AFTER only limited racing in 2021, ex-multiple British Sidecar Champion Pete Founds has made a successful start in his assault on this year's campaign, writes Ste McNorton.

In the first round at Brands Hatch, Founds, who has moved to Northwich from Knutsford, and passenger Javan Walmsley blitzed the field with two wins from two races, making them look hot favourites to take a fifth title and have a great chance of TT glory in just under three weeks' time.

With new Honda power and backing from British Superbike Team FHO Racing, Founds headed to Donington Park for round two knowing he has always been fast there.

Jake Lowther came in to partner Founds as Walmsley was not available and they clocked the fastest time of the qualifying session to take pole position.

In race one saw Founds and Lowther led into the first corner but an early red flag held up proceedings.

When the race resumed Founds had a great battle with 2021 champions Lee Crawford and Scott Hardie, with the No1 bike squeezing past the Northwich rider on lap three.

This was a decisive moment in the race as they defended really well and kept the No72 bike behind them until the chequered flag.

 

Pete Founds and Jake Crowther, right, in the heat of battle with Lee Crawford and Scott Hardie. Picture: Ste McNorton

Pete Founds and Jake Crowther, right, in the heat of battle with Lee Crawford and Scott Hardie. Picture: Ste McNorton

Second place and 20 points was still a great result for Founds with another race to come the following day.

With a reverse grid for race two, Founds and Lowther lined up in seventh place and with slower riders in front, there was opportunity to make up places pretty quickly.

As the lights went out the two front runners from race one were soon battling it out, but as per race one1 the lads had to settle for second behind Crawford and Hardie, but did set a lap record in the process.

It is now a busy few weeks getting ready for the TT where they have a great chance of a good result.