The Brands Hatch 2008 season opener on 6 April can’t come soon enough for Team Appleyard/Macadam as they take to the track with a new and expanded team line-up in both the GP125 class where they have had huge success and also in Supersport 600. The move to compete in the 600 class demonstrates the team’s philosophy of developing talented young riders and helping them progress in their racing careers.
Making the move to Supersport 600 is Ashley Beech who brought the team such success last year with fourth place in the British GP125 Championship. With backing from Yamaha UK, he will be riding a new Wrathall-tuned Yamaha R6 for his first foray into this competitive class.
Young hotshot Deane Brown joins the team for 2008 riding the SEEL engined GP125 machine with a Kenny Roberts chassis. The 14 year-old Scot showed great form in 2007 and as a result has again been selected to ride in the KTM Red Bull Rookie Grand Prix Support races. Last year he enjoyed considerable success in this series also claiming a best place of 2nd in Valencia in October.
The team line-up is completed by 16 year-old Jordan Thompson, who will compete in the British GP125 Championship for the second season running. During his learning year at British Championship level in 2007, Jordan acquitted himself extremely well and has high hopes for 2008.
As ever, the team will be managed by ex-GP rider and British Champion Robin Appleyard. Robin will devote his time and expertise to help all three riders perform to the best of their potential. Also looking forward to an exciting and successful season are joint team owners and long time supporters of motorcycle racing, Colin Appleyard and Doug Macadam. Underlining his commitment to the sport and to raise the profile of the team and ensure better value for team sponsors and trade suppliers, Doug Macadam has invested heavily in an all-new articulated racing rig. Make sure you look out for it, for it is certain to be one of the smartest on the circuit.
Throughout the 2008 season Team Colin Appleyard/Macadam Racing will be continuing with its policy of developing the talents of young riders. After a number of relatively barren years it is encouraging for everyone involved in UK bike racing to see a new crop of talented young British riders coming through to the top level of our sport, many of whom have started their careers in teams with similar philosophies to Team Appleyard Macadam.
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www.colinappleyardracing.com.
