Anglo-Austrian speedmeisters on searing form
Wettpunkt.com is climbing back into contention for the outright title in the Round Britain Powerboat Race after a win in today’s stage.
The boat, piloted by Hannes Bohinc, Max Holzfeind and the British Ed Williams-Hawkes, was a pre-race favourite until the engines blew on the first leg.
After a win yesterday, she showed her true form again today in the fourth leg from Bangor in Northern Ireland to Oban in Scotland.
In traditionally difficult waters, 1800hp Isotta Fraschini-powered Wettpunkt.com enjoyed a clear and drama-free run and now heads to the next start, in Inverness, in the knowledge that another inspired showing will put the Anglo-Austrian team firmly in contention.
“It was another strong performance, although we reduced our speed for the last 60 miles, dropping from 2,300 to 2,100rpm to ensure our starboard engine did not overheat,” explains throttleman Bohinc.
“We now have a full day to prepare for the next stage and rectify any problems.”
Englishman Ed Williams-Hawkes, long term navigator for Wettpunkt.com, was delighted by the result, achieved at an average speed of 76mph.
“We had white waters most of the way and around the Mull of Kintyre, a place always to be respected, the Gods looked upon us favourably whilst further North the Sleeping Giants were sleeping!”
Twenty-five of an original 48 boats arrived in Oban and the teams now enjoy a rest day as the boats head through the Caledonian Canal to Inverness on the 10-day event.
“It’s time to rest weary limbs, enjoy the scenery and sample the Scotch whisky,” says driver Max Holzfeind.
“Apart from the finish, this is the part of the adventure that I have looked forward to the most!”.
