Gold Coast Underwater Grand Prix celebrates annual scuba diving competition in Florida

Formula H2O is returning to Florida for the most thrilling submarine event of the year. The Wreck Racing League travelled to Pompano Beach this weekend for the unique scuba diving competition which began on Friday 29th July and announced a winner on the 31st.

On 2010, the Gold Coast Underwater Grand Prix received the highest racer attendance of the year, making it a hot spot for scuba divers worldwide. This event is a fantastic opportunity not only for racers, but for underwater-sport fans too.

The event kicked off with the Racer Meeting and an opening-night party on Friday, 29th July at the Wyndham Sea Garden. Here, all participants were able to join the Wreck Racing League for an overview of the rules and regulations of the event, as well as enjoy music and a sumptuous dinner buffet as part of the festivities. For those looking to enjoy dream scuba diving holidays as racers or as spectators, discounted accommodations at the Ocean Point Beach Resort in Pompano were available this weekend.

The following day, on Saturday 30th July the Wreck Racing League made it their mission to ensure the safety and success of all race participants by instructing a PADI DPV certification class. This certification was offered to all participants at the generous price of just $30 USD. Contestants scuba diving in Florida at the Copenhagen race site, had a practice race before the big day. This afternoon dive is of great importance to ensure a good warm-up for the competitors.

This dynamic and exciting event does not discriminate upon any basis; male or female contestants of all ages may participate in the category of scuba diving or snorkelling. Those who are interested in taking part in the race were able to do so by contacting South Florida Diving Headquarters by phone or e-mail.

On the 31st July, the Gold Coast Underwater Grand Prix began at exactly 8 o’ clock in the morning and winner Anthony Recine proudly took home the prize. Recine not only won the Expedition B division, but he did it racing five laps around a course on the wreck of the Copenhagen in just six minutes, 48.3 seconds.

"It just worked out perfect," said Recine excitedly, who had the weekend off from his job as a plumbing sales specialist with  in West Boca Raton. "I just wanted to be competitive. Winning was gravy."

A total of 27 racers competed in five divisions, based on the type of scooter, on a course set up by Jeff Torode of South Florida Diving Headquarters in 30 feet of water. Seas last weekend in Florida were calm and visibility was excellent, but a strong south current made for a challenging racing, adding a degree of difficulty to scuba divers.

The Formula H2O underwater racing circuit gives a head start to the most anticipated race of the year, and the biggest Wreck Racing League event. For all lovers of the underwater sport, the contest will be a delightful experience packed with adrenaline, excitement and extraordinary entertainment. The award ceremony will take place instantly after the race has concluded.