'Modball' adventure for lads

The MODball 2010: Sunshine and Beaches tour kicked off yesterday (Wednesday) with four local lads taking part in the five day rally.

Blaine Leathem, Ronnie Russell, Simon Bingham and Fergal Leathem are taking part in the rally to raise funds for the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children Around 125 cars will take part in the massive journey across Europe.

They travelled to the starting point, London, on Monday and from there they will set off to Le Mans to San Sebastian through to Madrid, Barcelona, Monaco and Geneva before returning to London - with a secret location revealed at the launch.

The MODball rally is for cars that have been modified and has been described as the 'most bonkers trip in the world'.

The Lurgan guys will be travelling in a modified BMW eight series and Honda Civic.

"It's a bit of fun, but we thought why not do it for a good cause," said Ronnie (28).

"My nephew was treated by the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children when he became very ill.

“The staff were very helpful and we couldn't think of a better cause to help.

"We have paid for all the travel costs including the all-important RAC cover ourselves so every penny raised will go direct to the hospital."

Blaine (22) will be driving the BMW with its own personalised number plate, which he claims is supposed to be his name, although the others argue differently.

He added: "It is going to be tough, we will be driving for over 10 hours - but we will have a bit of craic along the way.

"Monaco will be a real highlight, I can't wait to get there wind down the window and cruise around the world famous Lowes Hairpin. I've had a big of stick over my number plate, it's supposed to be 'Blaine', but some say it looks more like 'big jane'."

Simon (24) said: "The heat is going to be a problem, we may need a grinder to carve out a few extra ventilation holes in the cars.

"Four thousand miles may not seem that much - but it's one mile after another that's the problem.

"If we survive this one then it will be good preparation for next year."

Fergal, Blaine's brother is the youngest of the group, the 19-year-old said: "We don't know where we are going or how we are getting there but it will be fun."

To sponsor the guys contact Blaine on 077 8685 3294.