Motorsport: Top class action from Mondello Park

Mondello Park hosts its most prestigious fixture since its re-development.

The British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) makes its first ever appearance at the County Kildare circuit that now looks very impressive following a £2 million investment.

Irish fans will be treated to top class action from the works teams - Vauxhall and Peugeot, who will be joined by other makes like Alfa Romeo, Lexus, Honda, Ford, Renault and Mitsubishi.

Today's programme begins with qualifying for the fifth round of the Irish Formula Ford Zetec Championship currently led by Cork's, Alan Dwyer. Free practice for the British Touring Cars follows until lunchtime

The all-conquering Vauxhall Astras of Jason Plato and Yvan Muller are expected to thrill the crowds during tomorrow's Sprint Race (1. 30 p.m.) The 30-lap race, which includes a mandatory pit stop, is scheduled for 3. 15 p.m.

In between, the Lotus Championship race and the RT 2000 action should provide plenty of excitement.

The final action is in the Formula Ford Zetecs.

As Mondello Park continue to upgrade all facilities, spectators can also visit the new Mondello Motorsport Museum.

On view is a collection of ex-Formula 1 cars, Le Mans Sports Cars, NASCAR Stock Cars, single seater racers and classic cars.

Tynagh, near Portumna County Galway, is the venue for tomorrow's fourth round of the Irish Karting Championships.

Mark Smith, John Ed McCarthy, Brian O'Mahony and Joseph McGonigle contest the 100 National class. Qualifying from 10. 00. a.m.

Doubling as a round of the MaxSport Munster Autocross and the Darby O'Gill's Killarney Championship, the Killarney Autocross tomorrow at Cronin's Pit (formerly Doyle's Pit) Killarney has a noon start.

Munster Championship leader, Gerard Lucey (Special) is amongst the entry that also includes Richard and Gordon Percy.