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Qatar 96 show superb form in Class III event
The UAE drivers throttled it to race alongside teams from Italy, Bangladesh, UK, USA, Lebanon and Qatar in the fourth heat of the GCC Class III Powerboat Championship (for 6-litre) on Saturday.
- Staff Report
- Published: 00:00 April 16, 2007
Dubai: The UAE drivers throttled it to race alongside teams from Italy, Bangladesh, UK, USA, Lebanon and Qatar in the fourth heat of the GCC Class III Powerboat Championship (for 6-litre) on Saturday.
The event was held under the patronage of Shaikh Mayed Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum off the waters of the Dubai International Marine Club at Mina Seyahi.
The event, organised by Dubai International Marine Club (DIMC), attracted 16 teams and ended in a tight finish as Qatar 96, with Matteo Nicolini of Class 1 fame and partner Mohammad Al Nasser put on an astonishing display. They finished in 34.34 minutes at an average speed of 146.26kmph for the first place.
They were followed by PRO Marine, with Paul Whittier and Gary Ballough, at an average speed of 145.11 kmph.
Antonio De Tommaso and Serafino Barlesi, in Servizi Fondiari, were 35 seconds short of Pro Marine and finished third at an average speed of 142.44 kmph.
Impressive show
The leaders are now Qatar 96, having participated in three of the four heats held so far and having taken first and second place so far in the two heats.
PRO Marine has raced in two heats and stays in second place - thanks to their victory on Saturday.
Kingfisher, despite having been placed fourth in yesterday's race, jumps up one notch due to their participation in three of the four heats held so far, sending Damas down by one, since they have run only two races so far.
The final heat will be held in Abu Dhabi on Friday.
Speaking at the DIMC press office, Shaikh Mayed later said: "I am overwhelmed to see such a huge gathering here to witness this race. It makes me very proud and I shall continue to support the good work started by Saeed Hareb and his team."
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