Date Added: 2008-05-24

The Honda Formula 4-Stroke Championship series opened at Torquay today to a mixed reception. Now the world's leading one-design powerboat class, the 40 odd competitors, split between 150 and 225hp, faced a series of heats rather than a single race for each class.

The aim is an attempt to control the number of craft on the course at any one time so giving more space and reduce the chance of accidents. The format tended to confuse but the organisers are confident it will be accepted by the second round taking place off Plymouth in three weeks time.

The early heats yesterday saw Drainstore.com driven by Jak Cockman and Andy Phipps lead the 150hp class with Mark Cockman and Adam Ford aboard Buildbase head the 225hp fleet.