Doubt Over New Racing Season at Suffolk Motor Boat Club

Saturday, 4 April 2026 06:00

Brett Duncan who was killed at a race event on Oulton Broad last summer. Image courtessy of the Circuit Powerboat Association

Organisers at the Lowestoft and Oulton Broad MotorBoat Club say they are unable to confirm whether the 2026 racing season will go ahead, despite ongoing efforts to secure approval.

In an update to members bia its website, the club’s directors and management said they had “gone above and beyond” to find a solution that would allow racing to return, but further work is still required.

The season would normally begin in early May, but with time running short, officials say they had to inform members so they can make alternative plans if needed.A key part of the process will be a planned on-water demonstration, which organisers hope will help reassure the relevant authorities. However, additional documentation and safety assessments are still needed before any racing can resume.

The club described the situation as “very sad”, stressing that every effort is being made to find a way forward and bring racing back to the Broad.

Last year there was a fatality during a race event, and return of powerboat racing to the Suffolk broad hangs in the balance following the death of a racer.

In July last year, Brett Duncan, aged 51, died in a high speed crash on Oulton Broad.

Meanwhile, members are being encouraged to continue supporting the club through memberships during what has been described as a critical period, as well as supporting other clubs across the UK circuit.

Further updates are expected once more information becomes available, with details of the club’s AGM and previous season presentation due to be announced soon.

The uncertainty raises concerns for a long-standing local sporting activity that has been a regular feature on Oulton Broad for many years.