They say never meet your heroes. Unless that hero is tea drinking motorbike racer Guy Martin! For 9 year old , Silsden Primary School pupil Jonnie Fannon, couldn’t believe it when Guy offered to support him during his 2018 trials season.
Dad Chris, an electrician had been working at Guy’s home and workshop, when the pair got chatting about motorbikes. With Guy a fan of all forms of two-wheeled sport he was keen to see what Jonnie could do on his electric-powered OSET 24.0R.
Guy said: “Jonnie is like a mini-me. He’s a real little character and if there was a world championship for questions – I think he’d win it. He’s definitely not shy and if a question comes into his head he’ll just ask it!
“I’m supporting Jonnie through my bike cleaner – Proper Cleaner. I’ve seen the state of Jonnie's bike after a trial – especially in winter – so he’ll need the proper stuff to get his bike straight again!” Job’s a peach!"
Discussing Jonnie’s riding career to date, Chris added: “We’re extremely grateful to be supported by OSET and Proper Cleaner this year. Jonnie has been riding motorbike trials since he was four. He finished first at Horsforth District Trials Club 2017, first at OSET Cup North 2017 and fourth at the ACU British Nationals last year. We’re aiming to be further up the podium in 2018. For me and Jonnie we want to ride happy, as that’s when we get our best results.”
The first round of the ACU British Championship takes place on the Isle of Man on 14 -15 April and will see Jonnie riding over, through and round a series of obstacles (called a section), without putting his feet down. A controlled, technical sport, a National level round sees competitors ride for up to 6.5 hours, covering a two-mile lap, three times consisting of 12 different sections.
Guy added: “Trials is a great way to get started on two wheels. It teaches kids balance, throttle control and whole range of techniques they can apply to any form of two-wheeled sport. I love getting the chance to ride myself and reckon Jonnie'll have a top year travelling round the UK riding at some awesome venues.”
Chris finished: “I’m made up for Jonnie. Working with someone like Guy is always interesting and yet again he’s come out and surprised us. We’re very grateful for the support and looking forward to doing our best this season.”
Jonnie said: “Guy is really nice. I’m a bit worried if I get my bike too dirty you won’t be able to see everything it says!”
With his sister Hollie and mum Lidia cheering him on, seems Jonnie's fanclub might one day rival Guy’s!
Images supplied courtesy of Trials UK Media.
