Fancy some sprint drag racing by the sea?

OF ALL the weird motorsport events in these septic isles, the Brighton Speed Trial is perhaps the most incongrous. Based in probably the most hippy part of England (they elect a Green MP every election ffs), and on a quiet seaside access road, it’s nothing less than a full-beans, competition-licenced sprint race, with flat-out drag races (against the clock) on bikes and cars. 

Organised by the Brighton and Hove Motor Club, the event takes place on Madeira Drive, at the east end of the seafront in Brighton, and is a fantastic gig. Around two hundred cars and bikes take the timed run down Brighton seafront. “We’ve had a fantastic response already this year, with a diverse range of vehicles entering” said Len Wooller, chairman of the club. “Spectators will see a whole host of cars and bikes from the ultra-modern to the old classics.  Already lined up is a Lamborghini Countach, a Ferrari F40, Formula Ford single seaters and an Allard. We will also have a display of cars from Prestige Car Hire including a Lamborghini Haracan, Aston Martin Volante, a Ferrari 488 and a Porsche Turbo S.”

There’s always a great range of bikes too, from hillclimb and bespoke drag racers, with even dirt bikes and sportsbikes having a go. Fancy a go? All the entry forms, regulations and entry criteria are available now at www.brightonandhovemotorclub.co.uk.

Spectators can watch from the start-line right at the heart of the action, tickets are available on the day or via the website in advance saving 20 percent on the gate price. They can also follow competitors’ progress live from the start line then through to the finish line on the massive big display screen too. The event will have a dedicated wheelchair/disabled viewing area as well as a 70m raised viewing platform.

This year the Brighton Speed Trials is pleased to be supporting The Chestnut Tree House Hospice for young children who will be fundraising on the day and running a Scalextric competition.

Practice runs start at 8.45am on Saturday September 1, timed runs start at 11.15am, and entry (including a programme) costs £15 or £12 when purchased in advance online at www.brightonandhovemotorclub.co.uk.

Follow the event on Twitter at: @SaveBST

Check out the Brighton Speed Trials Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/132802935106/