The entry level motor racing after the war was for motorcycle-engined 500cc Formula 3 cars and this 8 lap race is a celebration of the period between 1948 and 1959 when these cars were current. Many famous drivers started their careers in this formula and it was the Coopers that became the dominant marque when powered by Norton. The best known Norton engine exponent was Francis Beart of Kingston who was already a legend amongst the TT riders. Other aspiring manufactures represented at this meeting are Keift, JBS, Bond, Emeryson, Martin, Trenberth, FMS, Petty, Effyh, Dastle and Swebe.