The Cowes-Torquay-Cowes Powerboat Race

When Powerboat PI decided to cancel the 2008 Cowes Classic powerboat event as a result of insufficient entries, the British Powerboat Racing Club in conjunction with the Cowes Organising Committee met with the Royal Yachting Association and following meetings with the Cowes Yacht Haven and other interested parties are delighted to announce that not only will the event take place on 22nd - 24th August 2008 but the entries for the Cowes - Torquay - Cowes race are now standing at an amazing 41 boats.

The legendary Fabio Buzzi and Class 1 Driver Hannes Bohinc have both pledged their support for the race. This will be Fabio's final race, as the 65 year old veteran powerboat racer intends to retire following the event.

Mike Lloyd, Event Director said, 'We have been able to resurrect this event due to the passion and dedication of those involved and to the generosity of those who wish to see the race, which started in the Solent waters in 1960 as the brainchild of Sir Max Aitken and John Coote, continue to grace the Solent waters. We are especially grateful to the Cowes Yacht Haven for their help and collaboration and to all those who have given their time and energy to save this event.'

Joining the 41 entrants is local Cowes powerboat owner Tony Hamilton. Tony took part in the 2008 Round Britain Offshore Powerboat Race recently and after being air-lifted to hospital during the race is resolute in his determination to return to the water for the Cowes Classic. Tony said, 'Fabio has been an inspiration to many and is highly respected throughout the powerboating world. He is a racer's racer and is a legend in his own lifetime. The fact that he has chosen the Cowes - Torquay - Cowes race to end his racing career is a tribute to Cowes as he could have picked any race anywhere in the world. I and many others will support this race not only for Fabio but for the continuation of the race for future generations of powerboaters.'