Initially attending the event to test their GTR F1 Boat, Lucas and his team witnessed remarkable improvements in their engine’s performance. This led them to make a bold decision to enter the fiercely contested Stannard Cup.

The race featured a competitive lineup of five formidable boats, including notable contenders such as Lay it Up (Tate Ramsey), Destiny (Blake Ramsey), and David Meades’ Bud Light tunnel boat. Each participant brought unique strengths to the competition, but it was Lucas who emerged victorious in the gripping 4-lap event, seizing the lead in the final lap to secure first place. Tate Ramsey and David Meades completed the podium, finishing second and third, respectively.

Reflecting on the victory, Lucas expressed his excitement and humility.

“To win was unexpected and we are humbled and excited to win this trophy because the names on it are some of Australia’s best,” he shared. He credited the support of Craig, Daniel, their families, and the broader boat racing community for their unwavering encouragement and contributions.

Despite challenging winds that canceled Sunday’s races, the weekend was a resounding success. Jake and Tayla also showcased promising performances in the 25hp Junior category, completing three races and earning their place on the podium.

Lucas extended his gratitude to the Glenmaggie Boat Club for their hospitality, the volunteers, and the interstate competitors who added to the spirited rivalry. “Go the outboards,” Lucas quipped, highlighting the competitive edge against the hydros and inboarders.

Looking ahead, Lucas and his team are eager to build on their triumph and return with their new F1 package.

“Australian champions sounds good, eh? Yep, we’re pretty chuffed,” Lucas concluded, with a wink.

With thanks to partners such as Allnex Resins Aust, Mercury Marine Australia & New Zealand, Riviera Boats, and more, the team looks forward to continuing their success in the exciting world of powerboat racing.

Congratulations to Sam Lucas and his team for a remarkable achievement!

A lot of good Social media content on the official site : www.facebook.com/afpgp

Following the dramatic and sensational third round at Rathmines, where six boats were involved in three different incidents, resulting in several craft sustaining heavy damage, the organisers are hopeful of an incident free event with close and competitive racing to captivate it the spectators.

Formula GP series leader Rhys Coles (Butler Vehicles) was one of those caught up in an incident at round three and has had to acquire a replacement D.A.C. hull from CC Grand Prix to compete this weekend hoping to keep his championship hopes alive.

Coles will be challenged hotly for the championship by Sam Lucas (RM Marine Jackson) and Simon Troy (888 Racing). Lucas also had to recover from a big incident at round three, whilst Troy is keen to add another Championship to his resume’ and has proven in past seasons he can find the performance to win when it counts.

Ewan Bricker (Team Bricker Racing) is one of just a few others capable of causing an upset this weekend. Bricker returns for the final round after disaster hit him while running with a strong chance of winning until gearboxes failed in the first two rounds.

Dean Allison (Allison Racing) is another returning after a round three incident and he along with Paul Sain (Trim King Racing), Kye Cornall (117 Motorsport) and Riley Whellam (Whellham Racing) will be all keen to challenge for podium positions.

At the other end of the power scale the Championship for the Junior J3 Class is still to be decided, however Adam Frankham (Quiver Jnr) has a commanding lead ahead of Blake Fowler (TBR Jnr), Blake Frankham (A Little Twisted), Tyler Gilliam (Epic 1), Ella Gilliam (Epic 2).

The program runs over both Saturday and Sunday with support events for Inboard Displacements, Formula V (V Hull), F3 & F4 and Vintage and Veteran boat runs.

Images supplied by Mike ‘Crash’ Cleary