by TREVOR THORPE

AN INTERACTIVE experience.

That's what is awaiting motorsport fans at SOL Motorsport Interactive, the official opening of the local motoring season at Bushy Park on March 11.

Organised by the Barbados Motoring Federation's (BMF), it
is their Technical Scrutineering and Family Day and is scheduled to start at noon.

Passenger rides in a range of rally cars and an off-road "safari" experience in four-wheel-drive vehicles are among the attractions planned, and to make this ground-breaking event live up to its name, BMF member clubs are working together to create as many "interactive" experiences as possible.

Fans will be offered a rare chance to ride alongside some of their heroes, bred from the success of last year's SOL Motorsport Goes Live.

The day-long event will be further enhanced by product displays from some of the island's leading motor dealerships, while food stalls "on the hill" will enhance what is also seen by the organisers as a "family day".

It will also be the first day of the Barbados Auto Racing League's season.

Once scrutineered, these cars will join a static display of classic cars, organised by members of the Barbados Association of Classic Car, which is affiliated to BMF member club, the Barbados Automobile Association.

SOL executive director Stewart Gill himself a former competitor, said: "We were really encouraged by our involvement last year, which coincided with the launch of our new company. Since then, we have made great strides in the region.

"While that event provided an opportunity for SOL to demonstrate its commitment to motor sport and technical innovation, we were also keen to expand its scope to offer greater value for the spectator."

Co-ordinator and BMF secretary-general John Sealy said he was looking forward to the March event, and was delighted that SOL had confirmed its commitment to the event for a second year, and also that discussions about the content of the day were going to result in an even more exciting experience for patrons.

"At our first planning meeting, the basic outline and timetable for the event was decided, then each of the organising clubs went away to concentrate on delivering on its commitment.

"We are shortly to have our second round table meeting, after which we will be able to discuss the event in more detail," Sealy said.