FORD WRC GURU FACES TWO-WHEEL CHALLENGE
Whilst most of the attention and headlines will be grabbed by the potential front-runners and actual winners during the days that lies ahead, one man’s participation at the 2011 FIM International Six Days Enduro (ISDE) has slipped quietly under the radar. To most the name Christian Loriaux might mean little, but within the World Rally community this Belgian guy is a technical guru who is held in the highest esteem. The forty-four year old technical director for the Ford Abu Dhabi WRC team is fulfilling a lifetime’s ambition by competing in the ISDE.
However, far from just satisfying his own personal desire to take part in the ISDE, Loriaux will also be raising money for charity, his chosen cause being Sparks, which is a British based organisation that was founded by professional sports people to fund medical research to improve children’s health. Normally associated with one of the toughest car championships in the World, Christian is fully aware of the task that faces him in the coming days and has recently competed in rounds of the Scottish, British and French domestic enduro series to ready himself.
“This race is so tough that simply finishing will be one of the biggest physical challenges I have faced in my life,” said Loriaux. “For the last 20 years I have ridden enduro races around Europe, with the dream that one day I would attempt the ISDE. That has now become a reality.” Explained Loriaux.
“As well as coping with the physical demands, I wanted to use my participation to raise money for a children’s charity. I’ve chosen Sparks and I’m fortunate enough to have attracted considerable sponsorship from a wide range of partners.”
“All the money raised will be donated directly to Sparks and I’m truly grateful to the support of so many people and companies who have donated to such a worthwhile cause,” concluded Loriaux.
Christian is riding with the number 338 on board a KTM 250 EXC two-stroke machine.
Bron: FIM-Live.com
