Dozens of couriers from 10 Euro countries, including a queer team from Berne, Switzerland will partake in fun and competition this weekend based around the Eastway cycle circuit in Stratford.


According to media officer Ted Dave 'We'll be encouraging competitors to dress up as tranvestism is a common motif'.


Bill Chidley, Chair of LBMA stated that 'Messengers are sometimes percieved as a nuisance. We are keen to promote greater respect for more vunerable road users among our members and to encourage all messengers to abide by the Highway Code. Cycling is a vital part of this city's transport solution, and the courier community as its most visible exponent is determined to be part of that!'

Robin Superkid (vice-co-ordinator) made the point that 2003 will be bigger and better than the world championships (last held in London in 1994) with a more diverse and stronger international community of messengers united through the advent of the internet and cheap air fares.


Saturday-Monday are the main days of competition, with a specially constructed 'Babylondinium' in which the coveted individual prize will be decided this will test messenger-specific skills such as speed of collection, consolidation and delivery, as well as good old fashion speed in a straight line, there are also male and female individual prizes.


Also:

- A test of speed from a standing start, to be run in heats, culminating in a furious final on Monday.


- Fixed wheel competitions including the awesome longest skid, gravity defying track stand, and the entertaining backwards cicle.

- Real time 'controlled' race with controllers using 2 way radios to despatch teams of riders

- Cargo bike competition for specifically designed load carrying bikes, trikes and 4-wheelers.

- The rickshaw team challenge makes its thrilling debut

The 491 Gallery (491 Grove Green Rd, Leytonstone E11)
Hosts an photographic exhibition 'On a wheel and a prayer' until 29 May.

Friday (tomorrow) sees a memorial ride visiting the 6 points where the 6 couriers killed working died. Floral tributes to be laid. Meet Potters Fields (by mayors office) Junction of Tower Bridge Rd/Tooley St. 4PM

Party!!

Sunday night (25th) Eton Mission Social Club, 91 Eastway (junction of Eastway, Wick Rd & Chapman Rd, (next to shops) Hackney E9

3 quid in for non LBMA members. DJs, bands etc