Seoul, South Korea, October 31st, 2004….. The Match racing format certainly provided some entertainment for the crowds today in Korea at the first ever UIM F1 Powerboat Championship.

Free practice got underway this morning when drivers were allowed one more opportunity to test this unusual format.  Marco Gambi set out early this morning determined to race hard along the 800m stretch.  Unfortunately his efforts backfired when the boat flipped, double somersaulted and although he landed the right way up and was able to motor back to the pontoon he was sadly out of the Grand Prix.

The opening round of the F1 Grand Prix of Korea started with all drivers racing in two’s to secure the fastest time.  The fastest driver racing against the slowest driver based on yesterday’s qualifying times.

Cappellini started against Stallard from the Rainbow Corona Team finishing with an impressive 0.01’13.18 ahead of Stallard’s 0.01’17.83. 

“I really enjoyed the format today and although we suffered mechanical problems it was an excellent race.” Commented Stallard.

Pharaon returning after a gap of 2 races following his accident in Shanghai and raced against youngest driver Moreschi.  Pharaon sporting a new DAC boat was keen to put it through its paces.  Finishing with a very impressive time of 0.01’09.39, Pharaon catapulted in to first place.

Due to the retirement of Gambi, Cantando raced on his own – a tough call without a competitor to drive against.  Nevertheless his skilled show through with a time of 0.01’10.00.

With all drivers having completed the first round, the ten slowest drivers were given a second chance to compete in the Championship. 

Both Trask brothers raced at their best though unfortunately were beaten by Pierre Lundin and Moreschi who managed to find the extra acceleration on the home straight.

“Disappointing to be out at this stage however we’re both pleased to have got some good times and to have experience this type of racing especially if it’s to be added to the Championship format next year.” Said David Trask.

Philippe Chiappe was automatically disqualified during this round for a jump start.

During the second round just ten drivers remained and the battle commenced amongst the faster more experienced drivers all now cranking up the heat. 

Comparato paired against Cappellini got off to a great start but turning the corner onto the shorter circuit unfortunately went the wrong way round a yellow buoy and was immediately eliminated. 

Both the Emirates and Singha team mates were holding their breath when the current world championship contenders met in this round.  Fans of powerboating couldn’t have asked for a better scenario as Gillman at this stage needed just 11 points and a podium finish to snatch the 2004 World Championship victory away from Cantando. 

Both drivers accelerated away incredibly quickly, Gillman on the outside with half a boat lead.   On the final corner leading to the last stretch Cantando put in a massive effort securing a spectacular time of 0.01’08.08 - the fastest time of the F1 Powerboat Grand Prix.

Eight boats then proceeded to the quarter finals and the pressure was mounting.  Looking very strong at this stage was Sami Selio, Pharaon, Cappellini, Gillman and of course Cantando.

Once again Cantando and Cappellini proved the fastest drivers with 0.01’09.492 and 0.01’11.848 times, consecutively.  Selio and Gillman both very strong contenders at this stage moving in to the semi finals.

Tension was high for the 3rd place play off between Gillman and Selio – with the World Championship hanging in the air this was literally the deciding race, a podium finish absolutely critical for Gillman. 

Selio started off very strongly indeed and looked like he could snatch the victory.  Gillman’s skill and superior engine soon showed itself with a close finish on the home straight with a time of 0.01’09.63.  This win gave Gillman his third World Championship victory much to the jubilation of his team.

Cappellini then faced Cantando in the 1st semi final. Cantando was now on a winning streak racing ahead with a time of 0.01’09.140.

The second semi saw Cappellini race against Gillman with a victory for Cappellini of 0.01’10. 70 putting him in second place overall.

Cantando raced against Selio and secured another impressive time of 0.01’08.20 and taking the victory of the first race here in Korea.

“It was a very interesting and exciting race,” said Cantando.  “I seem to have a lot of luck winning when we visit a new country for the first time.”

“It feels wonderful to win the Championship this year,” enthused Gillman.  “I’m delighted.”

“It’s been a good experience to try out the Match Race Format,” commented Cappellini.  “My boat was perfectly set up for this style of racing and although I didn’t perform as well today I’m still very pleased with my performance.  I am now determined to race as hard as I can in Sharjah.”