MOTO RAPIDO DUCATI TO REMAIN IN SUPERSTOCK FOR 2010
 
Moto Rapido Ducati have taken the decision to remain in the Metzeler National Superstock 1000 series for 2010 after plans to run Scott Smart in the new British Superbike Evo class encountered financial problems.

The move has been determined after a proposed title sponsor pulled out at the 11th hour. It has left the squad with no option but to run Smart and team-mate Leon Hunt in the litre-class but team boss Steve Moore is still upbeat about their chances this year.

Moto Rapido Ducati have completed their full rider line-up for the 2010 with the signing of Brighton youngster Leon Hunt who will race in the Metzeler National Superstock 1000 class. The 21-year old, who has moved up from the Superstock 600 series where he stood on the podium in 2009, will join Scott Smart in the Winchester-based squad. Smart will contest the MCE British Superbike Championship in the new Evo Superbike class.

Leon explains:

“I am very happy to be joining the Moto Rapido Ducati team for 2010. The Metzeler National Superstock 1000 Championship was an obvious next step for me on the way to British Superbikes which is where I want to be in the not-to-distant future”.

“I wanted to be in professional team this year and having someone as experienced as Scott Smart in the same garage will help me to learn the bigger bike a lot faster. The first test is in a couple of weeks and I can’t wait to get out there.”

Team boss Steve Moore added:

“We are delighted to have secured a young rider of Leon’s talent to step into Scott’s shoes in the Metzeler National Superstock 1000 Championship. This will be a steep learning curve for him but a lot of the development work Scott undertook last season with the bike should help Leon right from the word go. It is going to be a tough class this year, but we have every confidence in Leon’s abilities.”

Objektum Venues, will become the team guest title sponsor for the next event at Brands Hatch GP on 9th August.

Objektum Venues, specialist training venue provider, have been supporters of Moto Rapido Racing all year and as Brands Hatch is their local circuit a deal was reached for them to join other major sponsors Solent Scientific, Key 2 Group and Ducati UK.

Moto Rapido Racing came away from Donington Park after Scott Smart secured a second place in the National Superstock 1000 race and also gained a first UK podium for the Ducati 1198S.

The second place wrapped a satisfying meeting for Moto Rapido team as Scott and the team continued to make steady progress throughout practice and qualifying over the Bank Holiday.