KARTING: GREAT Sutton's Dave Keech produced a virtuoso performance to secure second place in the ARDS Open Grand Prix on Saturday.

The 53-year-old received the runners-up trophy after just missing out on the top spot following a shoot-out with 15-year-old prospect Matt Griffin in the A Final.

Keech had been in fine form at the recent timed practices at the Rednal circuit and he had been hoping for a repeat display at the first event of the 2006 season at Three Sisters.

Keech said: 'It was a great race and all credit to Matt. He's only young but he's already a fine racer and will only get better.

'I'm pleased with second spot and I'm looking forward to more battles with Matt in the future.'

In good conditions Keech had started the day in style after making a late surge from ninth on the grid to secure the first win of the heats.

But Covkartsport Junior Champion Griffin was in impressive form and produced some skilled driving to set up the A Final showdown with Keech, after both drivers won their final qualifying heats.

Griffin took pole position ahead of Keech and the youngster stormed into a comfortable lead.

Despite a late challenge from the Great Sutton ace at the Lunar bend, he held on to win by 1.08s.