Australian Formula 1 Superboats -Newcastle Harbour

by Event media on 25 May 2007 The XLR8 Home Loans Australian Formula 1 Superboat Series is certainly producing thoroughbred drivers who can mix it with the best in the World. On the June Long Weekend, Newcastle will be able to see this world class field up close on the wonderful Newcastle Harbour.

The Trask Development team are currently overseas competing in the World Series and will be back just in time for the event. Brothers David and Bob placed 7 and 11 respectively in Portugal; with 14 and 11 respectively in France. David also secured his place as the first Aussie to ever qualify fastest and start from pole in the World Championship. Congratulations to David Trask on such an achievement. This, added to his round win at Toukley, will make him the man to beat in Newcastle.

Many of the other teams have been working feverishly to overcome damage sustained in Round 2 and are looking forward to the opportunity of taking it to the Trask Brothers.

2006 Australian Champion Rhys Coles’ is rumoured to have added a secret power plant to his machine to guard against the battery failure set back at Toukley; could it be a case of Byron Bay Ale as an power pack?

Shane Vella has replaced his weakest link after throttle problems last round and he is ready to continue the fantastic race form that has him currently second in the Series.

XLR8 Home Loans’ Craig Truslove is on a high after winning the Sydney Bridge to Bridge race and has been refining his machine for the circuit layout at Newcastle.

Capable of speeds up to 240 kph and the ability to reach 160 kph in 4 seconds from a standing start, the F1 Superboats are the ultimate water borne speed machine and last year’s Newcastle Grand Prix clearly demonstrated to spectators that potential disaster is only a fraction of a second away at these incredible speeds. Anthony McEnnally discovered this when his machine was involved in one of the most spectacular rollovers the Series has ever seen. The Tohatsu Rescue crew were quick to act, retrieving him and what was left of the boats. Thanks to the incredible safety requirements bruised egos were the only injuries sustained. Overall the event was as exciting for the spectators, as it was challenging for the drivers.

The 2007 event will be filled with excitement as an excellent field of F1 boats accompanied by support classes of F2000, F3 and Mono Sports take to the water. The best vantage spot to see the racing and feel the excitement is in the Pit Area on Throsby and Lee Wharves. Club Superboat will be open on race day; eat, drink and enjoy the uninterrupted view of the course from it’s VIP Marquee. There is something for everyone. Helicopter rides, food and drinks will be available and there’s plenty of parking, so bring the whole family to the Fastest Show on Water!

The Newcastle Formula 1 Superboat Grand Prix is proudly supported by Honeysuckle Corporation, Ibis Hotel Newcastle, HeliServices, Newcastle Herald, NBN, New FM.

For more information on Club Superboat, this event or the XLR8 Home Loans Australian Formula 1 Series check out www.f1boat.com.au