Honda backs rider development series

From the Honda bunker: In addition to renewing their sponsorship of the Motorcycle Road Racing Development Association's (MRRDA) junior series next year, Honda Australia is further supporting the move to prepare racers for a professional career through the MRRDA's all-important seminar series.

Three seminars to take place in VIC, NSW and QLD over the coming weeks are open to riders of all ages and will include sessions on how to obtain sponsorship, media awareness and bike set up.

Honda's own factory road race Team Manager, Paul Free, will present the technical session which focuses on teaching riders how to increase a bike's speed and handling on the race track.

According to MRRDA Chairman, Paul Edwards, anyone who is planning on going racing in 2008, will not want to miss attending.

"Having Paul Free from Honda attend is a real bonus for us as he is incredibly knowledgeable about race bike set up," he said.

"It is also important that the rider know how to handle the press so anyone who wants to be a PR dream rather than a PR nightmare will get a lot out of the media awareness session being presented by Mick Matheson (Editor of Australian Motorcycle News)."

Travis Atkins, Managing Director of Max Group Australasia will present the sponsorship session which will focus on identifying and approaching potential sources of funding for a race team.

Travis has worked on major projects such as the Sydney Olympic Games and Salt Lake Winter Olympics as well as major sporting codes in Australia and New Zealand. He will also provide attendees with a sponsorship proposal CD that can be personalised.

Honda is subsidising the cost of the program meaning attendees need only pay a nominal fee, and the seminars are open to anyone of any age who is interested in racing.

To download a Registration form, go to the training page on the MRRDA website (pictured): www.mrrda.com

Venues/dates are as follows:

In 2008 MRRDA will again be running a five round series for Junior, 125GP, 250GP, 250 Production and Formula 400 classes only.

Junior riders are judged on their marketability, attitude, character and skill as well as their racing. The winner of the on-track component will win a trip to compete at the Asean Cup in Motegi, Japan compliments of Honda Australia and Honda Motor Co. Pty Ltd. The overall winning rider will also receive an all expenses paid trip to compete in the Red Bull Rookies Cup Final trials.