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16/06/2007 - Calm waters spur on powerboat racers

Calm waters set the scene for some spectacular racing today (16th June) as the Isle of Man’s Douglas Bay hosted the third round of the Honda Formula 4-Stroke Powerboat Series.

The mid-week high swells and heavy winds which had threatened this weekend’s racing cleared and large crowds gathered on Douglas Promenade to witness some exhilarating racing in both 150hp and 225hp series.

Neil Crabb and Lee Darbyshire in ‘Premier Cru’ were in startling form holding off a formidable challenge from the championship’s two new ‘hotshots’ Jak Cockman and Andy Phipps in ‘Cider Daze 150’.

“The boat was set up well and we got a great start,” said Crabb. “Credit to Jak and Andy who pushed us extremely hard from the word go. Even on the last lap we couldn’t let up. A slight lapse in concentration would have resulted in a different outcome. I think they’ll get stronger as the season develops so we’ve got some exciting racing ahead of us.”

In an equally thrilling 225hp race, Gavin Parsonage and Nathan Libby in ’Negotiator’ stormed home in first place ahead of a newly invigorated Shelly Jory and Libby Keir in‘Team Raymarine’ who finished in second.

“We’re thrilled,” said Parsonage. “It was a great race with an extremely close start and I was pleased we got out in front. It was then just a question of holding our position.”

HF4S’s presence in Douglas not only adds to the island’s portfolio of high-profile sporting events, but also strengthens Honda’s own links with the venue.

“It’s been a great couple of weeks for Honda on the Isle of Man,” said Martin Sanders, General Manager Power Equipment, Honda (UK). “John McGuinness became the first rider in TT history to break the 130mph (average) barrier last week when he won the legendary race on a Honda. The spectacular Honda Formula 4-Stroke Series made its first appearance on the Isle of Man in 2005, and following its huge success in 2006, it was natural to return here for 2007.” The Steam Packet Company Grand Prix continues tomorrow (17th June) starting at 13:00.

For further information on the Honda Formula 4-Stroke Powerboat Series go to http://www.honda-racing.co.uk/championships/2007/hf4s/