222 OFFSHORE CLAIMS UIM WORLD TITLE WITH REMARKABLE HAT-TRICK OF VICTORIES
The esteemed offshore powerboat racing duo, Darren Nicholson and Giovanni Carpitella, have clinched the prestigious ‘Sam Griffith Trophy’ as the UIM Class 1 World Powerboat Champions. Celebrating their remarkable achievement, the 222 Offshore team is determined to consolidate their success by aiming for a fourth triumph at the season finale in St. Petersburg from 1-3 September.
Their path to victory involved a superb hat-trick of wins in Sarasota, Michigan City, and the first race of the Mercury Racing Midwest Challenge in Sheboygan last weekend. This triumphant performance ultimately outpaced their strong contenders, Steve Curtis and Brit Lilly in Huski Ice Spritz, securing the championship title by finishing second in race 2 of Sheboygan.
Darren Nicholson, the first Australian to claim the Class 1 title, commended his Italian throttleman Carpitella and the team for their exceptional performance. Reflecting on his first Class 1 world title, Nicholson expressed his gratitude for the talented crew that made up for his initial inexperience in powerboat racing. “Our crew, including Muddy, Robbie, Ali, Marky, and Skye, played a pivotal role in our success. Muddy’s vast experience and Giovanni’s expertise were invaluable. I have become a better driver by closely listening to them,” Nicholson emphasized, attributing their triumph to the camaraderie and skill within the team.
Having previously won three sailing world championships and the XCat last year with Carpitella, Nicholson acknowledged the significance of their latest accomplishment. Carpitella, who possesses an impressive track record of powerboat titles, including multiple victories at various levels, expressed his joy at finally clinching this major championship. The duo aims to approach the upcoming St. Petersburg race with enthusiasm and determination, intending to race without stress and at their maximum speed.
The 2023 UIM Class 1 World Championship season has witnessed thrilling offshore powerboat racing, with Nicholson and Carpitella standing out as the exceptional competitors in a fiercely competitive field. Both running with the Mercury 1100 competition engine, their outstanding performances have added excitement to the series, which has experienced resounding success in the United States. The UIM Secretary General, Thomas Kurth, commended the continued growth of the UIM Class 1 World Championship and the revival it has experienced since its relaunch last year. Kurth also acknowledged the efforts of Azam Rangoonwala, CEO of Powerboat P1, as he attracts new boats and teams for the 2024 season, ensuring the championship’s return to the pinnacle of offshore powerboat racing.
As the newly crowned UIM Class 1 World Powerboat Champions, Nicholson and Carpitella have demonstrated their exceptional talent and determination throughout a thrilling championship campaign. With three different race winners, six teams, and four manufacturers on the podium, the UIM Class 1 World Championship continues to grow in popularity and excitement under the leadership of Powerboat P1.
