Formula 3 North American Championships - Tammy Wolf Racing on podium

by Tammy Wolf on 28 Jul 2012 Following a great race overseas at the 24 hours of Rouen in France, Tammy Wolf Racing and the team competed at the North American Championships and solidified a spot on the podium.

The 2012 Formula 3 North American Championships were held this year on July 3rd, during Pittsburgh Three Rivers Regatta. Over 500,000 spectators turned out to enjoy the adrenaline pumping formula powerboat racing action on the Allegheny River in front of Heinz Field. During our final test session before heading to Pittsburgh, PA the team had major mechanical issues with our primary motor. After seven hours of diagnostic work the team elected to replace it with a back-up engine. This year the series changed its racing format, removing qualifying. The program included time trials and final 20-lap heat race. It was essential that the team do well during time trails to gain a good position on the start dock.

The course was set as a four pin, oval, 32 second course. It was situated under a bridge, racing under it caused a wind change and a tunnelling effect of air under the boats, numerous boat become airborne, and luckily there were no accidents this year.

Pittsburgh always attracts the best teams in Formula 3. They are captivated by the challenging water conditions and the thrill of racing in a large metropolitan area. The team was able to clench the third fasted time allowing us to start third on the gird. This was a great accomplishment competing against teams that had already raced this season and had their boats fully dialled in. We were very please the back-up motor was doing well. Pittsburgh is a rough race and we needed to fight hard to get a podium finish.

The 20-lap final was intense competing not only against the competition but the Alleghany current and large pieces of debris in the water.

When the white flag dropped we were first off the dock not having the inside line was detrimental to our lead. After the first turn we were in second place and fighting to defend our second place position while trying to minimize the distance between us and the leader.

After 20 laps, when the checkered flag completed the race, we were very pleased to get the runner-up position at the 2012 Formula 3 North American Championships.

The teams next race will be our Regional Championships at Marietta’s Riverfront Roar in Marietta, Ohio We invite everyone to come enjoy the festival. Marietta’s riverfront shuts down for the powerboat races.

Tammy Wolf Racing website