Honda Formula 4-Stroke: Power of Dreams Germany takes 225hp win

5:09 AM Tue 12 May 2009 GMT

'Power of Dreams Gerrmany - Honda Formula 4-Stroke Grand Prix Wales' Keith Slater

Local powerboat enthusiasts gathered across the beach frontage at Marian y De to see the return of the World's largest powerboat race series.

The Honda Formula 4-Stroke Grand Prix which has returned to Wales after a six year absence has once again marked a fantastic impression of the sport upon the area at the first race of the 2009 season. Spectators were spoilt by double action today as Saturdays races were taken on top of Sunday's due to the postponement on the first race day which was caused by bad sea states.

In total four separate races made up the opening race day of the Grand Prix which provided onlookers with some fantastic race entertainment. Racing began at 11am with the 150hp fleet after a short delay due to a seal on the race course. Hydrex took an early advantage in champion style which soon opened up a ten length boat gap. The team put on maximum performance once again and continued in their winning style throughout the day taking two firsts home in both 150hp races.

Local team Mr. Daydream crewed by Driver Andy Musgrave and Navigator Chris Smith, who were instrumental in bringing the Honda F4SA race series back to Wales, managed a good position despite being one of two rookie teams to join the 150hp fleet this season. Both crew members however did come across some confusion when they missed a mark in race one and unfortunately over took a boat whilst a yellow flag was deployed in race two.

Premier Cru pushed into second place position during both 150hp races and look like they may become tough competition this season for any teams hoping to snatch the spot. However in close contention over third place were Delmar and Team Williams who took third place in each race consecutively. Setting a slightly faster pace for the day was the fleet of the 225hp who took to the course with fierce competition to make their first mark on the 2009 Championship standings.

Premier Cru - Honda Formula 4-Stroke Grand Prix Wales - Keith Slater

In a first ever victory with the F4SA series were Power of Dreams Germany. The crew consisting of Driver Mark Neimann and Navigator Ronny Steudel set a winning streak again in race two with a two boat gap away from second place.

Competing over second and third places in both 225hp races were Vortigern and Team Williams, each sharing the places over both races with Vortigern taking up second in race one and Team Williams in race two. The pair were in high contention throughout and made for some exciting close racing in their battle to catch the honours.

Power of Dreams Germany - winner - Honda Formula 4-Stroke Grand Prix Wales - Keith Slater

The weekend rounded up with a podium prize giving ceremony held outside the Pwllheli Sailing Club which was hosted by Commodore David Hulse and Richard Tudor World skipper of the Round the World British Steel Challenge.

The Honda Formula 4-Stroke Powerboat Race Series heads to the West Country for the next race of the 2009 season when teams will compete in the Plymouth Grand Prix on June 20th and 21st.