subject: Young Powerboaters Make Waves in the UK [print this page] For the first time ever, the world'sjunior powerboating talent is being showcased in the UK, with the arrival of the UIM Formula Future World and Continental Championship. Competitors aged between 8 and 18 years will be battling it out for a place on the podium in disciplines such as slalom and manoeuvring over the weekend of 13th-15th August.
The Championship is being held at the Lancashire Powerboat Racing Club in St Helens, Merseyside, and will consist of each class (defined by competitors' ages) competing in three timed stages. Stage one is a free practise, while stages two and three are designed to test participants' skills. Stage two requires contestants to demonstrate manoeuvres through a course, tie various knots and for older classes, complete a man overboard manoeuvre. Stage three is a parallel slalom. Points are awarded based on time taken to complete each stage, with penalties added for breach of regulations.
The competition is being hosted by the Royal Yachting Association and sponsored by Powerboat P1. UIM President Dr RaffaeleChiulli will be in attendance to show support for the youngsters. RYA Powerboat Racing Manager John Puddifoot said,
"Formula Future is a fantastic way of showcasing the young powerboating talent we have not only in this country but all over the world. We are looking forward to what promises to be a very exciting and close fought weekend of racing."
Spectators are welcome to come and support Great Britain the event, which starts at 9am on Saturday 14th and has free entry.
