MOTORSPORT: Newly crowned British open karting champion Nathan Freke gained a comfortable win at the weekend in the 125cc British Long Circuit Championships first round.

The Kidderminster ace hoped for a trouble-free run at the Pembrey venue, near Swansea, where he has had problems in the past.

Freke was among the fastest, lapping within a second of the record, at morning testing and remained quick in the wetter afternoon conditions despite minor handling problems.

A front-row start was earned by finishing third fastest in Sunday's timed qualifying session.

But a poor opening saw two rivals skip into the lead though Freke eventually ended up second after one kart broke down.

He was in second position for the next race which was to be decided on driving ability due to all karts having slick tyres in the rain.

Freke's superior driving skills moved him into the lead on the third lap which he held to guarantee pole for the final contest.

With the track dry, Freke suffered a power disadvantage and slipped back to second on the third lap.

Though behind by around 10 kart lengths, Freke saw the leader's engine blow on lap eight of 10, allowing him a comfortable victory and top spot in the championship.

Freke is to test the Century Motorsport Formula Ford 1600 at Anglesey at the weekend before the second round of the long circuit kart champions at Cadwell Park in two weeks.