Honda Racing a world first

by Bob Wonders on 21 Nov 2008 Generally speaking, race boat drivers have a fair to middling knowledge of their engines.

In the case of Honda Racing however, it’s far more than fair to middling for the driver of the Formula 2000, Honda-powered racer, Darren Milgate, is a technician with the outboard manufacturer.

“I guess you could say I’m the driver, the mechanic and the crew chief,” he chuckled.

Darren is not just racing for fun, by the way, even though he enjoys it to the max.

He has a primary aim to see an environmentally friendly Honda four-stroke outboard prove highly competitive against what he terms “the dying breed” of two-stroke engines.

“We have all seen the transition from two-stroke to four-stroke in all forms of car and bike racing, including Formula 1, Motor GP, Superbikes and most off road motorcycle competition,” Darren explained.

“I believe the future for the marine side is four-stroke and we are preparing for its now,” he added.

Darren has already achieved the ‘magic ton’, 100mph (160km/hr).

His Honda is based on the company’s BF150, V-Tec, a four-cylinder, 2.4-litre powerhead with 16 valves and double over head camshaft (DOHC). The powerhead has been grafted onto a short, 12in midsection with a racing gearcase.

“Our team, Honda Marine, contesting both Formula 1 and Formula 2000 is a first for Honda anywhere in the world,” Darren proudly points out.

“The engine is the world’s first Formula 1-style, four-stroke outboard. “It is currently being run at F2000 specifications and will be developed into a Formula 1 engine in the future.

“We have already had discussions with the UIM (Union Internationale Motonautique) Formula 1 promoter in regard to four-stroke engines being approved,” he added.

Being around boats is nothing new for Darren Milgate.

He stated water ski racing at the tender age of eight, moving into the drivers’ seat eight-years later.

Although only a ‘youngster’ of 34, he can look back on more than 20-years, having driven 175hp, SMOC, MOC and 6.0-litre classes.

Honda Marine, with Darren at the wheel, has been contesting the F2000 events, but has not yet sun the full series, only selected races.

“We haven’t notched a win yet,” he said, “only a couple of seconds and thirds, but we’re improving with every outing and I’m confident a win is not too far away.”