DORSET Pentathletes are in desperate need of sponsorship ahead of the World Biathle Championships in Dubai.

Twenty-two members from the club have qualified to represent Great Britain, including a whole host of youngsters from South Dorset.

However, the athletes will have to find a way of funding their own travel costs in order to compete in the global event on October 30, as the sport receives very little funding.

Vicky Gowers, mother of Zoe, said: “Zoe is only 11 and to be honest we did not expect her to qualify but she went to the Nationals in Salford and performed really well. However, going to Dubai is going to cost around £2,000 for a child and a parent, which is obviously a lot of money.

“We went to Monaco last year, which was not too bad, but Dubai is going to be a stretch for all those that have qualified and of course their parents.

“Zoe has already begun plant watering in the local neighbourhood to raise a bit of money and we are also hoping to put some fundraising events together where all the athletes will take part in things like bag packing at local supermarkets.

“The problem is, the sport is not very well funded at the moment but I am sure it will get there in the end. Biathle is currently not a forerunner compared to pentathlon and biathlon, and at times it can be a bit frustrating especially considering all the training and hard work the athletes put in throughout the winter and summer.

“Their efforts deserve to be rewarded but trying to get people interested in helping the club in terms of sponsorship has never been easy.”

Dorset Pentathletes have claimed the tag of top club in Britain for the last four years. Head coach Mick Flaherty added: “Current sponsors Humphries Kirk Solicitors, White Stuff and Dorset Cereals provide samples and goody bags for local events, which we are extremely grateful for, but we really need more to come forward.

“The club has been really successful over the last four years, beating all independent schools and other run-swim clubs throughout the country, and that is down to a talented group of athletes, and a dedicated team of parents and coaches, who all give up their time.

“We have also won the sportsister.com award for female participation in sport due to the huge amount of girls we have at the club, which is another great honour.”

If anyone is interested in sponsoring the club or a specific member of the team for the World Championships, or alternatively have any fundraising ideas, they can contact Flaherty on 07917444641 or email flaherty121@aol.com

The following Dorset Pentathletes have been selected to represent Great Britain in Dubai: Alexander Hind, William Blackledge, Callum Mullins (10-and-under); Zoe Gowers, Elizabeth Hood, Harrison Yarnold, Jonathon Greenwood, Jacob Whittall (12-and-under); Bethan Whittall, Rebecca Bowles, Victoria Halford, Oliver Mullins, Danielle Bury, Jordon Symington, Tom Mules (14-and-under); Christopher Perham, Africa Mason (16-and-under); Melissa Courtney, Tom Crew (18-and-under); Nick Ireland, Andy Whittall (Masters); Richard Bowles (Seniors).