Caroline Sandiford

Montesa. "As one of the UK trials importers I was asked to write a few words for this British world round programme. I think (and hope) that over the years I've finally been accepted as being able as a woman to have valid opinions on such a male dominated sport! So here goes...

"Last year's L+M Events inaugural British world trial was absolutely fantastic and without doubt this year's will be the same. Committed to the sport, L+M promoted, organised and staged what proved to be an event we all were proud to be associated with. They proved and consolidated the feelings of many that trials must (to survive) continue to grow with the needs and demands of the public.
"I've been involved in trials and the industry from my days as a mere 'girl' tagging along with my dad to Merthyr Tydfil to starting to be more involved in running the business by Houghton Tower to now sharing full responsibility with my brother Martin at this and last year's Hawkstone event and for 2006 celebrating James Sandiford Motorcycles' 50th year in business.
"Over the years Sandiford's has had to grow with the needs of the sport and the buying public, continually learning and adapting in order to support  the backbone of our business. Passed down from generation to generation within our family, that knowledge has assisted and enabled us to reach that milestone golden jubilee - something we certainly plan to celebrate later in the year!
"On the same basis trials in the UK with the right commitment and support can also grow as those that are involved with the sport from grass roots right though to the top flight learn as they progress.
"And we all (no matter what bike you ride) have to acknowledge and thank a certain Mr Douglas Lampkin for putting us right back on the world trials map. He reinstated the UK at the forefront of  world trials with his historic Houghton Tower win and he consolidated our position as 'the parent of trials' over subsequent years and, significantly, last year's win here at Hawkstone left more than a few people who love this sport with goosebumps...me included!
"As Montesa importer we've been fortunate enough to be involved with some greats of trials - Toni Gorgot, Marc Colomer, Malcolm Rathmell, Martin and Doug Lampkin to name just a few. Our Spanish friend (and  Montesa Cota 4RT development rider) Amos Bilbao on our request has committed his time to UK events over the last few years and enjoyed every minute of the same and he too will compete this weekend in Saturday's Masters event. Give him a wave...he loves the attention.
"Laia Sanz also returns to the UK. She gave quite a few guys a scare at this year's SSDT and a woman riding at world trials level is certainly a statement of progress. Her commitment can only be good for our sport - it again proves it's a sport attainable to all.
"This is a sport we all love, a sport which at top level this weekend has come home. Enjoy..."