Lookers Volkswagen Darlington Saddling Up for Charity Race Day

Lookers Volkswagen Darlington are once again gearing up to compete in the annual St. Teresa’s Hospice Charity Race Day, taking place on Wednesday, July 10. 

The annual race day helps to raise vital funds for the hospice, which is celebrated for providing free care and support for the residents of Darlington, South West Durham and North Yorkshire who are affected by life-limiting illnesses. It will be the third time that the dealership has sponsored the event and competed in the pantomime horse race.

Last year, the dealership found online fame after a video of their race went viral.  The two-man team of sales executives Ryan Macdonald and Matthew Singh became overnight sensations after their panto horse, Wonky Donkey, veered off course and crashed into the railings, all of which was caught on camera by Racing UK.

“We got 1.7million hits on YouTube after last year’s race,” said Ryan, 24.

“Customers were coming into the dealership for months afterwards and still recognising us from the footage.

We were in the lead, but running in a straight line in full panto donkey costume is not as easy as it looks, Matthew tripped me from behind and I lost my trainer and then it all went wrong from there. When I hit the barrier I actually thought we had crossed the finish line and won then I took the donkey head off and saw everyone laughing.”

This year, Wonky Donkey will be joined by a second Lookers entry – general manager Lee Potts, sales manager Dave Clark and their  panto horse, Vin Petrol.

Lee, 40, said “This will be the third time that we have entered the panto horse run for St. Teresa’s and it was such good fun that this year we will be having two teams running.”

The dealership, who are sponsoring the event, will also be choosing the winner of best turned out horse and will be presenting the winner with a trophy.

Places are still available in the St. Teresa’s VIP Hospitality suite, at £65 per person. Ticket prices include a drink upon entry, buffet lunch, afternoon tea and coffee, a private tote and a talk from the race announcer. Tickets are limited and are by invitation only. For more details, please contact (01325) 254321 or email events@darlingtonhospice.org.uk.