Young Trailblazer: Saibh Watkins Begins Sporting Car Trials at Just 10 Years Old

Photo by John Nolan

The Sporting Trials (mudplug) season which kicked off in mid-September with MEC’s Trial in Aughfarrell is well underway.   Among the competitors this season, one name stands out — Saibh Watkins, who aged 10 has just started competing in sporting car trials as a Junior Junior!  

After completing the competency test for drivers under 14, Saibh was presented with her Motorsport Licence and then set off with her brother Alex (14) and Dad Alan in the Watkins Yamaha which was built by her Grandad Alex Watkins and Grand Uncle Gordon Watkins, two former competitors and long serving Motorsport Ireland scrutineers. 

Sporting Car Trials are an exciting Motorsport Ireland discipline, where drivers navigate through six different sections, through a series of wooden gates, over a series of challenging, natural obstacles or up muddy hills.  The aim is to complete each section and get to the zero without stopping, getting stuck or hitting a gate, so it requires sharp driving skills and great car control.  Junior competitors are allowed to drive from the start at 10 up to the 5 marker. The season starts in September and runs until April, with events every two weeks.

Saibh, the ninth Watkins family member to compete in Sporting Car Trials, was excited compete in her first mudplug.  “I’ve always loved mudplugging and couldn’t wait to get started,” she said with a smile.

One of the unique aspects of Sporting Car Trials is that children can get involved in the action from a young age.   After passing a competency test, competitors as young as 10 years old are permitted to drive accompanied by a licenced adult driver, making this motorsport one of the few that truly opens its doors to young enthusiasts.   It’s an opportunity for children and teens to develop driving skills in a controlled, supportive environment, with parents or experienced drivers guiding them.

For Saibh Watkins, her first mudplug was a great success and she won the Junior Junior award at her second trial run by MEC in Tittour.   Though she may be new to the sport, her determination and passion is evident.   With ongoing coaching from her Dad, Saibh tackles the demanding courses with confidence, even though she is only 10 years old.

Motorsport events like this not only showcase the skill of drivers like Saibh but also highlight the inclusive and encouraging spirit of Sporting Car Trials.  Whether you’re competing, observing or cheering from the sidelines, it’s an experience that brings people of all ages together for a day of fun, excitement, and comradery.