Lewis Hamilton has put Gary Barlow, Ben Shepherd and Chris Moyles through their paces during a day at the McLaren Technology Centre in preparation for the pair's imminent Kilimanjaro climb for Red Nose Day 2009.
The Formula 1 World Champion met the stars this week to discuss their physical and mental preparation for the climb, before getting them in gear for a work out using McLaren's exclusive fitness facilities.
Lewis said "It is a phenomenal personal challenge that all the Comic Relief climbers are undertaking and I have a huge amount of respect for them. When racing, you are always faced with challenges and they are what pushes and motivates you as a competitor, so I know what must be going through the guy's minds as they prepare for what lies ahead of them. It was fantastic to welcome Gary, Ben and Chris here to McLaren and to have the opportunity to wish them, and their team mates, the best of luck. They're all so determined to get to the top and raise as much cash as possible so I'm confident they'll all make it".
Gary said "It was amazing to speak to a world champion about the techniques he uses to stay calm under pressure. I know I'm fit enough to make it and now I feel mentally ready for the climb of my life".
Ben said "Lewis is a living legend. I've taken on his advice and now I'm more determined than ever to get to the summit".
Chris added: "Lewis certainly put me through my paces on the treadmill, I think he enjoyed watching me suffer! Perhaps his fitness will rub off on me ready for the climb. I'm very happy Lewis has sponsored me with such a generous amount."
Gary, Ben and Chris will be joined on the climb by fellow celebrities Alesha Dixon, Cheryl Cole, Denise Van Outen, Fearne Cotton, Kimberley Walsh and Ronan Keating.
Mount Kilimanjaro stands at a whopping 19,340 feet above sea level; is the tallest mountain in Africa and the highest free-standing mountain in the world. It will take the celebrity climbers an exhausting 8-day trek to reach the summit.
The celebrity team's incredible efforts will raise money to help change lives across Africa and the UK. In particular the celebrities will be exploring how they can help tackle malaria, a disease which kills a child every 30 seconds across Africa. In Tanzania, where Kilimanjaro is situated, malaria is the leading killer of children.
With money raised through this extraordinary event Comic Relief will be able to provide mosquito nets that can prevent potentially fatal bites that cause malaria, as well as helping extremely vulnerable, poor and disadvantaged people here in the UK. A small amount of cash can make a huge difference so sponsor the team at www.rednoseday.com/sponsortheteam
