Aaron Ciantar, the two-times world powerboat champion, took time out from his preparation for November’s Superboat International World Championship in Key West, Florida to attend the UIM Ocean Grand Prix of Siracusa with his father, Charlie. The Maltese boat builders were in town to see the championship in action with one eye on a possible entry in 2012.
“It is very good to see that the World Endurance Championship is still alive although being here and not racing is difficult for me,” explained Aaron Ciantar.
Ciantar will continue his successful partnership with Ukrainian, Victor Shemchuk, the duo tasting glory in 2009, winning the SuperSport Class with their first P1 Championship challenge, ‘Seagull Chaudron’, a 13-metre boat with twin 525hp inboard engines. In season 2010, Shemchuk ordered another Chaudron-built 13-metre powerboat however this time having twin inboard 750hp engines and competing in the Evolution Class. The Ukrainian Spirit will now venture beyond the Mediterranean to race in America.
“It was not possible to race in Europe this season but I would love to be back in 2012. Our priority now is to perform well in Key West, then we can explore all possibilities for next season. As a pilot and boat builder it is very important that the OGP organisers publish a strong calendar for 2012 so that we can present a compelling case to potential sponsors.”
