Putrajaya - Kuala Lumpur Malaysia, September 24, 2004…. After a spectacular race in Singapore the UIM F1 Powerboat Championship moves to the impressive Putrajaya Lake Club, Precinct 8 on the outskirts of Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia.
Gillman high on the success from Singapore and currently leading by 42 points in the 2004 World Championship, is feeling very confident for this race. “I expect a very fast race as the water conditions are flatter. The only challenge is which propeller to choose for the longer stretches,” he commented.
Tension is high in the Tamoil team as both drivers failed to complete the race in Singapore, making the chance of snatching the Championship in 2004 even more remote. “There is definitely a feeling of pressure among the team for this race,” commented Guido Cappellini “However I’m hopeful with our experience we can do well.”
Cappellini’s second driver Ivan Brigada was involved in a major crash with Cantando on the first lap in Singapore and was rushed to hospital for observation. “I will participate in the free trial tomorrow morning and then we’ll see if I’m fit to race. I hope so as I felt I was making strong progress over the last race weekend before the accident,” said Brigada.
Future hopes for the Tamoil team are being pinned on this young F2000 driver who is certainly turning heads at this late stage in the Championship.
British driver Andy Elliott received a major boost with the surprise sponsorship from the Malaysian Ambank Company who has literally covered the boats with their strong red and yellow corporate colours, certain to capture the spectator’s attention. Andy is joined by local driver Simon Saw who comes fresh from the Middle East International F2 Championship. “I’m really excited to race here in Malaysia and represent my country,” he commented.
“The boats are going well,” said Andy Elliot. “I am sure both Simon and I will have a good race.”
Hopes are high in Team Green with driver Massimo Roggiero having won the Grand Prix of Malaysia in 2004. “I hope I can do the same again this year,” enthused Massimo.
The course is 1735metres in length comprising of 1 right hander and 4 left handers. The course takes the boats right under the bridge and close to the shores of the Lake Club.
“This race will be quick,” said David Trask from Australian Seaquest Team. “I’m looking forward to racing as I have my good engine back in place after it blew up in Shanghai.”
Philippe Dessertenne still smiling from his 2nd place win in Singapore is confident for Malaysia. “I have finished every race this year and although I much prefer rougher race conditions like my team-mate Philippe Chiappe, I am sure I can put up a good fight against the favourite Gillman.” said Dessertenne.
Event organisers H2O Sports have worked hard to bring the event to the Lake Club at Putrajaya – a stunning location destined to become a major watersports venue in the near future.
“It has been challenging as the location is much bigger than the Mines last year. However we’re ready and excited and we’re hopeful of another success in 2004,” commented Data Yahya A Jalil, Managing Director of H2O Sports.
“Every year I continue to be impressed,” enthused F1 Race Promoter Nicolo di San Germano. “Malaysia is well organised, exciting and fun and I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to H2O Sports for all their help,” Nicolo added.
Qualifying sessions take place tomorrow Saturday 25 September at 13:15 and 15:15 followed by the six boat Shoot Out to determine the pole position. The Grand Prix of Malaysia will start at 14:30, Sunday 25 September.
Live broadcast can be seen locally in Malaysia on TV3.
