The island’s four motorsports national governing bodies will join together to honour those who have made outstanding contributions to karting, street biking, dirt biking and powerboat racing.

Members of the Bermuda Karting Club, Bermuda Motorcycle Racing Club, Bermuda Motocross Club and the Bermuda Power Boat Association will meet at the Spanish Point Boat Club tonight at 6.30pm, as they look to launch the Bermuda Motorsports Hall of Fame.

It is hoped the hall of fame will help preserve the history of all four sports on the island and recognise those who have “been innovative in their affiliate clubs’ growth and expansion”.

Nominees must have been a club founder, race-team owner, volunteer, mechanic, committee member or motorsports advocate, as well as having served their clubs for a minimum of five years.

The idea is the brainchild of Scott Barnes, the island’s top karting driver, and has been well supported by members of the island’s motorsport fraternity, who are keen to formally recognise those who have “gone beyond the call of duty”.

Takera Dill, the Bermuda Motorcycle Racing Club president, said five inductees from each club will be welcomed into the hall of fame in April at a yet to be determined venue. The nomination deadline is March 15.

“We’ve had discussions about a physical facility [for the hall of fame], but I think giving these legends the recognition they deserve is the first step,” she said.

“We’re not just looking to honour those who won the most races; we’re looking at volunteers, flaggers, team managers, anyone who was involved in the club in some aspect.”

David Selley, the vice-commodore of the Bermuda Power Boat Association, believes more needs to be done to keep alive the memory of the island’s motorsport heroes.

“There’s a rich history of motorsports in Bermuda and, as a whole, these sports don’t often get the respect they deserve,” Selley said.

“There’s a lot of people who have come before us, who have done a lot for the sports, and I’m glad Scott is really pushing this.

“If we don’t pass it on, nobody will ever know the greats of [Bermuda motorsport].

Selley, a two-times winner of the Around the Island Powerboat Race and an avid karter, added: “There’s definitely a level of respect between all four motorsports on the island.”