3:37 AM Thu 21 Jan 2010 GMT
The calendar for the Australian 2010 Offshore Superboat Championships is in the throes of being confirmed, with organisers hopeful of securing race on Sydney Harbour.
At this stage, the opening race of the season has been confirmed for April 17 at either Sydney or Newcastle depending on the outcome of discussions.
Why not Sydney and Newcastle?
Apparently this comes down to sponsorship support, with organisers doubtful of securing enough backing for two New South Wales races.
Other events virtually confirmed comprise Mackay (June 27), Townsville (July 4), Redcliffe (September 12), Melbourne (November 14) and Geelong (November 21).
The Melbourne event is almost certainly to be staged off St.Kilda, instead of the previous venue at Williamtown.
Again, it was lack of sponsorship support that led to Williamtown being dropped.
Three major classes will contest the championships; Class 1, Supercat Outboard, and Supercat Outboard Lite.
Depending on entries received, a Super Vee and a Production Class may also be included.
The three reigning titleholders, Maritimo (Class 1), SUV Dodge Ram (Supercat Outboard) and Team Tiger (Supercat Outboard Lite) have all confirmed their intention to defend their championships.
Paul Gibbs, chairman of the Offshore Superboat Championships, said the organisers were always 'on the hunt' for suitable venues. At times, suitable venues can be located, but we also need sponsorship or financial support,' he added.
'It costs a lot of money to bring the event to a destination, but many have found hosting the racing to be a valuable factor in their town or city's funding.
'Several municipal councils have supported the event in recent years and all have received good value.
'Hosting the championships brings in large numbers of people, competitors, mechanics, and support teams and of course spectators, and they all spend money at local restaurants, service stations, motels and the like.
'We are currently engaged in talks with a number of venues and hope to release details shortly,' he added.
by Bob Wonders
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Macquarie Island, TAS
