Mathieu Lemelin moving to 2.5 Liter
December 9, 2011 
4 Comments
Mathieu Lemelin, the 2011 double champion (CBF & ACHA) of the 1.5 Liter class attacks a new challenge for 2012 when he will make his debut in the 2.5L Stock Class. Mathieu has partnered with the Valleyfield Regatta in obtaining the boat which was campaigned by Al Grabinski Jr. and driven by John Shaw in the last season (S-816 Go’N 4 Broke). Note that this hull was built by Bert Henderson in 2005 and was driven by Jonathan Abbott who won two 1.5L championships with it back in 2008 and 2010.
For several weeks Lemelin has debated coming back to 1.5L and defending his title, switching to a bigger class as an independent, or preferably a partnership with the Valleyfield Regatta. When the opportunity to take possession of the S-816 was presented Lemelin could not pass on it.
However, prior to graduating to the 2.5L class, Mathieu Lemelin had to find a buyer for the 1.5L winning hull. After various negotiations, Mathieu has reached an agreement with Jean-Guy Leboeuf and his son Mikael will start driving the CT-155 at Long Sault in June.
For Mathieu Lemelin, the transition to the 2.5L stock class will be quite a challenge because of the large number of boats in the class (28). “Obviously, the next season will be a transitional one. I will have to get used to driving with a front wing and the more powerful engine,” said Lemelin. “I would like to be able to make as many finals as possible this year.”
This is a new hull for the CS-7 Soresto racing team and Lemelin is very satisfied with the condition of the hull which he’s been given. “Thank you to John Shaw’s team who gave me a boat in such good shape. I will be able to concentrate more on looking for sponsors. In fact, only the paint job will have to be re-done.”
Questioned about this topic, Michel Poirier, General Director of Les Régates de Valleyfield is very pleased that Lemelin is the new driver of the Henderson hull. “Les Régates de Valleyfield is pleased to offer Lemelin the opportunity to move up to the 2.5L class. We are sure that Lemelin and his team will be competitive as they were in the 1.5L. We are also convinced that Lemelin will keep up his good work as an ambassador for hydroplane racing.”
Mathieu, best of luck in your move to 2.5 liter stock. It will be hard at first but you’ve got the talent. Just think in a couple of years at the rate your going you’ll be up there running with Bert in the GP class!!!!!!!
Thanks huey, for sure in couple of year i want to try it! Presently i realize a big dream for me! Only to race with all drivers i follow at all race when im a kids its amazing what that can do to me! I’m very happy to grow 2,5l!!!
Congratulations Mathieu. Look forward to seeing you on the race coarse with us in 2012. Your team did excellent in 1.5 class & I am sure you will adapt quickly to the 2.5 class. Good luck & Merry Christmas Mathieu!!
Thanks glen, im very so exxcited to moving 2,5l my team work hard to do a great job and im sure we gone be ready to attack the water in longsaul! Happy christmas to you too and all the familly!!!