Sunset Beach, Saudi Arabia, March 24, 2004.... Guests at the stunning Sunset Beach were in for a treat today as the usual tranquillity of this stunning resort was shaken by the revving of high speed F1 Powerboat engines as teams started preparing for the inaugural UIM F1 Powerboat Grand Prix of Saudi Arabia.

Testing this 1.77km course has caused some concerns among drivers with strong current and winds making conditions challenging.  A demanding route comprising 1 right hander and 5 left handers with a long straight back from the outset will deliver some breathtaking speeds.  However a sharp 135 degree left hand corner close to the wall following the straight will undoubtedly stir up the waters further and provide some difficult backwash.

Following the rough conditions in Mumbai, drivers are wary of the swells here in Saudi and are closely monitoring the situation.

Drivers most likely to perform best in these waters are Scott Gillman - undoubtedly the best rough water driver in the Championship and Francesco Cantando who is eager to win his second race in a row following his outstanding victory in India earlier this month.  A win here in Saudi would give Cantando a comfortable lead for the 6 week break before the championship heads to Portimao in Portugal May 14-16, 2004.

Current eight times world champion, Guido Cappellini does not fare so well in rougher conditions and sports a slightly shorter boat, better equipped for calmer waters. Undeterred, the champion was in good spirits, "We are well prepared both the engines and the boats are ready and we're really looking forward to the qualifying session tomorrow.  We secured pole position in similar conditions in India so I'm confident we can do the same again here."

Organisers have been highly impressed with the set up at Sunset Beach. "With an abundance of water and a population that enjoys water sports we are delighted to bring the race to Saudi Arabia, another new country to add to the 2004 UIM F1 Powerboat Championship season. We are extremely grateful to His Royal Highness Prince Faisal Bin Fahd for all his support," commented race promoter, Nicolo di San Germano. 

The first timed trials commence at 12 noon tomorrow, Thursday 25th March, followed by the second timed trials at 15:30 and the Shoot Out scheduled for 16:30.

Live TV Coverage of the race on Friday on 12:45 GMT on AB Moteurs, the Sailing Channel, TV7 in Russia and Channel 3 in Saudi Arabia.