The meet is traditionally a shakedown event, as 30 or so competitors get their bikes and cars ready for the first hill climb on Easter Monday.
However if the conditions are right, then expect to see a few records go later in the day as machinery beds in and competitors get more confident after the winter break.
The sprint includes a ‘Run-What-U-Brung’ class once again, for motorbike riders who fancy a chance of trying motorsport on the day.
Likely fastest car will be Andrew Allenet in his three-litre Rault, as he bids to get close to or better Jason Mourant’s outright record of 9.41 seconds achieved in 2016.
Similarly the ever-quick Kevin Rault in his Escort Rally car. He will be looking to beat the rally car record set by Dave Oliveira in 2015.
Rault will also be keeping a weather eye on his son, Kayen, out in the 85 cc bike class .
Paul Traylen goes in the 500 cc class on a Yamaha RD 500 and will no doubt test Malcolm Gallichan’s 1990 record time of 11.38 seconds.
Michael Balston is also back in his Porsche Turbo hoping to capture Tony Olson’s record of 12.1 seconds. Balston had a very quick best time of 12.3 last time so if conditions are right, who knows.
Richard Wilson will be behind the wheel of his Paul’s Tyres Caterham looking to break Vince Lees-Baker’s record of 12.73 seconds. Wilson’s best time to date is a 12.94s so again there is the chance of a new record here.
Wilson will also be pushed hard by fellow-Caterham driver Richard Buchanan.
Paul Machon is the only competitor to run two entries and so will have a busy day keeping his Seely G50 and Aermacchi Ala D’Oro running as well as he seeks to lower his own record time.
The ‘Run-What-U-Brung’ class is open to non-members – basically anyone who owns a road-registered bike over 125 cc and has the appropriate Jersey driving licence to ride (full or provisional).
Do not worry if you are not sure what to do as club members will be on hand both beforehand and on the day to help you through the few formalities.
So if you have ever wanted to have a go at motorsport now is your chance.
Anyone wishing to have a go should check the club website and ensure they bring along the correct documents and safety equipment when report to La Braye Car Park by 8.45 am, at the latest, to sign on.
Racing starts at 10.30 for what should prove to be a bumper day of motorsport. Spectators are welcome and the event if free to watch.
