EVENT organisers are pushing the boat out for thousands of spectators who will gather in Greenock next weekend for a high octane event on the Clyde.

The Esplanade will be transformed by the P1 SuperStock UK Championship and first ever P1 Scottish Grand Prix of the Sea on June 18 and 19.

Ahead of the action, powerboat bosses have finalised the race schedule.

P1 chief operating officer Robert Wicks said: “The announcement of the P1 Scottish Grand Prix of the Sea race schedule marks the latest exciting step towards event weekend and what promises to be a spectacular two days of action on and off the water for locals and visitors alike.

“The really good news for people across Greenock and Inverclyde is that it’s all free — so all you need to do is turn up and enjoy all the fast and furious action on the water and well as loads of fun and games for all the family on land. 

“Included in this, in conjunction with our supportive partners, is a special Inverclyde Showcase which will see exhibition stands and marquees showing off the best of the area’s tourism-related businesses.”

The first action on the water takes place at 10am on Saturday June 18, with more than 15 different races and other activities on show that day. 

Spectators can also soak up the action the following day from 10.30am, with the final race of the weekend due to finish around 3.30pm. 

Lifelong local boating enthusiasts Dino Zavaroni and his friend Gordon Wicklow will fly the flag for Inverclyde when they race in the specially-branded 28ft P1 Panther race boat worth £65,000.

In addition, the event, which is being co-hosted by Riverside Inverclyde and Inverclyde Council, will also feature eight spectacular displays by Hydroflight and Freestyle jet skis.

P1 supremo Mr Wicks added: “We’ve experienced a hugely positive reaction in the region so far, from local people and from the business community, and we’re all counting down the days to what should be an amazing weekend. 

“We can’t wait for the action to begin and see and hear the buzz of a huge Greenock and Inverclyde crowd enjoying some truly spectacular action.”