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PGG’s Joe Blakiston has been involved in running the iconic Lake Rotoiti Power Boat Regatta for many years, and this year’s event, the 102nd regatta, was a spectacular success.
Glass-like water made the GP Hydroplanes, which can reach speeds of 250kph, put on a spectacular display. The weekends big winner was Lucas Oils, piloted by Waverley driver Ken Lupton who reigned supreme, winning all his races on Saturday and snatching victory in the AE Baker trophy race on Sunday by a slim margin.
Jack Lupton, driving his new 1400 hp GP 33 Hydroplane, won the first heat of the AE Baker but was pipped by his brother in the second heat.Huge crowds witnessed 10 clubman boats putting on a show in this entry level class and entertaining races in the Mod VP and Prostock and Grand National classes continued through of the day.
A lunchtime aerial routine by local pilot Mark Osullivan in has smoke trailing Yak 3 fighter plane provided yet another highlight in the smoothly run event. A very small group of volunteers with the help of some wonderful sponsors delivered a wonderful spectacle.
The event wasn’t without its drama - a powerful Grand National boat suffered a rudder failure, sending it off the lake and into the tamper’s car park! Thankfully, no one was hurt.
The Lake Rotoiti school parents had the best weekend ever in their catering which proves what a great community event this remains.
The Tasman PGG real estate team was proud to have naming rights to the GP Hydroplane qualifying races.
