The race is on. This weekend's Malta Grand Prix of the Sea will be much more than just an event. It will be another festival of powerboat racing with a six-year heritage of World Championships that no one can deny.
The local organisers are aiming to make this grand prix one of the foremost sporting occasions ever held in Malta, writing another chapter in the annals of the sport and creating a basis for future World Championship races within the Union Internationale Motonautique (UIM).
Malta is renowned for its rich history and traditions. And we are in the forefront once again to create this world class sporting event.
Earlier this year, P1 announced their withdrawal from their commitments with UIM.
The decision, for reasons only known to P1, was abrupt and championship teams were all taken completely by surprise.
P1's withdrawal was one disappointing announcement that sent all those involved in the sport into confusion and panic. Tension grew rapidly and it had to be the quick-thinking of UIM Pleasure Navigation Commission head Jean-Marie van Lancker that changed course into one of new structure and strategy just to save the championships.
The national federations were handed a bigger role to play and the organisations of Ukraine and Malta confronted this new challenge with vigour and determination.
At first, experience was found wanting. Indeed, no one can run this kind of competition without financial resources.
However, the initial event in Ukraine last month was a huge success. Everyone owes this one to the hard work and professional guidance of world champion Viktor Shemchuk.
Personally, I have rarely seen such large crowds attending the races and the outdoor celebrating events in one of the most beautiful places in Europe - Yalta.
Problems kept cropping up from all quarters though and there were times when some teams were going to throw in the towel.
Local promoter
Here, local promoter Reuben Caruana worked his heart out to use all his wits and energy to get the Malta Grand Prix of the Sea going, even at the point of risking his investment in this project against all odds.
So, finally, there is now an air of excitement. Anticipation is building for this weekend beyond anything that we have ever experienced before.
The interest that this dynamic sport generates within the marine industry is unprecedented. So much so that we are expecting a full fleet of championship teams in both SuperSport and Evolution classes.
The World Cup gets underway on Friday, so will the UIM Powerboat Championships in Malta as Power Pole racing is scheduled at Marsamxett Harbour at 6 p.m.
The next two days of racing will be the seal of the future.