THE Welsh Open Speedway Sidecar Championship, scheduled for yesterday at Newport's Hayley Stadium, was postponed because of a waterlogged track.

The meeting has been rescheduled for October - but no date has been set.

Tim Stone, Newport promoter, said: "We had persistent rain overnight and the organisers decided to postpone the meeting rather than being forced to abandon it because of conditions being too difficult for the crews."

However, the miserable weather conditions did not prevent Newport's open day from going ahead, although they were forced to take cover.

Stone explained: "We had a few hundred people come down. They were not put off by the drizzle and we moved everything, including a bouncy castle, under the grandstand."

Riders Glenn Cunningham, Scott Smith and Chris Neath along with Mavericks Tom Brown were all there and children of all ages were able to ride on bikes or quads. Shane added: "The rain didn't dampen spirits and it was a great success. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed themselves."

The event was organised by SWARM - South Wales Aid for Riders' Machinery. Shane said: "They are a dedicated group of supporters who provide riders' tyres, fuel and oil for home and away meetings. The event was a credit to all those involved."

Newport's home meeting with Swindon, postponed earlier this month, will be staged on August 27, the start time to be confirmed.