The morning began with steady rain, keeping boats and crews on standby as they awaited safer conditions. By 11 AM, the skies cleared, setting the stage for an exciting day of racing. With testing completed, the focus shifted to the qualifying hot laps—a critical moment for drivers aiming to secure strong positions for the weekend.
At noon, the Lucas Oil qualifying sessions began, and the competition quickly heated up. David Alexander in Miss Waverley claimed the fastest time with an impressive lap of 33.12 seconds. Equal second-place qualifiers, Scott Coker driving Howzat and Jason Haggerty piloting Lady Liz, clocked in at 34.50 seconds, setting the tone for a closely contested series.
Fourth-fastest honours went to Jack Lupton in GP57 with a time of 36.18 seconds, followed closely by Ken Lupton in Lucas Oil at 36.28 seconds. These results showcase the intense competition among the top drivers, each vying for dominance in their respective classes.
The day’s events underscored both the challenges and thrills of powerboat racing. Weather disruptions early in the day tested the resilience of the teams, while the hot laps highlighted the skill and precision of New Zealand’s top drivers. As the series unfolds, all eyes are on Mangakino, not just for its breathtaking lakeside vistas but also for the high-octane action promised in the coming rounds.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a newcomer to the sport, this weekend’s Hydro Thunder NZ Series is shaping up to be unmissable. Stay tuned for more updates and join the excitement as the competition continues to build.
