The waters of Lake Coniston roared with excitement this week as Coniston Power Boat Week 2025 saw multiple world records shattered, cementing the event’s reputation as one of the most thrilling spectacles in the world of water speed.
Hundreds of spectators gathered along the lake’s edge to witness an extraordinary series of record-breaking runs by competitors from across the globe. The annual event, often referred to as the “spiritual home of British water speed”, lived up to its legacy with stunning displays of precision, engineering, and sheer courage.
Among the highlights was British racer Tony Statham, who piloted his custom-built hydroplane to an average speed of 191.8 mph (308.7 km/h), breaking the long-standing Unlimited Hydroplane class record. His performance drew cheers from the crowd and instant recognition from event officials.
“I’ve been coming to Coniston since I was a kid,” Statham said, moments after stepping off his boat. “To finally break a world record here — on these legendary waters — is a dream come true.”
Another standout performance came from Sarah Kendall, who set a new women’s world record in the Formula 2 class, clocking 144.3 mph (232.3 km/h). Kendall, visibly emotional, said, “This lake has history, and now a little piece of mine is part of it too.”
Event organizer Mark Wilkinson praised the competitors and the conditions, noting that the calm weather and glassy water provided the perfect setup for speed attempts. “We witnessed history today,” he said. “Coniston continues to be the ultimate proving ground for speed on water.”
The Power Boat Records Week tradition dates back to 1970, when it was first established to keep the spirit of legendary racer Donald Campbell alive after his tragic final run on the same lake. Over the decades, Coniston has hosted some of the most daring water speed records ever attempted.
As engines went silent and the sun set over the Cumbrian hills, one thing was clear — Coniston Power Boat Week 2025 will be remembered as a year when boundaries were broken and new legends were born.
