A MARCH water-skier is all set to make a big splash in his first season as a competitive racer. Ashley Redhead, 22, from West End, March comes from a family passionate about the sport and has been water skiing since he was six years old. Since then, Redhe

A MARCH water-skier is all set to make a big splash in his first season as a competitive racer.Ashley Redhead, 22, from West End, March comes from a family passionate about the sport and has been water skiing since he was six years old.Since then, Redhead, who is hoping to train as a quantity surveyor, has spent a considerable amount of his free time on the water. He was selected for Loughborough University's slalom team but rejected the offer so that he could concentrate on training to become a water ski racer. Now, he is preparing for his first season on the national Formula Three (S Class) circuit and despite a lack of competitive experience, Redhead is positive about his chances.He said: "I have been working very hard in training and I feel that have an excellent chance of success."I am confident in my ability and fitness and I am aiming to be selected for the Great Britain team taking part in the European championships to be held in Galacia, Spain during August."Over the last two years, Redhead has competed in Hunstanton Club races and finished first overall in the 2004 Formula Three section.When not competing at club level, Redhead has spent his time building his fitness in the gym and training at Mepal pits and offshore at Hunstanton.His dedication and performances have impressed many fellow racers who are tipping him for a bright future in the sport.Redhead has joined the Phantom Power Boats team, based in Essex, which has donated the use of a 19ft race boat that can reach speeds in excess of 100mph.Redhead said: "Both the team and the boat have been involved at the top level, competing in last year's world championships in Hunstanton."It is a great honour for me to be involved with the team and I am extremely excited about the season ahead."He added: "I have received great support from my family and my girlfriend, Louise, who have spent a lot of time helping me achieve my goals."Hopefully, I will attract new sponsors who can help me compete during the season."During the course of the season, Redhead will be competing in Cardiff, Weston-super-Mare, Hunstanton, Brixham, Essex and Belgium, and he also hopes to take part in the Bridge to Bridge Race in Australia at the end of the year.Anyone interested in sponsoring Ashley Redhead can contact him on 07920 107004 or via e-mail at ash.redhead@hotmail.com