AN HISTORIC motorcycling event makes its long-awaited return this weekend as the Colin Adams Motorparts Hurst Cup comes back to Whitespots Trial Park on April 26 and 27.
The event, hosted for the first time at the Clandeboye Estate since 1990, marks the 50th anniversary of the inaugural FIM World Championship Trial, held in 1975.
Organised by Moto Trial NI, the event brings together over 120 competitors from across the globe for two days of high-octane action and nostalgia. Notable names from the world of trials motorcycling are set to compete, including three-time world champion Yrjö Vesterinen, 10-time British champion Steve Saunders, French world number five Charles Coutard, and Northern Ireland’s own Harold and Robert Crawford.
Robert Crawford, who still holds the record for the youngest-ever world point scorer aged 16, made that mark at the Hurst Cup in 1988.
First run in 1924, the Hurst Cup boasts a rich heritage. Among its most legendary champions is Belfast’s Sammy Millar, who claimed the trophy 13 times, including an unmatched 12 consecutive wins between 1959 and 1968.
This year’s edition will feature several categories, with the premier Clubman class headlined by local talent Stephen Murphy of Conlig and current Ulster and Irish champion Stuart McClurg set to bring his Honda to the party. Other notable entries include Welshman Jim Hough, England’s Chris Garlick, Portrush’s Alex Lennox, the Hanlon brothers from Banbridge, Scott Callaghan, and Bangor’s Gareth Andrews.
In the Sportsman class, competition is equally fierce. Simon Scott leads the field as rider number one, with past competitors like George Robinson, John White, Terence McKee, and Paul Cantley returning to the fold. The field also includes race star David Lemon and English engineer Gerry Minshall.
The women’s field is proudly represented by former Irish team member Shelly Hanlon, alongside Courtney Stanex and Evie McStay who are all strong podium contenders.
This year’s event will feature several prestigious trophies, including:
- The Colin Adams Motorparts Cup (Premier Clubman overall winner)
- The 1924 Hurst Cup (Clubman Twin Shock)
- The Sammy Millar Cup (Pre-65 Clubman)
- The Alex Hegan Cup (Air-Cooled Mono Clubman)
- The Bryson Perry Cup (Top Sportsman)
Thanks to strong community and sponsor support – including Knock Motorcycle Club, Colin Adams Motorparts and Ards & North Down Borough Council – the event is free to attend. Spectators can park at the Somme Centre or use the free park-and-ride service from Tesco Castlebawn, with shuttle drop-off at the trade village.
A short walk leads to the main event area, with free programmes available via QR code on arrival.
Organisers are thrilled to bring back this iconic competition and invite all to enjoy a weekend of sport, heritage, and family-friendly excitement.
