Wirral cyclists invited to endure 'Ten Minutes of Hell' in Mersey tunnel (From Wirral Globe)

Wirral cyclists invited to endure 'Ten Minutes of Hell' in Mersey tunnel

12:37pm Wednesday 8th February 2012 in News

WIRRAL cyclists are invited to race against the clock through the Mersey Tunnel.

‘Ten Minutes of Hell’ is a chance for the borough’s best riders to test their speed through the Queensway Tunnel in aid of the charity Calder Kids.

Organisers at Vita Cycles have agreed with Merseytravel for the tunnel to be closed off from 12pm – 4pm on Sunday, February 19.

And it is hoped that more cyclists will sign up to the time trial before the closing date this Friday.

Vita Cycles director Barry Wallace said: "This is a race against the clock where riders will be competing for the best time through the tunnel.

"It has never been done before so it is something a bit different while raising money for a good cause.

"We want to get the word out there about the event because there are still a few local cycling clubs that don’t know it is even happening so it would be great to have some of the best local riders."

The 6.48km route will take riders to Liverpool and back through "sweeping turns, deceiving ascents and acute descents”, according to the event's webpage.

Prizes include £1,000 cash, a Swift TT Aeronaut Frame Set and helmets.

And it is hoped that ‘Ten Minutes of Hell’ could become an annual event if it proves to be a success.

Barry added: "Assuming it is a success, it would be fantastic to do it again and have the tunnel closed for longer so we could have more riders taking part."

Entry is limited to 100 competitors and the fee is £25. For more information call 0151 648 0057 or e-mail info@vitacycles.co.uk

The event is NOT open to motorcyclists.