresti&Sguardi - Metamarine Corse ~ 151
An impressive season with reliability and a worst third place. Unstoppable.
2. 88 SNAV-Kiton - OSG Racing Team ~ 86

Sfortune moments for 2010 champions. But 010 challenge was more difficult to 09.

3. 33 Furnibo - 2B1 Racing Team ~ 79
Again shows speed in Bacoli. But for a title fast is not enough. Ask Metamarine in 2008!

4. 77 Lucas Oil - Scandinavian Offshore Challenge ~ 57
A good third in round 7. But still not consistent enough. Work to do for 2011.

5. 66 Cranefields Wine - Searex Racing Team ~ 56
Another second in Bacoli. Surely an improving performer for 2010.
6. 55 Ukrainian Spirit - Ukrainian Spirit ~ 48
Rough seas in Bacoli make it close to less then 10 secs. Missed buoy spoiled a result.
7. 47 Silverline Racing - Silverline ~ 6
After finishing a race and collecting six points they missed Bacoli.
SUPERSPORT:
1. 38 Baia Attolini - Baia Attolini ~ 146
Consistency and four wins with a worst fourth place, this is how you take a title.

2. 43 Seagull Chaudron - Ukrainian Spirit ~ 95

The 2009 Champion won a race, but problems on Sunday stopped the challenge.

3. 81 Karelpiu - RG87 Racing Team ~ 81

For a rookie to take two wins is very good. Shows the quality of a Fountain.

4. 22 Big Sergio - Al &Al Racing Team ~ 80

Takes Powerpole and leads half the first race, but then a mishap stops all.
5. 17 Spirit of Belgium - Spirit of Belgium ~ 49
After the terrible accident in Poltu Quatu it was expected not to see them.

6. 06 Jolly Drive - Jolly Drive Racing Team ~ 48

Diesel and Albatro show good bad weather handling. Can they repeat a podium.
7. 26 Team 26 - Team 26 ~ 21
They missed Bacoli. Hope to see them soon, for what is a fast boat with title chances.

8. 08 Asia 2011-15 - Ocean Dragon Racing Team ~ 5
After a good 2nd in the UIM Endurance in Cowes, have to see more of the new Pantera.
www.grandprixofthesea.com

Powerboat GPS - Bacoli Endurance Race

Going into the weekend very few would have imagined that the title would have been decided two rounds and a Grand Prix in advance. That is what happened in today's Round eight when both the no limit Evolution, and the open cockpit Supersport class titles where taken out for grabs. To my knowledge this is the first time it happens for Evolution, and the second in Supersport when in 2008 the 41 feet Chaudron powered by Mercury engines 43 Conam Yachts dominated the championship from start to finish winning all races of the series.

Evolution

A second place was enough for Pennesi and Montavoci and the 60 Metamarine Foresti & Sguardi to secure the 2010 World Championship two rounds, and a Grand Prix in advance. It's been a long one coming for Pennesi to take the Evolution title since in 2004 he took the Supersport top spot on an Offcourse Fabio Buzzi 41 feet designed diesel powered boat, and after that from 2005 competing in the bigger class. This triumph is also unique for having Diesel power the only boat in this class today, home built Variante drive, a hull also made in house, and last for the reliability and good results. With the 60 Metamarine always finishing a round, taking three wins, and the worst position being a podium of third. In Bacoli the 60 Metamarine second place with a deficit of less to seven seconds was also characterized by the fastest lap of the day of 3:00,83. A rewarding first place for the home Neapolitan team 88 SNAV-Kiton which made the local fans surely happy, and showed the challenging never give up skills of the 2009 champions. Another third, following a similar result in Poltu Quatu for 55 Ukrainian Spirit who seeing the lap times are still about ten seconds late against the top tier challengers. A retirement on the seventh lap for the USA Northern Europe boat with the longest title 77 Lucas Oil Scandinavian Challenge aka LOCOS. After showing good composure and an improvement in each Grand Prix the 66 Cranefields had to retire at the start lap. Did no start for the fast 33 Furnibo, cause of a broken crash box on the Saturday race.

Supersport

Two second places where enough for the Neapolitan 38 Baia Attolini and the 38 feet Donzi to secure the 2010 Supersport Class title two rounds and a Grand Prix in advance. It was three seasons of hard work and considering how this team was overcame by 44 Conam Yachts in 2008, just lost by a couple points to 43 Seagull Chaudron in 2009, it was nice to see them on the top of the class in a hard fought season with many close challengers. Again reliability was a very important factor for the Mercury racing, Arneson surface drives 38 feet Donzi hull, which I remind was also a 2006 Evolution champion with OSG when the speed limit was at 90 mph as today is in the Supersport class. A first place the second of the season for the open cockpit Fountain of 81 Karelpiu which make the Bacoli citizens very proud being the RG87 Team from the area. 81 Karelpiu did also the fastest lap of the day for the class with a 3:28,06. Another third, after the same result on Saturday for the Yanmar diesel powered forty feet Albatro powered 06 Jolly Drive. The Bacoli weekend was a good one for the only diesel powered boat in Supersport. A retirement for 43 Seagull Chaudron which follows its first win of the season with a disappointing stop on the first lap, and with it the chances of challenging for the 2010 World title in the last two rounds. The 22 Big Sergio did not start today race, after developing some problems on Saturday which the Team of Al&Al did not manage to fix.

EVOLUTION CLASS
1. 88 SNAV-Kiton = 14 laps 41:48,92
2. 60 Metamarine Foresti&Sguardi = 41:55,25
3. 55 Ukrainian Spirit = 43,40,70
4. 77 Lucas Oil Scandinavian Offshore Challenge = RET 7 laps
5. 66 Cranefields Wine - Carconnex = RET 0 laps
6. 33 Furnibo = DNS
SUPERSPORT CLASS
1. 81 Karelpiu = 13 laps 44:37,00
2. 38 Baia Attolini = 44:43,40
3. 06 Jolly Drive = 45:37,32
43. Seagull Chaudron = RET 1 lap
22. Big Sergio = DNS
EVOLUTION:
Pos. Boat Name - Team Name ~ Round 7 + Round 8 = TOTAL (incl engine bonus 5 pts)
1. 60 Metamarine Foresti&Suardi - Metamarine Corse ~ 20 + 16 = 151
2. 88 SNAV-Kiton - OSG Racing Team ~ 5 + 12 = 86 (1 bonus)
3. 33 Furnibo - 2B1 Racing Team ~ 6 + 0 = 79
4. 77 Lucas Oil - Scandiavian Offshore Challenge ~ 12 + 0 = 57
5. 66 Cranefields Wine - Searex Racing Team ~ 16 + 0 = 56
6. 55 Ukrainian Spirit - Ukrainian Spirit ~ 7 + 12 = 48 (1 bonus)
7. 47 Silverline Racing - Silverline ~ 0 + 0 = 6
8. 01 Carconnex - Carconnex ~ 0 + 0 = 0
SUPERSPORT:
Pos. Boat Name - Team Name ~ Round 7 + Round 8 = TOTAL
1. 38 Baia Attolini - Baia Attolini ~ 16 + 16 = 146 (1 bonus)
2. 43 Seagull Chaudron - Ukrainian Spirit ~ 20 + 0 = 95
3. 91 Karelpiu - RG87 Racing Team ~ 0 + 20 = 81
4. 22 Big Sergio - Al &Al Racing Team ~ 0 + 0 = 80
5. 17 Spirit of Belgium - Spirit of Belgium ~ 0 + 0 = 49
6. 06 Jolly Drive - Jolly Drive Racing Team ~ 12 + 12 = 48
7. 26 Team 26 - Team 26 ~ 0 + 0 = 21
8. 08 Asia 2011-15 - Ocean Dragon Racing Team ~ 0 + 0 = 5
www.grandprixofthesea.com

Powerboat GPS - Bacoli Sprint Race

After cloudy misty skies on the first day of the Bacoli Grand Prix, the skies opened up for Saturday and brought along some confused moving seas. It was a day of challenge in the race course, cheered by the total of four home Neapolitan teams, and the only sad part was that unlike Poltu Quatu we had four missing teams, plus another three from the Italian series.

Evolution

60 Metamarine Foresti&Sguardi put a good insurance on the title winning the seventh round and its third race of the season. Again Metamarine won it with similar fashion to Poltu Quatu following the 33 Furnibo and eventually overtaking the closed cockpit fast Fountain due to problems on the ninth lap. A good second place for 66 Cranefields Wine, which shows how this German outfit has improved a lot since the start of the 2010 season. A third for the Vortex of Nigel Hook and his 77 Lucas Oil Scandinavian Offshore Challenge. Fourth place for the 43 feet Chaudron 55 Ukrainian Spirit, which in reality finished third but got a three minute penalty for missing a buoy. A consolation fifth place for 33 Furnibo which is not so bad considering a destroyed crash box on lap nine halted the at the moment leading Fountain powerboat. Worth to note that Furnibo also managed a very fast lap time of 2:56,14 on lap eight, which is seven seconds better to 60 Metamarine best of the day. 88 SNAV-Kiton got a sixth last place finish, but still five points collecting just after the 43SV Outerlimits developed problems on lap eight.

Supersport

The 2009 Champion boat 43 Seagull Chaudron showed its title ambitions to 38 Baia Attolini by taking its first win of the 2010 season, in the seventh round Sprint race of Bacoli. Seagull Chaurdon started second but after the seventh lap eventually led the pack following the retirement of 22 Big Sergio. A second place keeps title ambitions in control for the Mercury engined Donzi 38 Baia Attolini. A best of the season so far with a third place for the diesel powered Albatro boat of 06 Jolly Drive. Retirement on lap seven and a title which escapes in the distance for 22 Big Sergio. Sad considering the Outerlimits SV40 was leading the pack in great fashion up to lap six. The consolation price and hope for the future is surely the fastest lap of the class with a 3:24,33, which is over two seconds better to 43 Seagull Chaudron best. Also a retirement on lap two for the other Bacoli boat of team RG87 and the open cockpit 38 feet Fountain 81 Karelpiu. The fast Donzi 26 Team 26, and the new Pantera 41 feet which debuted at Poltu Quatu 08 Asia 2011-05 missed the Bacoli race. Sad for both these important teams missing in the circuit considering what Team 26 is capable off, and the new Pantera 08 also placed a second in the UIM Marathon Cup held in Cowes, South of England at the end of August.

EVOLUTION CLASS

1. 60 Metamarine Foresti&Sguardi = 12 laps 35:36,55

2. 66 Cranefields Wine = 37:18,29

3. 77 Lucas Oil Scandinavian Offshore Challenge = 37:35,00

4. 55 Ukrainian Spirit = 36:59,27 +3:00 mins buoy missing penalty

5. 33 Furnibo = 51:52,91 -1lap

6. 88 SNAV-Kiton = 36:34,53 - 3laps

SUPERSPORT CLASS

1. 43 Seagull Chaudron = 11 laps 37:26,42

2. 38 Baia Attolini = 38:03,48

3. 06 Jolly Drive = 38:49,64

4. 22 Big Sergio = RET 7 laps

5. 81 Karelpiu = RET 2 laps

www.grandprixofthesea.com

Powerboat GPS - Bacoli Powerpole

Powerboats top class category which is the Evolution and Super Sport classes is back to Naples, South of Italy, in the sea town of Bacoli. The last time this offshore class participated in Naples was three years ago in 2007. Do you remember that Saturday race when Cangiano sank his Donzi in Saturday's race, and still managed to fix it in time to compete on Sunday. I hope to see Naples more in future calendars of the class, as here a lot of Power Boating history has been written in the past by the likes of legendary Don Aronow, and the Neapolitan Gagliotta. Naples is home to four teams competing in this years championship, and Bacoli in general is also the town of Sergio Carpentieri which sadly left us in the 2007 racing accident during the German Grand Prix. I am sure all racers who knew Sergio will make the fourth Grand Prix a dedication to him, most especially the Team Al&Al which he founded.

EVOLUTION

88 SNAV-Kiton and the OSG Racing Team show there never giving up skills by taking the Powerpole of the Bacoli Grand Prix held today at 1700 hours. Second place for the championship leaders diesel powered 60 Metamarine Foresti Sguardi with two seconds away. A whisk one hundred of a seconds awy from 66 Cranfields Wine which show there improving performance taking a respective third. Worst pole of the year for what is considered the fastest boat in the circuit that is the Mercury powered Fountain 33 Furnibo taking fourth by four seconds away. Fifth place for the 43 feet Chaudron Ukrainian Spirit with a deficit of six seconds. 77 Lucas Oil who started the run, had to give up after ten seconds because of a fuse problem. The other Fountain of Silverline which so far had a season full of mechanical problems and only concluded one race will sadly miss the Bacoli Grand Prix

SUPERSPORT

Team Al&AL 22 Big Sergio take the first power pole of the season which Alfredo Amato boss of the team and the Postiglione shipyard dedicating it to his friend and mentor Sergio Carpentieri. 22 Big Sergio result was also good news for US boat builder Outerlimits which takes Powerpole in both the GPS classes. Second place with a delay of just short of two seconds for the other Neapolitan team championship leading Donzi of 38 Baia Attolini. Third for the 2009 title winning Chaudron boat 43 Seagull Chaudron. After trouble shooting which started in Malta and continued in Poltu Quato a good fourth for the FPT diesel powered Albatro boat 06 Jolly Drive. A retirement during the run for the open cockpit Fountain of 81 Karelpiu of the Rookie for 2010 Neapolitan Bacoli team RG87 known here as Nautica Schiano. Sadly the fast Donzi of Team 26, miss also Bacoli after missing Poltu Quatu back in July, as do Spirit of Belgium who totalled there Nor-Tech in Poltu Quatu. Considering we had ten competitors in Poltu Quatu in Super Sport which reminded us of the great 2008 year, it is a bit sad to see just five competitors for Bacoli. But be reminded that four of these five have won a race in recent times so its all very close.

Evolution Results:

1. 88 SNAV-Kiton = 3:04,51

2. 60 Metamarine Foresti Sguardi = 3:05,88

3. 66 Cranfields Wine = 3:05,89

4. 33 Furnibo = 3:07,53

5. 55 Ukrainian Spirit = 3:10,93

6. 77 Lucas Oil Scandinavian Offshore Challenge = DNS

Super Sport Results:

1. 22 Big Sergio = 3:26,87

2. 38 Baia Attolini = 3:28,54

3. 43 Seagull Chaudron = 3:33,19

4. 06 Jolly Drive = 3:45,62

5. 81 Karelpiu = RET

www.grandprixofthesea.com

Powerboat GPS - Bacoli Preview

The most in doubt of the 2010 races has been confirmed to be happening in Bacoli in the South of Italy, on the West side of Naples. A lot names have been mentioned before the surprising Bacoli came up with names such as Malta, then Belgium being tipped up for the fourth stop of the season which consists of Rounds 7 and 8 races. Bacoli should be another great theme to this years circuits having on its South West side the islands of Procida, and Ischia which will provide for another spectacular background to the races.

Another important note is that many teams originate from the Naples area so this will be a very home race for them. 2006 and 09 Evolution champions OSG Racing, 2009 Supersport runner up Baia Attolini, Big Sergio, and the 2010 rookie RG87 Racing Team all are in fact from Naples.

The 2010 championship has shown the usual energy although if the usual recent results will be confirmed in both classes we will be heading for a two boats championship battle. But I am sure that 88 SNAV Kiton in Evolution, and 43 Seagull Chaudron in Supersport both sitting third will give all there best to battle this last part of the season before the closing showdown in Syracuse.

EVOLUTION:

Pos. Boat Name - Team Name ~ Points

1. 60 Metamarine Foresti&Suardi - Metamarine Corse ~ 115

Continued in Poltu Quatu with reliability and fast run results.

2. 33 Furnibo - 2B1 Racing Team ~ 78

Very fast indeed, but sometimes you need to scratch some points to win a title.

3. 88 SNAV-Kiton - OSG Racing Team ~ 64

Another not so good run in Sardinia. But can you ever count them out....

4. 77 Lucas Oil - Scandiavian Offshore Challenge ~ 45

Good fifth round race which showed them take second. Improving!

5. 66 Cranefields Wine - Searex Racing Team ~ 40

Improved performance and reliability versus the season start. Can they take it up a bit.

6. 55 Ukrainian Spirit - Ukrainian Spirit ~ 24

The engine change did not give that extra notch, but may be it is too early too say.

7. 47 Silverline Racing - Silverline ~ 6

Finally finished a race, and collected some points in the Quatu Sardinia race.

SUPERSPORT:

1. 38 Baia Attolini - Baia Attolini ~ 109

In Sardinia a photocopy result to Malta with a fourth and a first. Still leading!

2. 22 Big Sergio - Al & Al Racing Team ~ 80

First win in Poltu Quatu which was celebrated with a new sponsor. A challenge it is.

3. 43 Seagull Chaudron - Ukrainian Spirit ~ 75

A boat built for this class when its speed limit was 80mph. Never count her out!

4. 81 Karelpiù - RG 87 Racing Team ~ 61

A very good rookie season. Speed limit penalty in Sardinia.

5. 17 Spirit of Belgium - Spirit of Belgium ~ 49

Saturday morning trials accident in Sardinia totalled the boat. Hope to see them in Bacoli.

6. 06 Jolly Drive - Jolly Drive Racing Team ~ 24

This Diesel power is struggling. But this is not a bad package as the Ukrainian race showed.

7. 26 Team 26 - Team 26 ~ 21

A fast boat, but they strangely and sadly missed the Sardinia/ Poltu Quatu GPS.

8. 08 Asia 2011-15 - Ocean Dragon Racing Team ~ 5

A slow start for a new boat which just as the Chaudron 41 is built for Supersport rules.

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Powerboat GPS - Polto Quato Grand Prix

The picturesque Poltu Quatu on the famous Emerald Coast in Sardinia was the back drop for the turning point of the 2010 season. This year season is becoming a very challenging competition, where differences between both boats in the classes are just split seconds and with this reliability playing a more important role then to 2009. The Italians continue there good season run this year with Italian teams leading both classes. Saturday morning trials was also marked again by another terrible incident to the Super Sport Nor-tech Spirit of Beglium boat which nose dipped at 83 mph and left bad injuries to both Patrick and Shelley Jory.

EVOLUTION CLASS
Round 5
After not participating in the Friday Powerpole due to a blown Turbo, the competition was surely surprised to see a 60 Metamarine who from last position on the start run challenged second place on the first buoy turn, and after round six overtook the retiring engine troubled 33 Furnibo Fountain, going again to a dominant run. Second place for an always improving 77 Lucas Oil. Third place for the awaited return of the 55 Ukrainian Spirit Chaudron now with new more powerful Mercury engines. A not so good fourth place for the 2009 and 2006 champion OSG team 88 SNAV, who surely know that if they want to challenge Metamarine they have to do better then this. Finally 47 Silverline managed to cross the finish line, and with a three minutes distance in the nine laps course may be there is hope for a better performance in the races to come. Cranefields Wine German Searex powerboat had a slow performance considering there recent improvements in Malta, and in the Friday Powerpole. Retirement for the fast Fountain 33 Furnibo who before retiring on lap 6 was turning all laps under the four minute barrier, something only the diesel 60 Metamarine also managed for four laps, and 88 SNAV Kiton once on the third lap.
1. 60 Metamarine Foresti Sguardi = 9 laps 34:22,04
2. 77 Lucas Oil Scandinavian Offshore Challenge = 35:54,11
3. 55 Ukrainian Spirit = 36,21,24
4. 88 SNAV - Kiton = 36:48,45
5. 47 Silverline = 37:34,31
6. 66 Cranefields Wine - Carconnex = 41:28,71
7. 33 Furnibo = RET 6 laps
Round 6

It was a similar start to the Saturday Sprint race, with the two faster boats going head to head on the turning of the first buoy, but with the Belgian Fountain 33 Furnibo taking the inside of the turn and a better position to lead the race from start to finish. A display of strength and speed was followed by the Belgian team doing nine of the thirteen laps under the four minute barrier, including a weekend fastest three minutes 49.84 seconds. But the fast Belgian Fountain better watch its back all times as the reliable and fast Italian diesel monster 60 Metamarine replied with a similar fashion doing six laps under the four minutes barrier, its best being a three minutes 51,19 seconds. The second place of 60 Metamrine also meant a second overall Grand Prix win, following the one in Malta for the big Italian diesel powerboat, along with more points collected which increased its title advantage on the competition. Third position for the 2010 built 43 feet Chaudron who showed good composure and skill in the Poltu Quatu Grand Prix taking two important third place podium finishes. A race of frustration for Team OSG and the 2009 Championship winner 43 feet Outerlimits, who finished fourth on retirement on the thirteenth lap, and a two minute jump start penalty. Retirements for 77 Lucas Oil who still cant make a complete weekend after such a good race on Saturday, and 47 Silverline who continue there 2010 reliability issues. The 66 Cranefields Searex did not manage to start the race.
1. 33 Furnibo = 14 laps 54:01,98
2. 60 Metamarine Foresti Sguardi = 54:50,39
3. 55 Ukrainian Spirit = 57:34,80
4. 88 SNAV - Kiton = 54:21,51 -1 laps + 2:00 Jump Start Penalty
5. 77 Lucas Oil Scandinavian Offshore Challenge = RET 11 laps
6. 47 Silverline = RET 1 lap
7. 66 Cranefields Wine - Carconnex = DNS
SUPERSPORT CLASS
Round 5

After years of hard work the determination of Team Al&Al paid up, and finally we see the 22 Big Sergio make it to the top of the podium. The race also featured a very nice overtaking to the 43 Seagull Chaudron who finished second. Third place for 81 Karelpiu who actually where first, but finished demoted after receiving a thirty seconds over speeding penalty. 38 Baia Attolini and the 38 feet Donzi finished fourth. The diesel FPT powered 06 Jolly Drive after a month of hard work following Malta finished a point collecting fifth place. Not so good a start of a sixth place for the new much awaited Pantera 41 of Ocean Dragon Racing the 08 Asia 2011-15. No start for the 43 feet Nor-Tech which apparently disintegrated in a terrible nose dip on the morning practice leaving both pilots badly injured. The fast 38 feet Donzi Team 26 did not make it to Sardinia though in its absence we had three Italian teams competing for the Italian circuit; Saho 59 Chrisden a known 38 feet Donzi which competed in 2008, 18 Pratiko, and Angelo Tedeschi 44 Kenon Cafe which is the 2007 and 2008 Supersport Champion boat.

1. 22 Big Sergio = 8 laps 34:32,75
2. 43 Seagull Chaudron = 34:38,45
3. 81 Karelpiu = 34:28,86 + 30 seconds over speeding Penalty
4. 38 Baia Attolini = 35:08,32
5. 06 Jolly Drive = 37:23,54
6. 08 Asia 2011-15 = 38:20,34
7. 17 Spirit of Belgium = DNS
Round 6

38 Baia Attolini did a similar run to what they did in Malta a month ago dominating the round six Poltu Quatu Endurance race for thirteen laps. Second place for Big Sergio who with it take Poltu Quatu overall win, and reduce the gap to the 38 feet Donzi of Baia Attolini to only 29 points. A very successful weekend for Team Al&Al which was also celebrated by the signing of a new sponsor deal. Another third place for the fast 81 Karelpiu Fountain, but this time no surprise penalty to demote this very good performing rookie team. Fourth place for the 41 feet Seagull Chaudron. No start for three boats; the diesel powered 06 Jolly Drive, the new 41 feet Pantera 08 Asia 2011-15, and the Saturday accident 43 feet Nor-Tech 17 Spirit of Belgium. The three Italian teams which competed in the Italian series had a retirement on lap 8 for 18 Pratiko, a slow run for the Saho 59 Chrisden which finished two laps behind, and a good race by Team Racing Project 44 Kenon Cafe which made to all remember its glory days.
1. 38 Baia Attolini = 13 laps 57:57,90
2. 22 Big Sergio = 58:03,30
3. 81 Karelpiu = 58:46,02
4. 43 Seagull Chaudron = 59:16,69
5. 06 Jolly Drive = DNS
6. 08 Asia 2011-15 = DNS
7. 17 Spirit of Belgium = DNS
2010 Championship After Round 6
EVOLUTION:
Pos. Boat Name - Team Name ~ Round 5 + Round 6 = TOTAL (incl engine bonus 5 pts)
1. 60 Metamarine Foresti&Suardi - Metamarine Corse ~ 20 + 16 = 115 (1 bonus)
2. 33 Furnibo - 2B1 Racing Team ~ 0 + 20 = 73
3. 88 SNAV-Kiton - OSG Racing Team ~ 7 + 7 = 64 (1 bonus)
4. 77 Lucas Oil - Scandiavian Offshore Challenge ~ 16 + 0 = 45
5. 66 Cranefields Wine - Searex Racing Team ~ 5 + 0 = 40
6. 55 Ukrainian Spirit - Ukrainian Spirit ~ 12 + 12 = 24
7. 47 Silverline Racing - Silverline ~ 6 + 0 = 6
8. 01 Carconnex - Carconnex ~ 0 + 0 = 0
SUPERSPORT:
Pos. Boat Name - Team Name ~ Round 5 + Round 6 = TOTAL
1. 38 Baia Attolini - Baia Attolini ~ 7 + 20 = 109 (1 bonus)
2. 22 Big Sergio - Al & Al Racing Team ~ 20 + 16 = 80
3. 43 Seagull Chaudron - Ukrainian Spirit ~ 16 + 7 = 75 (1 bonus)
4. 81 Karelpiù - RG 87 Racing Team ~ 12 + 12 = 61 (1 bonus)
5. 17 Spirit of Belgium - Spirit of Belgium ~ 0 + 0 = 49
6. 06 Jolly Drive - Jolly Drive Racing Team ~ 6 + 0 = 24
7. 26 Team 26 - Team 26 ~ 0 + 0 = 21
8. 08 Asia 2011-15 - Ocean Dragon Racing Team ~ 5 + 0 = 5
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Powerboat GPS - Poltu Quatu Powerpole

Powerboats return to the white island that is Sardinia after a very long time. Who does remember the long endurance race like the Viareggio Bastia held in the sixties, seventies, and being abandoned in the late eighties when Class 1 started to change. But since then such yards as Bruno Abbate do hold their yearly race in Poltu Quatu. The weekend started in sunshine with a bit of swell, and usual big boats waves from the huge traffic the famous Emerald Coast has.
EVOLUTION
In Evolution Class the Fountain Furnibo continued to show its Powerpole, taking its consecutive Powerpole of the year, after Yalta. The nimble Fountain is proofing to be the fastest boat in this year circuit, now is to see if this will this be enough to beat the diesel monster staying in front of the championship. Second place with over seven seconds delay for the German Searex 66 Cranefields Wine, which has shown an improving performance ever since this season started. Third time for the new Chaurdon 43 feet, which here competed with the new much awaited more powerful Mercruiser engines in replacement to Ilmor's. Fourth place for the Vector 77 Lucas Oil with a fifteen seconds delay from the first. A fifth place which apart the time which was a seventeen seconds delay from the leader surely had to celebrate for completing its first power pole. No pole for what are the other two faster boats, the championship leading diesel powered 60 Metamarine, and the 2009 Champion 88 SNAV-Kiton.
SUPERSPORT
It was a big and pleasant surprise to see Angelo Tedeschi with the 2007, and 2008 title winner 41 feet Chaudron hull 44 Kenon Caffe taking the Powerpole of Poltu Quatu. In the 90 mph speed limited class we had a few guests from the Italian championship, which obviously adds to the show of the sport. Second place and less to a second late for the always faster Fountain 81 Karelpiu. Third place for current championship leader the Donzi of 38 Baia Attolini. Nine seconds late and fourth for the Ukrainain helmed 2009 Champion boat Seagull Chaudron. Another Italian competitor what is another Donzi 38 feet powered with stern drives the 59 Crisden came fifth in a seventeen seconds late run. Sixth for the diesel powered Jolly Drive. Four boats did not compete the Nortech 17 Spirit of Belgium which stands third in the championship tables, the Outerlimits SV40 of 22 Big Sergio, the Italian Championship competitor Adriatic sea built ZL 43 feet number 18 Pratiko, and the much waited 08 Asia2011-15 new Pantera 41.
Evolution Results:
1. 33 Furnibo = 3:47,28
2. 66 Cranefields Wine - Carconnex = 3:54,52
3. 55 Ukrainian Spirit = 3:56,50
4. 77 Lucas Oil Scandinavian Offshore Challenge = 4:02,14
5. 47 Silverline = 4:04,30
6. 60 Metamarine = DNS
7. 88 SNAV-Kiton = DNS
Super Sport Results:
1. 44 Kenon Caffe = 4:32,90
2. 81 Karelpiu = 4:33,38
3. 38 Baia Attolini = 4:35,90
4. 43 Seagull Chaudron = 4:43,14
5. 59 Crisden = 4:49,81
6. 06 Jolly Drive = 4:55,99
7. 16 Spirit of Belgium = DNS
8. 22 Big Sergio = DNS
9. 18 Pratiko = DNS
10. 08 Asia 2011-15 = DNS
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Powerboat GPS - Poltu Quato Preview

Rounds 5 and 6 of the UIM 2010 World Championship Grand Prix of the sea is just couple days away. Poltu Quato on the beautiful island of Sardinia is the place to be for the next offshore powerboat races held from 9 till July 11th 2010. The schedule is the usual with boats arriving in the wonderful Poltu Quatu Yacht harbour in the Smerld Coast tomorrow Thursday, Powerpole on Friday afternoon, Sprint race on Saturday, and Endurance on Sunday.

This race just sits in the middle of the championship, so it will be curious to see if the balances shown in the first four races will be broken. The Grand Prix of Poltu Quatu is also valid for the Italian Championship, so some wild cards from Italy will also be present in this race.

A new contender will also be coming in Supersport with the much expected new boat from Ocean Dragon racing, the new 8 Pantera Racing challenge. Martin Lai who is team boss will be driving alongside builder Pantera boats boss Jo Nunez. Martin switched from a Formula 38 to a totally new Pantera 41 fitted with twin Mercury 525EFi.

EVOLUTION:

Pos. Boat Name - Team Name ~ Points

1. 60 Metamarine Foresti&Suardi - Metamarine Corse ~ 74

Good position, and apart fast they are also reliable.
2. 33 Furnibo - 2B1 Racing Team ~ 53

Looks like the faster boat in this years circuit, do they have whats needed to take it.
3. 88 SNAV-Kiton - OSG Racing Team ~ 45

Unlucky in Malta, but OSG is always there.
4. 66 Cranefields Wine - Searex Racing Team ~ 35

Slower to the top three teams, but reliability gives points.
5. 77 Lucas Oil - Scandinavian Offshore Challenge ~ 29

A dozen seconds slower in calm water, but did not look bad in Malta.
6. 47 Silverline Racing - Silverline ~ 0

Looked fast during trials in Malta, but reliability issues keep stopping the race.
7. 55 Ukrainian Spirit - Ukrainian Spirit ~ 0

New Mercury engines arrived late in Malta. We have to wait and see.

SUPERSPORT:

1. 38 Baia Attolini - Baia Attolini ~ 77

Not the faster boat, but experience of the older boat and driver is paying up.
2. 17 Spirit of Belgium - Spirit of Belgium ~ 49

Terrible accident in Malta round 4. Still a challenger but needs to win a race.
3. 22 Big Sergio - Al & Al Racing Team ~ 44

It is a fast boat, but something is missing to be up top.
4. 43 Seagull Chaudron - Ukrainian Spirit ~ 42

Was back to its 2009 challenging ways in Malta.
5. 81 Karelpiù - RG 87 Racing Team ~ 32

Fast boat, and as winner of round 3 it showed it is a contender. Bit of experience needed.
6. 26 Team 26 - Team 26 ~ 21

Unlucky again in race 3, but round 4 was a good race. Faster boat.
7. 06 Jolly Drive - Jolly Drive Racing Team ~ 18

Reliability issues meant no races in Malta, for the only Diesel in SS class.
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Powerboat GPS - Malta Endurance Race Round 4

Calm Mediterranean sea and a misty sky was the backdrop for Malta's second Grand Prix race, which despite the not so difficult conditions saw four boats retire one of these with a terrible accident at 90 mph, and two which did not make it to the course. This means that the Endurance race followed its title, challenging the ultra fast powerboats and the drivers to extreme testing. A spectacular accident at 90 mph involved 17 Spirit of Belgium from Super Sport Class throwing driver Patrick Huybreghs over one hundred feet away from his cockpit. The fourth round of the Grand Prix of the Sea series ended with two teams in the respective class take a good leadership for the 2010 title. Next Grand Prix in a months time, starting on 9th July in Poltu Quatu in Sardinia, Italy.

Evolution

The 53 Metamarine Forest&Sguardi finally managed to clinch the Malta Grand Prix placing first in the Sunday Round 4 Endurance race. The Adriatic diesel powered mono hull made a brilliant start and continued its leadership to the end. Metamarine driver Marco Pennesi surely leaves the Island with a fantastic reminder then to last years accident during sea trial. In the sixth lap a fast 88 SNAV-Kiton was getting closer to the Italian mono hull before the Outerlimits SV43 had to retire. This was a weekend to forget for the OSG team, which started well by taking Powerpole on Friday, but ended in no points for the 2009 Champion. Second place for 66 Cranefields Wine who made well to hang out in the last parts of the race. 77 Lucas Oil Scandinavian Offshore Challenge ended the race in a third place which was not so bad considering they broke a shaft in the last three laps and had to limp it in to get some points. Saturdays winner 33 Furnibo who where assisted for the Malta Grand Prix with 2007 and 2008 Champion Craig Wilson retired past the middle of the race. At this time the Belgian team where placed second and at about 45 seconds distance from the leaders. Another no race day for 47 Silverline and the new Fountain 43 feet Silverline engined boat. During the morning sea trials the boat looked running quite well, before stopping and going in harbour at a slow pace.

Supersport

The 90 mph speed limit class had important chapters for race four of the 2010 season which are the leadership from start to finish of 38 Baia Attolini, the good recovery of 26 Team 26, the dominion of the Donzi 38ZF hull, and a terrible accident by Spirit of Beglium. Team 26 rounded the first mark in fourth place, but ended the last three laps with a tight nerving battle against the other older Donzi 38 of 38 Baia Attolini. Baia Attolini won the race with only a two seconds lead showing again the good defending skills from the Italian team. Both Donzi teams actually deserve the admiration, 38 Baia for defending its first place from the attacks of Team 26, and the British team for making it up to the second spot. Third place for 43 Seagull Chaudron which saw the Maltese built Supersport 2009 Champion boat taste back some of its past glory, and take second overall for the Malta Grand Prix. Fourth for 22 Big Sergio which had a replacement driver in Benjamin Van Riet part of the 2B1 Racing Team after the SV40 Outerlimits spun out on Saturday leaving helmsman Alfredo Amato injured. Benjamin Van Riet competed in the 2008 championship in Supersport Class with the Chaurdon 33 Spirit of Portomaso. Retirement for 17 Spirit of Belgium on the eleventh lap, and 81 Karelpiu on the ninth. Spirit of Belgium had a terrible 90 mph accident which saw throttleman Patrick Huybreghts fly hundred feet in the air, while the Italian Karelpiu Fountain winner of Saturdays race reached an impressive third from last before retiring. Same fate to Saturday for the o6 Jolly Drive Italian built diesel powerboat, which did not make it to the race course.

EVOLUTION CLASS
1. 60 Metamarine Foresti&Sguardi = 17 laps 59:44,00
2. 66 Cranefields Wine = 1:02:04,00 -1 lap
3. 77 Lucas Oil Scandinavian Offshore Challenge = 01:01,09 -4 laps
4. 33 Furnibo = RET 11 laps
5. 88 SNAV-Kiton = RET 6 laps
- 47 Silverline = DNS
- 55 Ukrainian Spirit = DNS
SUPERSPORT CLASS
1. 38 Baia Attolini = 16 laps 01:02:05,00
2. 26 Team 26 = 01:02:07.07
3. 44 Seagull Chaudron = 01:02:51,41
4. 22 Big Sergio = 01:03:00,49
5. 17 Spirit of Belgium = RET 11 laps
6. 81 Karelpiu = RET 9 laps
- 06 Jolly Drive = DNS

2010 Championship After Round 4
EVOLUTION:
Pos. Boat Name - Team Name ~ Round 3 + Round 4 = TOTAL (incl engine bonus 5 pts)

1. 60 Metamarine Foresti&Suardi - Metamarine Corse ~ 16 + 20 = 74 (2 bonus)

2. 33 Furnibo - 2B1 Racing Team ~ 20 + 0 = 53 (1bonus)

3. 88 SNAV-Kiton - OSG Racing Team ~ 0 + 0 = 45 (1 bonus)

4. 66 Cranefields Wine - Searex Racing Team ~ 7 + 16 = 35 (1 bonus)

5. 77 Lucas Oil - Scandiavian Offshore Challenge ~ 12 + 12 = 29 (1 bonus)

6. 47 Silverline Racing - Silverline ~ 0 + 0 = 0

7. 55 Ukrainian Spirit - Ukrainian Spirit ~ 0 + 0 = 0

SUPERSPORT:
Pos. Boat Name - Team Name ~ Round 3 + Round 4 = TOTAL

1. 38 Baia Attolini - Baia Attolini ~ 7 + 20 = 77 (2 bonus)

2. 17 Spirit of Belgium - Spirit of Belgium ~ 16 + 0 = 49 (1 bonus)

3. 22 Big Sergio - Al & Al Racing Team ~ 6 + 7 = 44 (2 bonus)

4. 43 Seagull Chaudron - Ukrainian Spirit ~ 12 + 12 = 42 (1 bonus)

5. 81 Karelpiù - RG 87 Racing Team ~ 20 + 0 = 32 (0 bonus)

6. 26 Team 26 - Team 26 ~ 5 + 16 = 21 (0 bonus)

7. 06 Jolly Drive - Jolly Drive Racing Team ~ 0 + 0 = 18 (1 bonus)

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Powerboat GPS - Malta Sprint Race Round 3

Light Seas, leadership from start to finish, and three rudder fins damages characterized the first race of two for the Malta Grand Prix. The Round Three race was also characterized by a dominant run by two Fountain Powerboats in both the Evolution and Supersport classes.

Evolution

The no limits class saw a dominant performance display by the Fountain of Belgium Team 2B1 33 Furnibo. which lead the race from start to finish. Second place for 60 Metamarine who started last of the Evolution group but where quickly third on the first run, and second half way on lap 2. Just when the 60 Metamarine surpassed the 2009 Champion 88 SNAV-Kiton the Outerlimts SV43 made a spectacular spin out, and had to retire after this. While the 88 SNAV-Kiton is normal to spinning the case for today's was a hit to a hard object as both drives had the rudder fins cut off. In the middle of the race the Metamarine boat seemed closing the gap on Furnibo with the loss reduced to only ten seconds. But the leading team sprang its throttles again to dominate the race and end with an advantage of over one minute. Good race and first points for the new Vector 77 Lucas Oil Scandinavian Challenge which placed a podium important third. Fourth place for 66 Cranefields Wine what was a very good run today for the German team and boat. The Fountain 47 Silverline made it to the course just in time, but just at the starting run had to abandon racing hopes due to engine problem.

Supersport

The new Italian team RG87, 81 Karelpiu made another display of leadership from start to finish in the limit class what was another Fountain boat dominant performance. Second place for 17 Spirit of Belgium. Third place for a reborn 43 Seagull Chaudron which made all remember that this is a Supersport champion hull for three years in a row. 43 Seagull rounded the first turn in fourth, but overtook 38 Baia Attolini after the first mark in dirty water which gave the Ukrainian team Malta boat a deserved third place podium finish. Fourth place for 38 Baia Attolini which made the last part of the Sprint race defending itself from the Outerlimits 22 Big Sergio which ultimately finished fifth wth a less to four seconds gap. A slow and disappointing run for the Donzi of 26 Team 26, which like the SNAV-Kiton from the Evolution Class was the expense of a damaged rudder to the port side Arneson surface drive. 06 Jolly Drive the diesel powered Albatro boat tried to make it to the course in the last minutes but did not manage to start the race.

EVOLUTION CLASS
1. 33 Furnibo = 11 laps 37:25,68
2. 60 Metamarine Foresti&Sguardi = 38:27,06
3. 77 Lucas Oil Scaninavian Offshore Challenge = 40:06,98
4. 66 Cranefield Wine = 52:34,70
5. 88 SNAV-Kiton = RET 1 lap
- 47 Silverline = RET 0 laps
- 55 Ukrainian Spirit = DNS
SUPERSPORT CLASS
1. 81 Karelpiu = 10 laps 38:46,82
2. 17 Spirit of Belgium = 39:20,86
3. 44 Seagull Chaudron = 40:00,71
4. 38 Baia Attolini = 40:26,73
5. 22 Big Sergio = 40:30,62
6. 26 Team 26 = 39:08,59 -1 lap
- 06 Jolly Drive = DNS
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Powerboat GPS - Malta Day 2 of 3

Second day in Malta and the obligatory official practice has just concluded. By view alone I would say the speeds are very much in line with yesterdays Powerpole. The speeds are similar to last year although I still think the margins that Cigarette Smash Poker, and the Outerlimits Lucas Oil where reaching had an extra number. Conditions are calm although they are not the flat sea we had in last years race. Forecast is for a moderate Force 3 to 4 SE. Race time is 1700 CET time.

SNAV-Kiton showed good speed this morning, and Furnibo was very close behind it. Metamarine looked lightly slower of the first two. Lucas Oil looked faster to the Searex boat, and Silverline which did the test was also performing well before going back to the pits what looked like on one engine. We hope Silverline will manage to fix the bugs and race later on. I think now it is official that the 55 Ukrainian Spirit team will not complete the full engine change, so no Malta GPS for the new Evolution contender.

In Super Sport class I was impressed by the yellow Fountain Karelpiu, which looked among the faster boats in the trials, along with the Al and Al Outerlimits boats. Nor-Tech and Baia Atollini also looked performing well, as was the diesel powered Jolly Drive. The Seagull Chaudron looked slow again, and I wonder what happened to this so well performing boat who is the 2009 Champion.

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Powerboat GPS - Malta Powerpole

A sunny sky, hot weather and a light South East breeze was the recipe of today's day one of three from the Malta Grand Prix. The Powerpole held in Marsamxett harbour was truly a spectacular affair for viewers.

EVOLUTION

The no limits class had two boats missing in the pits the Outerlimits Carconnex, and Chaudron Ukrainian Spirit. Silverline on the other hand did not make it to the Powerpole lap, altough the #47 did do the official practice in a sort of suffering, two hours before the timed lap. 88 SNAV-Kiton confirms its leadership taking the Powerpole with a third of a second advantage on second placed Furnibo. Five seconds distance for the diesel powered Metamarine, which was followed in fourth place by an improving performance from the German Cranefields Wine. Last position from the competing boats for the still disappointing 77 Lucas Oil Scandinavian Offshore Challenge.

SUPER SPORT

The 90 mph limited class again showed the potential of Team 26 who took Powerpole with a one second advantage from the always more promising Spirit of Belgium. Third place with three seconds away for Yalta Grand Prix winner 38 Baia Attolini. The new Outerlimits of Big Sergio placed fourth, with only a distance of .2 of a second from the Fountain of Italian team Karelpiu. Sixth place for the diesel Jolly Drive. While the 2009 Champion 43 Seagull Chaudron continues its run in negative waters placing last with an eleven seconds deficit from the first place.

Evolution Results:
1. 88 SNAV-Kiton = 01:45,99
2. 33 Furnibo = 01:46,35
3. 60 Metamarine = 01:50,87
4. 66 Cranefields Wine = 01:51,58
5. 77 Lucas Oil Scandinavian Offshore Challenge = 01:52,53
- 47 Silverline = DNS
- 55 Ukrainian Spirit = DNS
- 01 Carconnex = DNS
Super Sport Results:
1. 26 Team 26 = 02:04,92
2. 17 Spirit of Belgium = 02:05,94
3. 38 Baia Attolini = 02:07,92
4. 22 Big Sergio = 02:09,28
5. 81 Karelpiu = 02:09,30
6. 06 Jolly Drive = 02:10,16
7. 43 Seagull Chaudron = 02:16,58
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Powerboat GPS - Malta Day 1 of 3

Today around the Globe is all about the opening of the World Cup of Football, but for us Powerboats fans the attention turns into the second Grand Prix of the season, the classic round of Malta. Yesterday while at sea I had a glimpse of the Vector Powerboat Lucas Oil Evolution Ilmor powered sea trialling in force four seas with four feet wave height and ESE direction. Forecasts are for a Force 5 with Easterly direction. So it seems the rough sea Classic will keep its usual characteristics again this year. All participants are present in Malta in the pits minus the two Chaudron Ukrainian Spirit boats from the Evolution and Supersport Class. Powerpole is scheduled at 1800. Testing is for 1030 - 1200 and official testing from 1500 to 1600. Updates coming later on. You can also join other Powerboat GPS fans on the Facebook page here:
www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=115197361850528
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Powerboat GPS - Malta Preview

The Malta Grand Prix is in its sixth year running having started to take part in the Powerboat P1 renamed as GPS for this year since 2004. This has made the making of a classic for the central Mediterranean event, and be it for the exception of last year race, was always performed in rough seas. The drivers call the Malta Grand Prix as the Rough Sea Classic.

This years event will start on Thursday 10 June, and will continue up to the 13th. Some important changes are in place for this year event and that is for the position of the pits, which will be in the tourist mecca city of Sliema, looking to the West of capital city Valletta. The Powerpole which is to be held on Friday will also be taking part in a different area being run for the first time on Marsamxett Harbour, the West side of Valletta. The races which will be held on Saturday for Round Three Sprint Race, and Sunday Round Four Endurance show a similar course to that of last year.

The Malta Grand Prix is a favorite with 2006 and 2009 Evolution Champion OSG Racing Team Giancarlo Ciangiano, who won three Malta Grand Prix from 2007 till 2009. It is also the home race for Arron Ciantar and the Chaudron Powerboats stable. Ciantar won the Malta Grand Prix for the Super Sport class in the very rough 2008, and in last year flat calm editions.

EVOLUTION:
Pos. Boat Name - Team Name ~ Points

1. 88 SNAV-Kiton - OSG Racing Team ~ 40

A good start for 2009 Championship, although they did spun too much on Round 1.

2. 60 Metamarine Foresti&Suardi - Metamarine Corse ~ 28

The diesel boat showed power and nearly won a race. Fast more then to 2008.

3. 33 Furnibo - 2B1 Racing Team ~ 28

Took Powerpole and with a bit of luck placed well. New faster props for Malta.

4. 66 Cranefields Wine - Searex Racing Team ~ 7

Looked out propped on the Saturday race. Still managed some points!

5. 55 Ukrainian Spirit - Ukrainian Spirit ~ 0

Showed potential in rough seas race one, and nearly won it. New Mercury engines for Malta.

6. 47 Silverline Racing - Silverline ~ 0

New Fountain hull. Hope to see more of it in Malta. Showed more speed then the old Cougar.

7. 77 Lucas Oil Scandinavian - Scandinavian Offshore Challenge ~ 0

Big disappointment in Malta for one of the most expected boats.

8. 01 Carconnex - Carconnex ~ 0

The old smaller Outerlimits SV40. Did not perform so bad.

SUPERSPORT:
1. 38 Baia Attolini - Baia Attolini ~ 40

Total domination in Malta for the Italian team Donzi boat, second placed in 2009.

2. 17 Spirit of Belgium - Spirit of Belgium ~ 28

A good run from this new very good looking Nor-Tech. Can they compete for the title.

3. 22 Big Sergio - Al & Al Racing Team ~ 21

A new Outerlimits hull which show good speed. Another good looker.

4. 06 Jolly Drive - Jolly Drive Racing Team ~ 13

The only diesel power in SS class. Showed good speed and can challenge podium places.

5. 43 Seagull Chaudron - Ukrainian Spirit ~ 13

2009 champion hull with new crew. Nearly sunk in end of race 2, but saved.

6. 81 Karelpiù - RG 87 Racing Team ~ 12

Good to see a Fountain in SS Class. A podium on round 2 showed potential.

7. 26 Team 26 - Team 26 ~ 0

Trouble first weekend for 26. But if the gremlins are fixed will be a big challenge to all.

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