News Article

The UK's premier powerboat championship, the Honda Formula 4-Stroke series, is set to race on Tyneside for the first time ever this summer.

Part of NewcastleGateshead Initiative's world-class programme of festivals and events for 2006, the Powerboat Grand Prix will take place on 22nd-23rd July at South Shields.

This is the eighth season for the world's largest offshore powerboat series and organisers are expecting more boats than ever before in both the 150hp and 225hp championships, with confirmed entries of 18 in each class.

Stella Hall, Creative Director at NewcastleGateshead Initiative, said: "It's quite a coup to bring this world-class sporting championship to North East England for the first time. Free and accessible for all the family, this fast-paced, high-profile event has been planned to take place in close proximity to the shore, guaranteeing a spectacular view and exciting day out for spectators. 

"It's yet another great example of our capacity to stage large-scale, world-class events in all cultural spheres from art and music to dance and sport."

The event is being organised in partnership with South Tyneside Council and more details of activities and events planned to take place in South Shields over the weekend of the Grand Prix will be announced soon.

 Martin Sanders, General Manager, Honda (UK) Power Equipment, said: "A lot of time and planning has gone into the 2006 Honda Formula 4-Stroke calendar. The South Tyneside location of South-Shields has been chosen not only for the aesthetics of the location but also because of its excellent spectator credentials.

"Honda Formula 4-Stroke's eighth season is shaping up to be its most successful yet.  There is an air of heightened anticipation amongst organisers and competitors as more boats are set to race for the chequered flag."

Steve Curtis, seven-times UIM Class 1 World Powerboat Champion and HF4S series organiser, said: "The 2006 calendar reflects the continual growth of the Honda Formula 4-Stroke series. This year we celebrate the eighth successful season of the championship. By constantly refreshing the calendar with well-researched quality venues and ensuring that the competitors continue to be challenged and interested by the racing, the series remains at the top of its sport."

The 2006 Honda Formula 4-Stroke 150hp and 225hp championships each feature ten rounds at five Grands Prix around the UK.  

2006 Honda Formula 4-Stroke Grand Prix calendar:

Steam Packet Company Grand Prix of the Isle of Man   June 24/25

Grand Prix of Tyneside                                                     July 22/23

Grand Prix of Plymouth                                                     August 5/6

Grand Prix of Cowes                                                         August 26/27

Grand Prix of Liverpool                                                   September 9/10

 Ends

 Media contacts:

Kathie Wilcox, PR Manager - Destination & Events, NewcastleGateshead Initiative, T +44 (0)191 243 8806, M +44 (0)7946 581417, E kathie.wilcox@ngi.org.uk

PR for Honda Formula 4-Stroke series, Charlotte Rough, T +44 (0) 20 7384 8715, charlotte.rough@fingal.co.uk

Kathie Wilcox
Media and PR Manager - Destination & Events
T +44 (0)191 243 8806
F +44 (0)191 222 1282
M +44 (0)7946 581417
E kathie.wilcox@ngi.org.uk
 
NewcastleGateshead Initiative
4th Floor, Central Square South, Orchard Street, Newcastle NE1 3AZ
http://www.visitNewcastleGateshead.com
 
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