Tidelines: Winged speedster

By ROBIN BAILEY

This is Viper, the latest go-fast watercraft to test the market. British designed and built, the 4.3m (14ft) two-seater winged powerboat combines aircraft aerodynamics and Formula One racecar styling. It is powered by a 175hp Mercury XR2, which drives the water jet propulsion system, that gives the de-tuned Viper a top speed of 48 knots rising to 65 knots in racing trim. Designer Mike Tucker has developed a rally-style race concept for the class that has Royal Yachting Association approval. The RYA govern powerboat racing in Britain as well as yachting. For more info check www.viperjetboats.com

Excellence award

Richard Downs-Honey, managing director of the marine composites company High Modulus, has been recognised by the Institution of Professional Engineers New Zealand (IPENZ). He has received the manufacturing and mechanical category of the 2004 IPENZ supreme technical awards. Downs-Honey is a pioneer in the field of marine composites.

Water-watch

The New Zealand Offshore Powerboat Championship series continues today. The race starts at the Maraetai Boat Club at 2pm with an expected fleet of 20 and includes two legs down to Eastern Beach. Other activity:

Saturday: City of Sails regatta (Kohimarama YC); Gulf race series (Weiti BC); Cruising race to Little Manly (RAYC); Summer cruising (Richmond YC).

Saturday and Sunday: Cruising Weekend (BBYC); Mistral, Townson and Laser masters championships (Tamaki YC); Small keelboat autumn championships (RAYC); Young 88 nationals (RNZYS).

Sunday: Vintage and veterans regatta, including classics (Ponsonby CC); Flying 15s Nustrini Trophy (RAYC).

* Clubs and organisations planning events in or on the Waitemata or Manukau harbours should register well in advance with the Auckland Regional Council Customer Service Centre on (09) 366 2000. The 24-hour response number for the ARC maritime unit is (09) 362 0397.