The 2005 Honda Formula 4-Stroke Grand Prix calendar includes two new venues. The fleet will be racing for the first time at Liverpool and the Isle of Man while returning to the popular locations of Guernsey, Largs and Plymouth.
The 2005 Honda Formula 4-Stroke Grand Prix calendar includes two new venues. The fleet will be racing for the first time at Liverpool and the Isle of Man while returning to the popular locations of Guernsey, Largs and Plymouth.
The world’s largest offshore powerboat series enters its seventh season with a growing fleet in the 150hp and 225hp championships. This year will also see the inception of the new Honda Enduro class, featuring three prototype 32ft (10m) Cougar Enduro rigid hull inflatables (Rib), powered by twin Honda 225hp engines. Unveiled at the Schroders London International Boat Show in January, they will appear for the first time at the Scottish Grand Prix in May.
“A lot of time and planning has gone into the 2005 Honda Formula 4-Stroke calendar,” comments Martin Sanders, General Manager, Power Equipment, Honda (UK). “Guernsey and Largs are both popular venues with beautiful settings, excellent spectator platforms, good facilities and exciting courses. Plymouth is an important event for British powerboating as the Honda Formula 4-Stroke Grand Prix combines with the British round of the international world Class 1 Championship.
“The Formula 4-Stroke Association has chosen Liverpool not only for the aesthetics of location but also because of its strong maritime heritage. We are pleased to help celebrate the city’s standing as European Capital of Culture 2008.
“Although the Isle of Man has a long association with offshore racing, including both Round Britain events in 1969 and ’84, it will be an exciting new experience for the Honda fleet. Our marque has a strong tie with the island through the TT and we’re looking forward to racing there on both two wheels and water this year.
“Honda Formula 4-Stroke’s seventh season is shaping up to be its most successful yet,” finishes Sanders “There is an air of heightened anticipation amongst organisers and competitors as more boats and more classes are set to race for the chequered flag.”
“The 2005 calendar reflects the continual growth of the Honda Formula 4-Stroke series,” comments 6- time Class 1 World Powerboat Champion and HF4S series organiser Steve Curtis. “This year we celebrate our seventh successful season and the 60th Honda Formula 4-Stroke race. It will also see the introduction of the new endurance class. By constantly refreshing the calendar with well-researched quality venues and ensuring the competitors remain challenged and interested by the racing, the series remains at the top of the sport.”
The 2005 Honda Formula 4-Stroke 150hp, 225hp and Enduro championships each feature 10 rounds at 5 grands prix around the UK. The season kicks off with the Scottish Grand Prix of Largs on 28/29 May.
Honda Formula 4-Stroke Grand Prix calendar 2005
· Grand Prix of Largs May 28/29
· Grand Prix of The Isle of Man June 25/26
· Grand Prix of Plymouth July 16/17
· Grand Prix of Liverpoo August 20/21
· Grand Prix of Guernsey September 10/11
