Army Motorsports hold open day to attract new talent

The British Army Motorsports Association (BAMA) has held an open day with the aim of promoting Army Motorsports to young soldiers. 

The event, which was held at MOD Lyneham, had eight different motorsport disciplines on show including rallying, karting, sports cars and motorcycle enduro. 

The organisers hope that the open day will show young soldiers that getting involved in motorsport whilst serving is a viable option and that many will be encouraged to join one of BAMA's eight motorsports teams.

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Major Clive Allford, who was on the organising team, said: "Hopefully today will show them that there is motorsport within the British Army and it is really easy to get involved. 

"We have got a website where you can download the membership form and once you are a member, all of the disciplines are open to you."

One of the eight disciplines on show is the UK Armed Forces Rally Team, who recently finished off their season at the Trackrod Yorkshire Rally. 

The Team Director, retired Major Alan Paramore, says that "commitment and talent" is all that's needed. 

He said: "It is a completely democratic opportunity, if you've got talent and you've got a bit of commitment, you could find yourself driving one of these in the British Championships and if not, the World Rally Championships and that is a heck of an opportunity."

Established in 1960, BAMA has enjoyed over 50 years of motorsport participation.

One of the soldiers attending the event, Sapper Joseph Girvan, is hoping to have his opportunity to get behind the wheel. 

He said: "I have been wanting to get involved for a good while now and now is the opportunity to. I've seen this come up and you can't take an opportunity given to you for granted."