Shanghai, China, August 1, 2004…. Chinese junks, rooftops, balconies, pavements, grandstands and every conceivable space was filled full of people craning to the see the Formula One powerboats race in front of the Bund today for the UIM F1 Powerboat Grand Prix of China, in Shanghai.
Racing got underway with American Scott Gillman taking an immediate lead, pushing hard to stay ahead of his competitors. It was obvious that Cappellini was determined to get maximum points and he quickly passed the other drivers into 3rd place behind Team Green driver, Laith Pharaon.
Australian David Trask secured an excellent fifth position from the outset holding off other drivers with superb driving skills until lap 34 when unfortunately engine failure prevented him from finishing the race.
By lap 8 Cappellini had moved into 2nd position with a time of 0:56.46. Disaster struck on lap 14 when Portuguese Duarte Benevente suffered engine failure and pulled out of the race where he was narrowly missed by Belgium Julius Leysen from Selio Team. Unfortunately Leysen’s luck had run out after he passed Thani from the Emirates Team and was hit by a big wave causing him to nose dive out of the race..
The yellow flag was raised forcing boats to slow down for a number of laps while the driver was rescued and debris cleared. This provided a much welcome opportunity for drivers to cool down from the overwhelming temperatures inside the cockpit.
Racing commenced on lap 25 and within seconds another spectacular crash right in front of the grandstand occurred when Saudi driver, Laith Pharaon’s boat hit a large wave careering it out of the water and landing head first. Laith was quickly rescued and taken to hospital for a check up.
With just 17 laps left and a lot less boats left on the grid drivers were more determined than ever to race for points. Despite two yellow flags, Gillman managed to hang on to the lead ahead of Cappellini right to the chequered flag.
In the final laps hot shot Francesco Cantando from Singha Racing team raced past Fabio Comparato and into third place, snatching away the chance of a podium finish from his Italian compatriot.
Cantando’s team mate, Max Moreschi at just 20 years old drove exceptionally well finishing in 7th position of his best of his career to date.
New driver on the circuit from Rainbow Corona Extra managed to finish the race, albeit in 12th position however he was pleased with his performance. “I have to find my feet in this new boat,” Jamey enthused. “However I’m delighted to have raced through to the end at my first race in China!”
F1 Powerboat Promoter Nicolo di San Germano was delighted with today’s race. “The crowds were exceptional we estimated approximately one million viewers – I’m sure everyone who watched the race will be a real fan – they got a treat with a few incidents, fast racing and some hair raising moments. Thank you to the City of Shanghai for making this a success!”
Gillman’s victory makes this his fourth win in the 2004 Championship and his 18th career victory to date. “It was a difficult race in the heat especially as I knew Cappellini was chasing hard. It’s always great fun to race against both Cappellini and Cantando and I really enjoyed it. I’m now very much looking forward to racing in Singapore,” he said.
Gillman now leads the world championship with 92 points.
Cappellini was happy with his podium finish. “I pushed hard for the first 24 laps today but Scott was going far too fast for me to catch him. My set up was good for the corners but not so perfect for the long stretches so I decided to settle for a strong second and take my 15 points,” commented Cappellini.
Cantando started from 8th position on the grid managed to claw his way forwards to a third place victory. “It really was not an easy race today – so hot!! However I’m very happy with my results and to get a place on the podium is always a great feeling!” Cantando enthused.
The UIM F1 Powerboat Championship moves to Singapore on the spectacular Marina Bay against a dramatic city backdrop. Catch the action from September 18-19, 2004.
