Southend Leisure and Tennis Centre will host the Raleigh Challenge 2002 on March 23 (11am).

This is a national cycle skills competition for under 13s and targets children new to cycling competitions. Each rider tackles a skills course to demonstrate his or her bike handling and control.

The competition is open to the following age categories: school year 2 and under, years 3 to 5 and years 6 to 8.

The best riders will be invited to take part in one of 10 regional finals when a time trial is added.

Every rider who competes in a local heat will be entered into a national draw, and one lucky boy and girl will each receive a Raleigh Mountain Bike.

Cost is £3 per child and a roadworthy bike and helmet is needed.

Published Monday, March 11, 2002