Log In

Reset Password
BERMUDA | RSS PODCAST

Double joy for Selley twins

David Selley and co-pilot/owner Matthew Smith(Photo David Selley)

Twins David and Mark Selley added a new chapter to their family’s proud racing legacy during the Bermuda Power Boat Association’s season opener on the Great Sound on Sunday.

The siblings, whose father Mark Selley Sr and uncle Craig Selley were heavy hitters in their heyday, were among the day’s winners after securing early season bragging rights in contrasting fashion during the 45-minute race, hosted by the Spanish Point Boat Club.

David, the BPBA vice-commodore, had to come from behind to take the chequered flag in the A Class competing, with co-pilot Matthew Smith, on the latter’s 19ft Phantom.

Brother Mark encountered less resistance as he led from start to finish to claim the B-Class title, alongside co-pilot Jordan Fletcher in Richard Davidge’s 23ft Bat Boat.

“It was pretty cool and didn’t really soak in until later on,” an elated Mark Selley said. “[David] cleaned up and we did the same and so I was proud of him and his guys.

“It was wicked, and not all days go like that. It was definitely a good day.”

Mark’s brother was equally as thrilled to see his sibling emerge victorious.

“It was a great race and I was so excited because my brother really wanted to drive as bad as me,” David Selley said. “He was co-pilot for me last season but now he’s in the Bat Boat and off to a good start.

“The water conditions were fine, a little choppy on the Dockyard side, and Jodi Carreiro drove a hell of a race and gave us a hard time. We were down on power a little bit from the last time we had run the boat and I had my work cut out for me, so it was really tough competition.”

Shawn Butterfield and Henry Talbot were the day’s remaining winners.

Butterfield and co-pilot Alex Gibbs reigned supreme in the D Class with Henry Talbot and co-pilot Andrew Cottingham — the sole entry in their class — taking home the S-Class title.

Cottingham and Talbot, who reportedly reached speeds in excess of 101mph, have stepped up a class having dominated the D Class last season.

The pair have also reversed their roles in the cockpit with Talbot now at the wheel and Cottingham co-piloting.

The next race day is scheduled for June 3 at Ferry Reach.