Vermeulen flies the Batboat home

JACQUES VERMEULEN'S Batboat 23 scored a fine double in the waters of the Little Russel and around Herm.

Six boats spread over two classes (2 Litre & 2-4 Litre) came to the start line and a pre-race boost came with the news that for the first time in 11 years the Herm Island Powerboat Challenge Trophy - last won in 1998 Paul Mahy - was up for grabs.

Spectators were treated to a perfect first race and every competitor put everything into getting around the course, but, as it is in the high octane sport, some of the boats had to retire.

Vermeulen (pictured), a relative newcomer, topped the podium at the end of the first 11-lap race, posting a time of 54.29 to lay claim to the day's silverware and his first competitive victory in the sport.

Sark competitor Hugh Donnelly stormed to second place in his Ring 17 with a time of 55.25, while Liquid Illusion driver Kevin Walsh took third spot in his Backdraft 22 with his time of 56.03.

After the sea foam had settled the organisers and race teams took to Herm Island for the presentation where Vermeulen, grinning like a cheshire cat, was presented with the Herm Trophy.