Jess Murdoch made history at the opening round of the 2013 Pembrokeshire Karting Championship by becoming the first female driver to race in the competition. Championship Co-ordinator Royston Badham enthused: "We're thrilled to finally have a female driver in the Pembrokeshire Karting Championship. By producing a series of good results in her races and beating several of the males, Jess has demonstrated that this Championship truly gives everyone an equal chance of success." Jess is 27th in the Main Standings, 17th in the Rookie Standings and her fastest lap is just 1.4 seconds shy of the quickest time of the event.

A record turnout of 35 drivers took part in Sunday's opening round of the 2013 Pembrokeshire Karting Championship. Spectators were treated to an incredible 23 races over a 5 hour duration.

Multiple challenges awaited each driver, including the cold temperatures and the decreasing lighting levels. With everyone ready to race, the flag dropped and the new season raced out of the starting grid.

The racing was as close as it's ever been with a mixture of fresh faces taking it to the experienced racers but as the evening began to take firm hold, it was Joshua Partis who overcame a troublesome final showdown to claim first blood. He was closely followed by a returning Kieran Davies, keen to launch a fresh championship campaign. Double Pembrokeshire Karting Champion Sam Joseph kept both drivers honest as he relentlessly tried to find a way past, but ran out of time and claimed third. 

Richard Cowl finished fourth ahead of a resurgent Jason Cole, who returns to the Pembrokeshire Karting Championship to claim his second title. Newcomer Liam Hunter kept a low profile in the paddock but made his presence felt on the track as he earned his spot in the final and finished sixth. Richard Francis was eager to demonstrate his ability to the spectators and whilst narrowly missing out on victories earlier in the day, he proved his talent by making it to the final and finishing seventh. Luke Rowland claimed the final position of the final after producing a string of strong results in his previous races.

With such an action packed start to the season, Round 2 cannot be missed. Taking place Sunday May 26th, anyone aged 16 or over can take part. For more details please visit www.pembrokeshirekarting.co.uk

Click here for full results and standings