Ashington bikers rev up for 2,000-mile challenge

Posted by The Journal on Dec 29, 08 10:42 AM in News

Motorbiking mates Tim McKay and Mark Sinclair are revving up for a two-wheeled challenge which will take them more than 2,000 miles across Europe.

The two friends from Ashington plan to cover the marathon distance in just 11 days in aid of a children's cancer charity.

Tim McKay (left), Mark Sinclair, and the 2,000 press-up challenge

They are joining the Barry Sheene Memorial Motorcycle Challenge, which sets off from the Brands Hatch racing circuit in May. More than 50 riders will be taking part in the journey, which sees them travel as far as Italy before heading back home.

Now Tim, an engineer at the Narec energy research centre in Blyth, and Mark, a dental technician, are busy raising the ÃÂ£5,000 they need to fund the trip and hit their challenge target.

Money raised by the trip will be donated by the two friends to the CLIC Sargent charity, which offers help, care and support to the families of children diagnosed with cancer.

One of their recent fundraising events was a sponsored press-up challenge at Ashington's Hirst Welfare, where Tim trains in the gym, is a committee member and takes boxing classes.

He persuaded more than 20 of his friends to complete 2,000 press-ups in just 10 minutes.

Tim, who rides a 650cc bike, and Mark, who owns a Triumph Daytona 955i, are both motorcycling fanatics.

Mark said: "Barry Sheene was everyone's hero so to be able to take part in this challenge in his memory is a dream come true for us. To do that, and at the same time raise money for such a worthwhile cause, will be very special indeed."

Tim said: "The support we are receiving is unbelievable."

Anyone who wants to support Tim and Mark can log on to their website.

We'd like to hear from you.
Send your stories, pics and videos to northumberland@ncjmedia.co.uk