The wait is almost over.

Following three years in the wilderness after being thrown out of their home at the US Naval Annex in Southampton when it closed, Bermuda Karting Club are back, and raring to go at a new site.

Well, nearly.

The first race day, scheduled orginally for this Sunday, has been put back two weeks to allow for basic repairs to vehicles that haven't been revved in anger since 1994.

The club, which existed for 25 years before being forced to look for an alternative race site, has signed a temporary agreement with the Bermuda Land Development Company to use a track just off No.2 Gate at Kindley Field in St David's until the spring.

Vicki Robinson, secretary of the club, said: "The track is a little smaller than what we had at Southampton and some of our members with bigger karts would have liked something larger to make it more exciting, but it's a great location and we're very happy.'' The agreement will at least give them breathing space and a chance to re-estalish the club while the search for a permanent home goes on.

Added Robinson: "We're not sure where we'll go after April but people have been talking positively and we've just got our fingers crossed something will come up.

"I haven't heard, but I think we're in the master plan for the St David's area.'' Races in a series of classes ranging from juniors in 80cc karts, 100cc open events, Yamaha and 125cc shifters, will be staged on alternate Sundays, starting on November 23.

It's anticipated there will be between ten and 14 competitors in each race, but the format has not yet been determined.

"It hasn't quite been decided whether it will be x number of laps or time-based,'' said Robinson.

Club members range in age from ten to 60 and enquiries from prospective members are welcome. Basic karts can be bought for $3,000 but are not available on the Island. However, the club will happily give advice on suppliers in the US.

They are also on the lookout for an experienced announcer/commentator, although a teenager with an interest in the sport would be considered.

Racing starts at noon, with admission $3 for adults and free for those under ten.