We all know Honda’s Ross Brawn likes a bit of the old slap and tickle, but McLaren’s Ron Dennis – in his angling gear?
That is the sight that will welcome fundraisers to the McLaren Technology Centre today when, in a defining moment for the Woking base, its famous semi-circular lake will be opened up for a spot of fishing for the first time.
The one-hour fish fest is an opportunity for ardent McLaren fan Liam Fairhurst, to raise money for children’s cancer charity CLIC Sargent.
McLaren Team Principal Ron Dennis, who met the youngster when he visited Woking earlier in the year, couldn’t resist the opportunity to spice up the event and has offered Liam a donation for each fish he catches.
“Liam has one hour to catch as many fish as he can,” explained Ron. “But only he is permitted to handle the rod and only I can count up the number of fish before they are returned to the lake.â€
“Having said that, I’ll let him bring an expert angling coach. In return, I have promised Liam £50 for each fish he catches.”
Ron’s opposite number, McLaren CEO Martin Whitmarsh, will also get in on the action by adjudicating the event.
Liam has been raising money for the children’s cancer charity CLIC Sargent in memory of his friend, Jack Wilkinson, who died of the disease. Over the past 20 months, he has raised in excess of £250,000 – a remarkable achievement for anyone, not least Liam who has been fighting his own battle with cancer for the past three years.
To sponsor Liam visit
www.justgiving.com/mclarenliamfairhurstfishingchallenge
