The Southern 100 has confirmed that Classic Sidecars will race at this July’s meeting, following the safety-led suspension of the modern sidecar category.
The initiative, approved by the Auto-Cycle Union (ACU), will run under established Pre-TT Classic technical regulations.
Organisers described the swift implementation as a “monumental team effort” with entries fully funded by a private benefactor.
Sidecar competitor Greg Lambert was instrumental in rallying the paddock and securing entry numbers to create a viable grid. Dr Paul King, Chairman of the ACU Road Race Commission, provided guidance on gaining governing body approval.
Clerk of the Course Giles Olley said: “To go from a blank sheet of paper to an excellent grid of Classic Sidecars in such a short space of time is a testament to the incredible spirit of the road racing community.
“We are deeply grateful to Greg Lambert for his tireless work on the ground with the drivers and passengers, and to Dr Paul King at the ACU for helping us clear the administrative hurdles so efficiently.
“This has been a monumental team effort. Thanks to them, our anonymous benefactor, and the teams who stepped up, the Southern 100 crowds will still get to enjoy the unique spectacle of sidecar racing at Billown this year.”
Competitors can find technical regulations and entry details on the official Southern 100 website. The updated race schedule will be published in due course.