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Ferrari Supercars are going to be following the some of World’s fastest cyclists as they compete in a unique race at the popular Shropshire Star Newport Nocturne. The Inter County Couriers Olympian Challenge will feature some of Britain’s Olympic heroes competing over just one lap of the town centre circuit.
Promoter Mick Jeggo contacted the local Ferrari Owners Club with the idea of using the cars.
“We thought that having special riders demanded having special following cars!” said Mick, “I’m sure the cars will attract more people to the event, and if we can attract people who wouldn’t normally go to a bike race that’s got to be good for the sport”.
The most famous of the riders is Jason Queally, winner of the Kilometre TT in Sydney. Jason will be joined by Recycling’s Paul Manning, Chris Newton and Rob Hayles, all silver medallists in the team pursuit in Athens. All the riders are current World Champions.
Queally, in particular will be a big draw, as he is normally only seen on indoor tracks. It should be interesting to see how he will fare when racing on the road. On the one hand the distance is fairly close to what he would normally race on the track, however, he is more used to an unbroken flat out effort. By contrast, the team pursuiters are all seasoned performers on the road but will have just completed a gruelling Tour of Britain. It remains to be seen just how quickly they can adapt to riding such a short test.
Sponsor Paul Lloyd first became involved with the Nocturne in 2003. Paul said:
” I came along to the Nocturne and I was amazed by the size of the crowd and by the great atmosphere. I decided there and then to get involved and so I doubled the winners prize. This time I wanted to increase my involvment and I leapt at the chance to sponsor this special event. I think it’s a fantastic way to raise awareness of Inter County Couriers”.
The organisers are having a starting ramp constructed and will get the crowd to count down to each rider’s start. Promoter Michael Jeggo said
“I’m convinced the new event will bring thousands of spectators to Newport. After all, it’s not often you get five Olympic medallists competing in your local High Street!”.
The Inter County Couriers Olympian Challenge will take place between the Past Masters event for ex-Pro riders and the main Elite race. The Shropshire Star Newport Nocturne takes place on Saturday 10th September.
For race times and more details go to: www.bikerace.co.uk
