World Class Racer Here

By 250 News

Former world champion jet-boat racer Neil Ross visited Prince George to test out our rivers after competing in the Great Canadian 2007 World Championship Jet-Boat Marathon last week. Ross traveled from New Zealand with his custom jet-boat to compete in the marathon, which is held annually in northwestern Alberta. Consisting of eight days of circuit and course racing, the marathon was roughly 1000 km in length, and was a grueling event for both man and machine. "To finish first," says Ross, "You must first finish."

Ross, who placed third in the "A" class and fifth overall, was one of five competitors to finish without penalties, out of a total of 53 boats. Ross, part of Team KeelowCraft, was accompanied by his navigator Toni Chittock, who has worked with Ross since 1991.

Ross’ boat, a KeelowCraft Race Challenger 630, is powered by a 690 horsepower, 458 cubic inch Chevrolet small block engine, and can reach top speeds well over 170 km/h.

Although prizes were awarded to top racers, Ross stresses that the sport is mainly about the thrill of competition, adding that in New Zealand there are no prizes for winning. Nonetheless, three of the top five racers in the marathon are from New Zealand.

KeelowCraft’s website, www.jetboat.com, features more information on Ross’ jet-boat.

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