The 6th annual Barry Sheene Memorial Challenge got underway today with the riders getting the opportunity to lap the Brands Hatch circuit ahead of their European Charity tour.
The tour is in aid of children's cancer charity Clic Sargent, of which two-time Grand Prix Motorcycle World Champion Sheene was a keen supporter. Following their lap of the Kent circuit, the riders lined up at the corner that had been named in Barry's honour as a tribute to the motorcycling great, who died of the illness in 2003.
Starting at Brands Hatch, the riders will head across the Channel into France, onto Belgium and Germany, before crossing the border to the Netherlands. The trip ends this weekend at the TT circuit in Assen for the Dutch round of the MotoGP World Championship on Saturday.
Lindley Horner, a rider from neighbouring West Kingsdown, said she would encourage all motorcyclists to take part in the event.
“It's an awesome experience made better by raising funds for kids and doing what we do well. The trip takes in some great roads, with the rider in mind. Each evening there is a synopsis of the event, so it's a win-win situation for everyone. I'd highly recommend this to any biker and we're grateful for support from Brands Hatch.”
Kerry Timbrell from Clic Sargent explained the reason behind the challenge and highlighted the positive effect the proceeds can have.
“This is the sixth year of the challenge, raising thousands for children with cancer. Our main aim is to ease the burden for children and their families – currently we can only help 2 out of 3 children but with the help of these riders, we're one step closer to helping every child.”
