MOTORSPORT: Triple national karting racing winner Nathan Freke won the last 125 gearbox meet before the British Championship in two weeks at the Shenington raceway, near Banbury.
Freke is unable to compete in the championship but impressed against the main contenders from both 125 classes at the weekend.
He was only able to clock a competitive time in the final session of Saturday's testing due to mechanical problems.
A good start from grid 13 for heat one was wiped out when Freke was tapped from behind as he passed a slower kart, knocking him onto the infield.
With determined driving, the Kidderminster teenager kept the momentum going to finish fifth.
Another fine opening from grid 18 in the second heat was spoiled by contact and a trip onto the grass but Freke caught the pack to end up fifth again.
He was left needing a victory in the third heat to gain pole position in the A final which he achieved by a comfortable margin.
With two British champions nearby, he did not relinquish pole position in the final after a strong start helped him lead for the whole race.
Due to an administrative error by the sport's governing body, Freke cannot contest the short circuit British Championship.
But he has the satisfaction of knowing he has beaten all the main contenders.
Freke heads for testing before his first long circuit championship round at Pembrey, Wales, on May 4 and 5.
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