Revving up cash appeal

Mar 6 2003 Christopher Beesley, Ellesmere Port Pioneer

MOTORCYCLING: A LITTLE Sutton motorcycle race ace is appealing to companies in the area to help keep his dream of competing at national level on track.

Richie Gelder, 36, will achieve his lifetime ambition this month when he rides in the New Era Championship at Mallory Park on Sunday March 16.

But he only has enough finance in place to cover the first three rounds of the 15-date series which runs until autumn.

Richie said: 'I've been racing in track days, which are the next stage down, for the past eight years and I certainly know I'm quick enough to be competitive at this higher level.

'But sheer ability just isn't enough, you need a comprehensive financial package in place to last the course. I've put £10,000 of my own money into my title bid and I haven't even turned a wheel yet!

'My team is made up of family and friends and several companies in the town have been good enough to help me out but I still need to find a major backer to ensure I can complete the season.'

Firms who have already supported Richie's campaign include Warpspeed for maintenance, Ellesmere Port Used Ford Spares for painting and wcperformance.com who have provided him with parts at cost price.

Richie's package covers him for two races to Mallory, the second being on April 6, and a trip to the Snetterton circuit in Norfolk on March 29-30.

This trio of rounds form the Basic Club Championship but if Richie is to progress he will have to cover the cost of competing for the rest of the year in the Super Club Championship.

Further dates include Cad-well on April 12-13, Mallory April 27, Snetterton May 10-11, Oulton Park June 14, Silverstone August 9, Donington August 25 and Cadwell on September 20-21.

Richie, who will be racing on his Suzuki GSXR 600, is hoping potential sponsors will not be put off by his age.

He said: 'The champion for the past six years is 41 so I'm confident I've still got my best years ahead of me.'

* If you think you can help Richie call him on 0151 200 2838 or 07815 892 573.