Momentum picking up for Malta GP

Martin McDonald, from KBL Powerboat Management Ltd, was present yesterday for the launching of this month's opening race of the Powerboat P1 World Championship season - the Malta Grand Prix - at the VISET Office, Pinto Wharf.

Speaking during a meeting with the press, also attended by Team OSG Donzi owner Giancarlo Cangiano, McDonald is optimistic that the 2004 championship, after the inaugural one of last year, will continue to enhance the reputation of power boats as a popular sport and the equivalent of Formula One car racing on water.

"Last year we started with only three teams but the momentum gathered on strongly as the races went along," he said.

"This time round, the response was even better. For the May 29/30 Malta Grand Prix we've already got 15 boats registered. There will be between 10 and 15 teams."

Teams from Italy, Switzerland, Austria, France and the UK will be arriving with their high-powered boats next week at the Grand Harbour.

"We're anxiously waiting to get the 2004 championship going," Cangiano said.

"This is a testing period for us all. In three years' time there are plans to have 24 teams in each category. That sounds ambitious, but the preparation is serious. I'm sure the KBL Powerboat Management Ltd will reach their goal."

Organisers said the boats will be transferred to the Dry Pit Area at the Valletta Waterfront on their arrival for testing ahead of an official parade on Friday at 5 p.m.

"This will be a unique opportunity for the Maltese," McDonald said.

"We opted for Malta because of the cultural heritage of the islands and also the ideal sea conditions and weather stability. The Grand Harbour, where our boats will be based, offers one of the best backgrounds we've ever had so far during championship races."

Saturday, May 29 will be reserved for Endurance racing. Teams in both Evolution and SuperSport categories will race a number of short laps along the east coast, between Sliema and Mellieha.

All boats will then complete a total circumnavigation of Malta which will be recorded by the UIM, the Powerboat P1 governing body, in order to set a speed record for the fastest circuit of the island.

There is more than one team likely to achieve the best times including world Evolution champion Corrado Pizzardi and his team.

The winners will be awarded with a trophy, sponsored by Sunseeker Malta.

On Sunday, May 30, racing will be classed as Rally. Boats in Evolution category (prototypes) will cover a course of around 66 nautical miles with SuperSport boats (production) racing over 55 nautical miles.

Both days of the Malta Grand Prix are free to view for the public. On Saturday, action starts from 2.30 p.m. Viewing on Sunday will be best between Sliema Point and Mellieha Bay.

Asked if any bad weather could disrupt the programme, McDonald said last year Grand Prix racing were held in Force 6-8 winds in Morocco.

"That is highly unlikely to happen at this particular time of the year in Maltese waters. It would be very difficult to cancel racing because of inclement conditions."

Key sponsors of the Grand Prix weekend include the Ministry of Tourism, Malta Tourism Authority, Valletta Waterfront, Grimaldi Ferries and SIXT car rental.