Motorcycling prospect Andy Blueman is facing a race against time to get his machine ready for the biggest day of his sporting life.

Andy has been specially invited by organisers to race in the British Championships at Donington Park tomorrow (Saturday) - the first time he has been able to compete at that standard.

But the Leigh-on-Sea racer, who normally competes at 125cc level in the Motorbike Racing Organisation championships, was given only a few days to set up the bike after the invite came out of the blue.

The team originally expected to be off the road until the next MRO race on May 1. But an excellent 7th-place finish in his last race at Snetterton saw the plans go out of the window as Andy was invited for this weekend's big event.

Andy Snr, the man charged with setting up the bike for his son, said: "In the back of my mind I had thought I had three weeks to set up the bike, but I've even had to cancel my day off playing golf to make sure we're ready."

The problem is that Andy's bike will be put through more pressure than usual in the higher class of racing. The MRO events are only 15 laps, while the British championships could be as many as 30.

Andy Snr added: "The bike would have been good for three club class races with just minor changes but for this event we need to replace a lot of things brand new."

The race offers Andy Jnr the chance to grab the spotlight on the national stage and continue his learning process.

"It's a great opportunity to race against the best riders in the country and hopefully attract the sponsorship we desperately need if we are to compete at this level."

Anyone who can help with sponsors should call Andy Snr on 01702 474727.

Chasing a dream - Andy Blueman Jnr is pulling out the stops to make his first appearance in the British championships

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