Reigning World Superbike Champion Tom Sykes was today given the coveted RAC Torrens Trophy during a special ceremoney in London's Pall Mall.
The trophy has only been handed out seven times since in inception in 1978 and is awarded to an individual or organisation considered to have made an outstanding contribution to the cause of safe and skilful motorcycling in Britain. Sykes was handed it by the last winner, two-time WSBK champion James Toseland.
"I feel very privileged that the Royal Automobile Club considers me worthy of it,’ said 28 year-old Tom. ‘It’s taken a long time, and a lot of hard work, and it’s an honour to be recognised by such well respected industry figures. I am very proud."
"Tom had a tough time in the 2012 season, losing the World Superbike title by just half a point," commented Toseland; "But after the winter break he came back more motivated and more determined in 2013. I watched the race at Magny Cours and was really impressed by how focused and consistent he was in such terrible conditions. It’s a great achievement to win the Torrens Trophy and be recognised by such an established and respected organisation as the Royal Automobile Club."
Four-time World Superbike Champion Carl Fogarty also had kind words for Sykes: ‘Congratulations and good on you mate, well deserved. I’m really pleased for you – especially when you came so close before. It’s a great achievement and I am sure you will win again this season. When you notch up another 58 race wins, and a few more World Superbike Championships, please can you call it a day and walk away! Only joking, I am a big fan, well deserved."
