Quincy Dowling and co-pilot Tai Bean were crowned overall winners of the St George’s Marine Expo Race in St George’s Harbour in the Bermuda Power Boat Association’s season opener at the weekend.

The pair, who compete in the B class, accumulated the most points during the two timed races on a triangular racecourse to finish ten points clear of nearest rivals David Selley, Shane Madeiros and Henry Talbot.

Selley and Madeiros finished tied for first in the A class while Talbot won the S class. Shawn Butterfield and co-pilot Jermal Woolridge were the only entry in the D class.

“Well done to the teams for a strong showing on the first day of races,” Robert Cardwell, the BPBA commodore, said.

“Clearly we had significant interest in-house,” he added. “Last season we averaged around six boats entering on each race day.

“Yesterday [Sunday] we had ten. This was awesome and the races have certainly drummed up some more following. I’m aware that others who were not there have stepped up their plans to get ready for the races we have planned.”

Racing in St George’s Harbour proved to be a hit among competitors and fans alike to the extent that the BPBA are now looking to stage more races in the East End.

“The BPBA members really enjoyed racing in St George’s Harbour in support of the St George’s Marine Expo event,” Cardwell said. “The races were quick laps given the relatively small course.

“We have received feedback from the S class boats who found it challenging to navigate the smaller course together with all the other participants when they were reaching speeds exceeding 100kph. Going forwards, we will have S Class race alone.

“We envision, given the success of the races in St George’s, that we will modify the racing plans slightly and we certainly look forward to planning to race in St George’s again.”

Racing resumes on Sunday with the Spanish Point Boat Club national race in the Great Sound.