And glorious summer weather and perfect sea conditions made the event a spectacular success, said organisers Minehead Events Group and Minehead Coastal Communities Team, while competitors hailed it as the best event of the season so far.
More than 40 jet-ski riders from seven countries competed for UK and European titles, while inflatable Thundercat catamarans provides spectacular thrills and spills in two rounds of the current British championship.
A total of seven UK titles were up for grabs in the P1 AquaX jet-ski events - Minehead was hosting the final after previous heats in Torquay and Porthcawl.
“Race conditions were almost perfect, with a little rough water in the Bristol Channel to please some of the riders,” said officer of the day Danielle Strawford.
“It was the first visit to Minehead by P1 AquaX and it proved to be a hugely enjoyable and memorable weekend for our riders, official and crew.
“All our racers did an excellent job of driving to a very high standard and providing a grand spectacle for the spectators.
“The lovely beach, picturesque bay, the striking backdrop of North Hill and excellent facilities provided a superb arena for our racing.
“We hope to be invited back next year.”
The final of the jet-ski P1AquaX UK championship was won by four-times champion Phil Pope.
A total of 14 teams competed in Thundercats – four metre-long 70mph inflatable catamarans – and races had a Le Mans-type start, with teams running from the shore to their boats.
Local interest centred around Minehead’s former four times world champion James Tapp and co-driver Scott Brown who came first and second in the two rounds of the RYA Thundercat national championships.
Minehead Events Group chairman Andy Hadley said the success of the weekend was evident from the number of people who thronged The Esplanade to watch a great weekend’s racing: "All comments have been very positive.”
The final of the jet-ski P1AquaX UK championship was won by four-times champion Phil Pope.
A total of 14 teams competed in Thundercats – four metre-long 70mph inflatable catamarans – and races had a Le Mans-type start, with teams running from the shore to their boats.
Local interest centred around Minehead’s former four times world champion James Tapp and co-driver Scott Brown who came first and second in the two rounds of the RYA Thundercat national championships.
Lots of pictures and full report in tomorrow’s Free Press (August 10).