All set for the BEN Fund Bonanza

Hammers star Richard Lawson will be riding for Great Britain against a Rest of the World Team in the Speedway Riders Benevolent Fund,  BEN Fund Bonanza which takes place at Leicester this Sunday at 2pm.

Ahead of the14-heat team event, which is followed by a five-race individual second half,  BEN Fund Bonanza organiser Paul Ackroyd has stressed the importance of the season’s curtain-raiser which raises funds for injured riders.

“2013 proved to be a very difficult year, with several riders suffering extremely serious injuries. Due to the support of the previous Bonanzas and Track Collections, the Fund was able to react swiftly and efficiently to be able to give the necessary assistance as required.

“A snapshot of the type of help we gave last year is: Assistance towards home adaptations, purchase of a wheelchair, assistance for former (veteran) riders suffering serious illness, and financial support was given to more than 50 current riders. In total we spent £120,000.”

In a great gesture of support, Hammers fan Antony Warren will be running the London marathon this year in aid of the cause. Antony will be at  Leicester promoting his run with Ben the SBRF mascot.

BEN FUND Teams:

GREAT BRITAIN: Tai Woffinden (capt.), Richie Worrall, Chris Harris, Danny King, Craig Cook, Kyle Howarth, Richard Lawson, Ben Barker.

REST OF THE WORLD: Bjarne Pedersen (capt.), Josh Grajczonek, Adam Skornicki, Cameron Woodward, Ty Proctor, Patrick Hougaard, Nick Morris, Morten Risager.

To learn more about the BEN Fund, please click here

For directions to Leicester Speedway, please click here

Image: Heat 8: Lakeside pair Lewis Bridger (red) and Richard Lawson – CREDIT: Gavin Ellis/TGSPHOTO