The F1h2o Powerboat season got off to a great start last weekend in Doha. Adrenalin levels were flying high for both drivers and spectators who turned up in their droves to witness the World Championships first race of 2011 on March 5. The Qatar Team’s hotly-tipped new duo Jay Price and Alex Carella proved a winning combination as they scored a resounding victory taking first and second place.

American Price beat defending World Champion Sami Selio of Finland for 29 of the 35 laps and overtook him in the final six laps to secure his second straight win at his team’s home Grand Prix and the 10th of his career. Price was joined on the podium by his new team mate Alex Carella, who finished just 6.62 seconds behind him while Philippe Chiappe of the CTIC China Team finished third.

Unfortunately for Mad Croc Team driver Selio, his propeller shaft failed and he came to an immediate stop ending the first race of the season in tears. Italian Davide Padovan gave the Mad Croc Team their only points of the day finishing sixth place in his first race as Selio’s teammate. Similarly Team Abu Dhabi’s Thani Al Qamzi came seventh scoring the only points for the team as his teammate Ahmad Al Hameli experienced mechanical problems that took him out 20 laps into the 35 lap event.

We were also happy to see that female driver Marit Stromoy of Norway continued to stand strong against the boys and secured Team Nautica their first points of the season with a fine eighth place finish.

The Championships move to Europe on May 22 for one of the most anticipated Grand Prix’s of the year in Portimao. Check back with The Marine Guide for full F1h2o coverage throughout the year.

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