Twelve local cyclists are set to stage an endurance stunt on Waitrose car park on Saturday in preparation for their epic adventure across the Pyrenees.
The entrepid bikers will be covering a total 450 miles in 100 hours over the European mountain range in August.
And in a bid to drum up support they will be cycling for an entire day, on a static machine, outside the town supermarket.
Saturday’s event will see members of the team taking turns to keep the wheels of two bikes rolling from 8.30am until 4.30pm in the afternoon.
And members of the public will be able to provide sponsorship by guessing how many miles they will clock up.
A hamper of goodies and meal for two at the Fox will be up for grabs for the people with the closest estimates.
Organiser Simon Broad said they are looking forward to getting the challenge underway after months of planning.
He said: “It’s a classic cycling test, and our team can’t wait to get going on our epic journey. In 1995, four members of Newport Cycling Club, Lana Savchenko, Dave Preece, and my father Ken and I joined two friends from a Manchester club to ride the same route.
“We successfully completed the ride in aid of the John Simpson charitable appeal, and this time round we’re hoping to raise a five-figure sum.”
As well as Simon and Ken, other riders hoping to take part this year are Mark Bagshaw, Ian Barton, Steve Bowers, Barry Bowen, Phil Evans, Chris Jones, Gary Parkman, Tim Roberts and Sam Westwood.
They will be supported by a back-up team with a qualified paramedic along with two drivers and mechanics.
Saturday’s event follows the successful completion of the Shropshire Highland Challenge which the team entered last Sunday, covering 72 miles.
The group has received support from Ultimate Taxis, Henshalls Insurance and Wrekin Circuits.
Sponsorship opportunities are still available for the team kit. Anyone wishing to donate or sponsor can contact 07973 155579 or 07967 030499.
By Sam Pinnington