20 boats vie for $1m prize in world series

Dubai: The 2012 season of the spectacular UIM X-Cat World Powerboat Series kicks off tomorrow with the Dubai Grand Prix at Mina Seyahi, off the shores of the Dubai International Marine Club.

Some of the top powerboat teams and racers will be joining the series for $1 million — one of the biggest prize funds in the sport.

This year's line-up will be packed with experienced drivers and throttlemen from all parts of the world.

Approximately 20 boats will form the 2012 grid, with back-to-back X-Cat champions Extreme Marine, Fazza and Spirit of Qatar being among this year's X-Cat contestants.

The 2012 calendar will consist of six heats organised in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Khor Fakkan and Fujairah.

Spectators in Dubai will be able to view the action from the DIMC Mina Seyahi breakwater with free access, while the race will also be visible from the Palm Jumeirah close to Zabeel Saray Hotel.

The Dubai Grand Prix will start at 3.30pm tomorrow. Official practice will take place today from 2pm to 4pm and pole position will be decided tomorrow at 10.30am.