THE FUTURE OF BAFMA 

1. There has been much speculation about the future of BAFMA – we haven’t said much officially because we hadn’t finished with the fighting.

2. We have now lost our status as a training activity and will become an Army Recognised Sport.

3. If and when this happens (probably soon) the future will look like this.

4. Land Rover Events i.e. Navex

5. This will be the hardest hit – simply because Military Vehicles cant be used for sport.

6. Events will continue to be run but using privately (i.e. own) vehicles – 12 Car Road Navigation event, Treasure Hunts, Off Road Trials and any other 4 wheeled discipline which has sufficient support.

7. There is reason for great optimism here – we will be free of some of the restrictions previously placed upon us, we can welcome lots of new members and welcome back some old hands – in any case, we have a ready supply of experienced organisers and friends.

8. Rally Team

9. The Team Director has a cunning plan which if successful will enable the team to carry on much as at present using the existing vehicles transferred to civilian ownership.

10. Motorcycling

11. It has been recognised for a while that as the Army don’t use bikes, our time as a training activity was short. This has come to pass but we will continue as a sport.

a. Immediately, the Army Championships will continue – at Longmoor 4 Sept 10 – see website for entry details.

b. The Army entry in ISDE 10 is withdrawn on ground of cost.

c. There will be an Army Team in SSDT 11 with outside funding.

d. Army participation in British Enduro Championship, Welsh 2 Days etc shall continue as before under arrangements of Corps, teams and individuals.

e. There is no immediate prospect of Enduring Help running again.

12. Other Effects

13. The BAFMA Secretary post will go – no more Uncle Bob – he will be given the Heave Ho (a very big heave required) after 46 years service.

14. We hope to become a Recognised Sport quickly – this allows us to have access to a number of funding lines and travel funding to and from events.

15. For anyone taking part in any BAMA event, participation must be recorded on the participant’s Unit Part 1 Orders before the start of the activity.

16. The name of the new (sporting) organisation will be British Army Motorsports Association (BAMA)

17. The constitution will be written soon – I hope that the new organisation will follow the lead of RAFMSA whereby members retiring from the Service can become Associate members – fully eligible to take part in all activities – the committee will (I hope) be able to offer associate membership to selected civilian friends who have helped us run our activities - this will enable us to welcome back many old friends.

18. While I am massively disappointed and saddened to be the last ever BAFMA Secretary, I look forward to the future with optimism – we have a great team of leaders and helpers – Thanks for the journey, the memories and above all your friendship - onwards and upwards.

As Aye,

Bob.