Lolly for Laurie
By TMX Archives on 8th Feb 05
involved with the sport of motocross has heard of Laurie Squirrell. ALMOST EVERYONE involved with the sport of motocross has heard of Laurie Squirrell. Most know her as either the first female racer in the UK to gain expert status or more recently because of her accident in Texas.I personally never met Laurie before her accident but I have seen her race many times at Blaxhall Pits and have always admired the way she rode - as well as her determination. I felt sick on hearing news of the accident and also the extortionate cost of the hospital care she needs and I know that many people feel the same way.Rob Quelch was one man who felt the same and he had the vision to organise a charity track day at Mildenhall which attracted over 100 riders from around the country on a damp January day.There was a combination of all levels of rider from weekend warriors through to professional racers. But this day wasn't about who was fastest, who could clear the table tops or look the best - this was a gathering of the motocross community to help raise money for Laurie.As riders booked in and paid their money to ride they were not only given their wrist band but also handed a #13 sticker for them to place on their bikes.The track was wet after the melting of snow but the sun shone down for most of the day and although riding conditions weren't ideal at first this didn't really seem to matter. Riding started at 10am and things got muddy as the bikes ripped through the track. It was a bit sloppy at first but as the day went on it became drier and easier.Over 300 people attended the day and Laurie herself made a special trip down - her first visit to a track since the accident last year.One very special part of the day for everyone was to see Laurie riding around the track on a quad Rikki Priest had brought down. With Jamie Smith accompanying her, she gallantly lapped the circuit - with a huge smile on her face - to the applause of the crowd. It just showed that with all she's been through she's able to just keep on smiling.An intermission from riding in the afternoon saw an auction and raffle take place. Donations for these were received from far and wide and even people arriving on the day brought things to add to the collection.At the end of the day the final total raised was 5,737 and 12 pence which will all go directly to Laurie and her family. There are just too many people to thank for making this day happen and also making it so special. But two people deserve a mention - Rob of course for having the idea and organising the whole day as well as Cliff (and his staff) at Mildenhall for providing the track FOC.By Nicola Warrington Nicola's fee for this article will be donated to the Laurie Squirrell fund