BILLED as a Mini drag fest in every sense of the word, the British Mini Club's annual quarter-mile blast - British Mini Showdown - is a unique event in itself to compliment the clubs extensive 2006 show portfolio.

Believe it or not owners of classic and modern Minis take drag racing very seriously at the Shakespeare County Raceway at Long Marston as they try for the top times in 11 classes of against the clock competition.

Although the A-series engine is morally still king, there are more and more Vauxhall, V-tec and motorcycle bike powered Minis seen every year.

Take for instance last year's winner Stuart Meads. Not only had the south Londoner rem-oved a two-year conversion a mad nitrous induced Ford RS Turbo motor from the Minis boot but, in its place, replaced it with a Zetec Mondeo automatic version and came away from the Showdown as the World's Quickest Mini covering the quarter-mile in 10.5 seconds.

The World title for the quickest A-Series fell in the lap of Carl Austin's twin engined Mini! Revving to over 8000 rpm, Carl's 'twinny Mini' managed several eleven second flyers, the best being an 11.6.

As well as watching all of the weekend's track action, enthusiasts can wander through the many show 'n' shine entries and trade stands as well as catching up with fellow enthusiasts to make a Saturday evening social a welcome release from the stresses of racing.

And its not just the super-powerful Minis that compete either. Throw in a handful of American street cars and scaled down replica dragsters for the kids to race together with some awesome V8 powered nostalgia dragsters and historic funny cars and you've got the perfect mix for all ages.

More than 300 drivers signed up for last year's Showdown and, with over 1800 runs logged, British Mini Club officials are expecting a bumper turnout this weekend.

Admission is £10 per day or £25 for a weekend pass. To enter into the Showdown proper, track fee is £20 per day and £35 for weekend unlimited runs.

Further information can be accessed at www.britishminiclub.co.uk and www.shakespearecountyraceway.com.