Powerboat P1 - Colpin recognised for marathon effort

by Powerboat P1 on 22 Jan 2010 Belgian pilot Pierre Colpin from 2B1 Furnibo has narrowly missed out on winning the title of Knokke-Heist Sportsman of the Year 2009.

Normally commandeered by either the country’s star tennis players or outstanding array of cyclists, Colpin lost out on the glory to 60-year-old Mr. Roland Boussemaere, who ran a staggering 12 marathons in the last 12 months.

'It was a privilege to be nominated and for powerboating to be recognised amongst the categories,' said Colpin. 'Alongside our two race victories last year and third place overall in the final season rankings, this sits up there as one of my personal highlights.'

Colpin conceded he would be sharing his acclaim with co-pilot, Frank Hemalaer, attributing his latest gong to the pair’s natural understanding in the cockpit and their invaluable friendship.

'Frank is an incredibly good throttlleman. It’s not just the boat and the engine power, although they do make a difference, but it’s about finding the right touch and understanding, especially when you are racing at speeds nearing 120 mph, is priceless.'

2B1 Furnibo will be hoping to continue from where they left off in 2009. The team’s hard-fought victories in Sweden and Sicily has given them 'wings and a lot of confidence,' according to Colpin. Coupled with the invaluable experience gained from racing its new boat for the entire 2009 season, Colpin pinpoints the jubilant scenes at Sunday’s Sicilian Grand Prix of the Sea podium as plenty of reason to think they can go better in 2010.

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