THOUSANDS OF MOTOGP FANS COME OUT TO RAISE MONEY FOR RIDERS FOR HEALTH MotoGP fans and supporters of Riders for Health – the official charity of MotoGP – flocked to Silverstone to raise money for Riders for Health’s lifesaving work in Africa yesterday [Thursday 17th June] raising an amazing £185,607. With people able to enjoy wonderful sunshine all day fans took the chance to see the stars of MotoGP ahead of the British grand prix this weekend. The teams and riders all took part, throwing open the doors of the exclusive MotoGP paddock to lucky ticket holders. Fans had the chance to walk amongst the team hospitality suites and technical trucks, while on the pit-lane teams gave fans a glimpse of the work that goes into preparing a motorcycle for a weekend’s racing. In the Entertainment Zone John Price guided fans through a day of fun on stage. Teams took part in A Question of Bikes quiz show, hosted by the BBC’s Steve Parrish and Matt Roberts. Jules Ryder interviewed those on the inside of MotoGP, while British star and two-time world superbike champion James Toseland and his band Crash kept the party going all day. Away from the stage there were stunt shows, rides on the infield Stowe Circuit with teams from the British Side-car championship, music and street entertainment. Of course the highlight of the day was the famous Day of Champions auction, which raised tens-of-thousands of pounds for Riders’ work in Africa. The riders all appeared on stage to give their thoughts about Sunday’s race and to auction the unique and valuable items they brought with them. Other once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience MototGP from the inside included the chance to step onto the grid for the big race on Sunday. The money raised at Day of Champions will have a huge impact on Riders for Health’s work in Africa, allowing the organisation to mobilise more health workers and reach even more men, women and children with lifesaving health care.