Oxford University undergraduates are fund-raising to try to accept an invitation to participate in the Barbados Rally Carnival, from May 21st to July 3rd 2008.
Journalist Martin Sharp had seen the classic 1965 Riley 1.5 which the Oxford Universities Motorsport Foundation (OUMF) had restored and prepared for rally competitions and recommended that the organisers should invite the students to demonstrate their engineering skills at a world renowned event.
Jon Pulliston, OUMF’s top navigator, said: "In our short history, since 2005, we have already been invited to compete at motor races including the Goodwood Revival, Le Jog, and the Tour Britannia; to exhibit at world-class events such as Race Retro and the Goodwood Festival of Speed; and have won numerous local rally championships – all achieved in cars the students themselves have restored and prepared for competition."
The students are hoping to attract sponsorship and TV coverage for the car. David Nash, OUMF member and fundraiser, commented: "The foundation’s initiative is highly regarded and has been applauded throughout the motor-industry, enjoying wide support – but unfortunately not yet in financial terms. OUMF’s already debt-ridden students just do not have access to the £10,000 necessary at short notice for this amazing opportunity which will broaden their experience and capabilities enormously."
