Jersey International Motoring Festival launches 50cc Challenge

The Jersey International Motoring Festival will feature a 50cc race for the first time in 2020.

The 50cc Challenge will see competitors complete a timed sprint over a distance of a quarter of a mile along Victoria Avenue.

Any competitor can take part but they must enter the Jersey International Festival of Motoring. Each machine will be examined to make sure it is safe and that the engine is no more than 50 cubic centimetres in capacity.

Organisers hope the event will become a regular fixture on the festival's annual programme of events.

In the post-war years, with people unable to afford an expensive motorcycle, they often spent their money tuning mopeds. Some could produce as many as 12 Horse powers and travel at speeds of up to 100mph.

Joe Castellino from Le Riche Automobile Restorers, who help to stage the event, says it is a throwback to a bygone era of racing.

Will Dawson from Islands Insurance Private Clients, who sponsor the event, says the company was delighted to be able to stage the challenge.

This year's event takes place on the first weekend in June.