Youth and Sport.

And Minister the Hon. Pamela Gordon is calling on the young people involved in the `ranging races' (on push bikes) to contact her.

The youngsters were involved in the latest race on Parsons Road and Dutton Avenue, close to Bernard Park, on Sunday.

But over the past couple of years they have used a number of hills on roads around the Island.

The idea is that they get to the top of the hill, pedal to a certain point, and then `range' or coast to a finish line or until they stop.

The fastest and furthest is the winner and it takes a fair amount of skill to reach any great distances. The youngsters tend to bend low over their handlebars to cut down wind resistance and to add to their forward momentum.

Contestants range in ages and size and numbers of racers can reach up to 20 at a time.

The winner receives a `bracelet' called the Honeycomb which he will keep until the next race is run.

Races are usually organised by word-of-mouth or by students at schools. The `range' racers converge on an event from all over the Island.

But the races have been going on without the knowledge of the Ministry of Youth and Sport.

Ms Gordon said: "I am not aware of these races taking place but it sounds wonderful. It sounds like a very positive, organised idea.

"I would like whoever is responsible for organising these races to contact me to discuss them.

"If it is going to keep young people out of trouble then it is a good thing.'' HOME ON THE RANGE -- Youngsters `range-racing' on Parsons Road in Pembroke.