Chatham powerboat racer George Elmore began the defence of his British F4 title with second place overall as the British National Championship season began in Lowestoft.

Conditions across the weekend were blustery - far from ideal - but Kingfisher Powerboat Racing Team’s Elmore, 20, posted some strong qualifying lap times before the weather caught him out and he collided with a turn buoy.

Starting the opening heat from the back of the grid as a result, Elmore was on a mission when the action began and he fought his way through the field to finish second.

He maintained this position across the remaining three race heats, earning second overall, and left Suffolk in a positive mood.

“We were unlucky in qualifying, although I managed to claw it back and secure overall second place,” Elmore said.

“This result gives us a decent start as we now go back to testing to look for the extra speed we need before the next round of the championship in just a few weeks’ time.”

Ian Blacker, taking part in the F2 openers for Kingfisher, took pole position and had a good battle with Maidstone’s Colin Jelf, winning one race but losing out in two more for second overall once again.

Blacker said: “We’re really pleased with the results and the team’s performance. Pole position in F2 and second overall, plus George securing P2 in F4 - it’s a great start to the 2025 racing season for the Kingfisher Team.”

The next round of the championship takes place at Carr Mill Dam in Lancashire from May 31.