Chatham’s George Elmore is aiming for a podium place at this weekend’s GT30 European Powerboat Championships.

The 18-year-old Jelf Racing Team driver heads with his team to Lake Viverone in northern Italy.

Twenty competitors from eight different nations will compete in the championship, qualifying for pole position and then over four heats, with three heats to count to decide who will claim the European Crown.

Elmore will compete in his first international competition in the GT30 class but despite the high calibre of racers entered the 2022 British GT30 sprint champion is confident going into the weekend and is hoping to secure his first European podium finish.

He said: “There’s a lot of talent but I’m confident the boat has been performing well and I feel comfortable in how it’s been handling.

“I need to focus on a strong qualifying position and fight for my position in the heats.

“I’d like to thank my team and sponsors that will embark on the journey with me and hope I can do them proud and fly the flag for Team GB!”