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Raceboat International Today

MERCURY WIN ENVIRONMENTAL AWARD AS DUSSELDORF

UIM announce new Youth Training programme in Dusseldorf

David Sewell 27-Jan-12 17:47

 

Mercury made history with the 1997 debut of low-emissions engines at the 24 Hours of Rouen endurance race.

The company have now been awarded the 2011 Environmental Award for Economic Feasibility and Sustainability by the Union International Motonautique (UIM). The award nominations were announced January 21 during the UIM press conference at the Dusseldorf Boat Show. Mercury were one of four companies recognized for their proactive efforts in protecting the marine environment. Mercury Racing received a special mention for their development and production of low-emissions engines for the greening of outboard powerboat racing worldwide.

“Mercury customers, myself included, want to boat on clean water and in a healthy environment. Mercury Racing showcases our environmentally responsible technologies through powerboat racing and performance boating,” said Mercury Racing President, Fred Kiekhaefer.

Nico Bauduin, responsible for Mercury outboard sales in Europe and the Middle East, represented the company in Dusseldorf. “Mercury has worked hard over the past few years to bring industry leading emissions compliant technology to outboard powerboat racing. We’re proud of our racing heritage. We are equally excited to be working with the UIM in the development of low-emissions entry level classes for the next generation of racing champions.”

Nico was referring to the UIM’s new Youth Development Program.  The powerboat racing training program is designed to encourage youth, starting at the age of 10, to get involved in the sport of powerboat racing. The program features two classes; GT15 and GT30. Both feature a 12-1/2 foot vee-bottom hull powered by a low-emissions Mercury four stroke outboard. The GT30 boats are capable of reaching speeds up to 62 mph.

UIM president Dr. Raffaele Chiulli said, “There are lots of talented young drivers and we want to provide an opportunity for them to participate in the sport by sponsoring these boats. Also, safety took top priority when the boats were being built.”

The UIM plans to take the boats to various races and power boating events around the world for a multicultural exchange with children from every member nation of the UIM.