Fundraising quest for moto champ Libby
A TEENAGE motocross champion has started raising money for her fellow rider who died last year whilst taking part in an event.
Jude Morris was 17-years-old when an accident occurred whilst partaking in the British Motocross Championship at Duns in the Scottish Borders last August.
Now, Libby Chatburn, a teenager from Accrington, is raising money - along with other riders - for a foundation set up in memory of Jude.
The 13-year-old is the 2021 British Women’s Motocross Champion in the WMX Small Wheel 85cc category.
Libby’s mum, Emma Chatburn said: “Motocross was Jude’s life and because of Libby, it’s our lives too.
“Libby has always been surrounded by bikes because her dad used to compete when he was younger.
“She got her first bike at four-years-old, so for nearly ten years she’s been passionate about the sport and competing in major events.
“Unfortunately we see lots of accidents at the track and Libby has had her fair share.
“It is something that is in your mind but as any sport there’s always a risk and Libby lives for motocross, it’s her passion as it is ours too.
“When Jude died last year, a lot of people rallied together to raise money for Jude’s foundation which supports other people in sport as well as giving money to Air Ambulances UK.
“It’s important to give to the air ambulances because it’s really needed within the motocross world, they’re called so many times and particularly because of their help when Jude’s accident happened.”
The Jude Morris Racing Foundation was set up by Jude’s family after his death and aims to help, develop and coach aspiring athletes through physical and mental performance guidance.
A lot of the money being raised focuses around the number
101, the number Jude used when he competed.
To fit the theme, Libby’s fundraising will see her carryingout a 1.01k bike ride every day for 101 days.
Emma continued: “As part of the fundraising that Libby is doing, some other riders are taking part in runs and other means of raising funds - largely around the number 101.
“It’s great to see because the Foundation really does some fantastic work, they host various events to raise money and awareness for rider’s mental training and help with what they should eat, drink and how to generally look after themselves.
“They’ve really looked after Libby as well, giving her free kits and parts for her bike when she has needed them.”
Proceeds donated to the Foundation will go towards a memorial for Jude that will take place August this year.