The Pre56 MG event was devised by David McNabb and Peter Croft in 1976 with the express aim of providing a focus and a reason for maintaining, restoring and motoring what was fast becoming an old and often not appreciated MG, the Morris Motors derived cars which may be described as the traditional MG and built before 1956. This was a time when the youngest MGAs were 14 years old (equivalent to 2010 in 2024) and MGBs were the current sporting model.

The 1^st event was held at the VCC club rooms and grounds, Christchurch, Easter 1977. In 1979,  during the fuel crisis, a slightly lesser event took place in Timaru. In 1981 the pre 56 was in Marton, and was the 1^st time MGAs were invited. That invitation has been extended for every pre 56 since. However it must be noted that the MGAs and Z series cars cannot enter the Pre 56  as such, but attend their own rally held concurrently and combined with the pre 56 event. They compete for their own trophies, awards, etc which are presented by one of their representatives at the combined Farewell and Prize Giving Dinner.

The Pre56 event usually follows the format as below.

Programme

Costs

 It is the aim of the organisers to run this event at absolutely minimal cost. Set costs will include hire of facilities, meal costs of the welcoming gathering, lunch after the gymkhana and the Farewell and Prize Giving Dinner. Also there is the cost of the traditional rally plaque. It is anticipated that there will be no entry fee or any other costs associated with the event, as these will be met from accumulated  pre 56 funds.

Accommodation

Accommodation is the entrant’s responsibility. There are a number of rooms penciled in. Please watch for email advice of the main accommodation venues and mention the Pre 56 MG gathering when you book. If entrants wish to stay elsewhere there are a number of motels and the camping ground, all of which I am sure would be delighted to hear from you.

Entry Form

An entry form will be emailed to anyone inquiring and to past participants. It will soon be available online when the new MG Pre56 website is up and running.

Website

We expect to soon have an official 2025 Pre 56 Rally website. When there is one a link will posted below.

Pat Widdup and Lynette Joy.

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