Ernie Mello has been appointed Commodore of Bermuda Power Boat Association (BPBA).The veteran power boat driver has taken over leadership of the association from Paul Wellman who was forced to resign five months prior to the end of his term due to health reasons.“We had an emergency AGM two weeks after the Around the Island (Race) which was basically dealt with on a committee level,” Mello explained. “He (Wellman) relinquished the fleet to me due to medical reasons and I went from being acting Vice-Commodore to acting Commodore so I didn’t have to run.“It was just a transfer and this is the first time I’ve actually been full Commodore. I’ve served as interim Commodore twice and then the Commodores came back.”I accepted the appointment based on the need and the qualifications needed at the time.”Retired Marine and Ports ferry pilot Wellman was diagnosed with Lupus in the 1990s.He was elected as BPBA president in December, 2011 after running unopposed for the top post.During his racing career Wellman managed three podium finishes in the ‘C’ Class in the Around the Island Race before hanging up his racing gear in the late 1980s.Mello, 52, will serve as Commodore until the association’s next AGM slated for January, 2014.“I’m going to serve my time until January when the complete committee has to step down at the AGM,” he said.Asked whether he would seek re-election, the former national champion replied: “I’m going to move into a different situation. I’ve put in a proposal already which has not been confirmed to the association.”This Sunday will see the BPBA stage the 2013 National Grand Prix in the Great Sound (off Spanish Point Boat Club) which is the brainchild of former association Commodore Wellman.“This is Paul’s baby and it’s actually sad he’s not going to be able to finish his term with the race he created,” added Mello. “It’s actually a shame.”Jody Correia has replaced Mello as BPBA’s Vice Commodore.