The newly crowned 2010 Scottish Mini-Moto Champion dropped by FirstGroup’s headquarters today to show off the trophy he has retained for the second year running.
Aberdeen’s Lee Hepburn (16), was crowned Mini-Moto champion in November 2010 and today confirmed that he will defend his title for a third consecutive year in 2011. FirstGroup, the UK’s largest bus and rail operator, was Lee’s major sponsor for the 2010 season.
During the visit, he gave a short exhibition of his riding skills around one of First’s 14.5 feet tall double deckers on his state of the art 22 inch tall winning motorbike.
FirstGroup’s Marketing Manager, Avril Gill, inspected Lee’s state of the art mini-moto and said: “This is the second time Lee has brought his motorbike in to celebrate a successful season and it never ceases to amaze me just how small the bike is! It was fantastic to seem him ride around on of our buses, the size difference is staggering.”
She added: “I could not be more pleased with Lee’s success – he is an excellent ambassador for the sport. I’ve no doubt that he will get his hat trick by finishing in top place again next year.”
After giving an exhibition on his Polini 8.5hp 40cc Mini-Moto bike, which can reach top speeds of 60 -70mph Lee said: “2010 has been a fantastic year for me. I won the Scottish Championship with one race still to go and so I was able to really enjoy the last race.
“I’m hoping that 2011 will be just as successful whilst I consider making the jump to racing 125cc motorbikes (the next grade) in the future.”
He continued: “I am extremely grateful to First for backing me in 2010. Its support has helped cover expenses such as fuel, spare parts, transport and accommodation.”
Lee’s mother, Avril Hepburn, works for First in its finance department. She said: “We are extremely proud of Lee and his accomplishments. However, it is a very costly sport to participate in and so we were delighted that First agreed to come on board!”
Lee, who stays in Aberdeen city centre with his parents, kicks off the 2011 at Kirkcaldy in March. He will compete in eight championship races in total with the final race in Larkhall in November.
In the 2010 season Lee claimed six first places, one second and one fifth to be crowned Scottish Champion for the second year in succession.
Lee Hepburn was awarded funding by FirstGroup’s Sponsorship and Charity Committee. The Committee comprises 12 members of staff based throughout
Britain and considers requests for funding and gifts from groups and organisations across the country. It aims to provide charitable support in line with three specific criteria – young people, health and the environment. For further information on the Committee please visit www.firstgroup.com
ENDS
Photo caption: FirstGroup's Marketing Manager, Avril Gill and Lee Hepburn show off the trophy he has retained for the second year running