Co-ordit Yamaha have announced they will field three riders in three classes of the British Superbike schedule this year, with Richard Cooper heading the charge in National Superstock.
For the first time, Cooper can commit to a full season of racing within the British Superbike series. As well as competing in the Superstock class, Cooper will contest selected rounds of the British Superbike Cup, Stars of Darley and Race of the Year for Co-ordit Performance.
Making the switch in machinery from Triumph to Yamaha for 2009 will be 22-year-old David Hallett. The Canterbury-born rider will be a front-runner in the fierce contest for the British Supersport Cup Championship onboard a Co-ordit Performance Yamaha YZF-R6. Hallett scored a season best finish of third at the technically demanding Knockhill circuit on his way to fifth overall last season, and has been training hard over the winter to focus on the task ahead.
Completing the Co-ordit Performance rider line-up is Brighton based Leon Hunt. Continuing on Yamaha machinery for a second year, Leon began his career in the National Superteen Championship in 2003, progressing to a successful season with the ACU Academy, before cutting his Supersport teeth in the Virgin Mobile R6 Cup.
A move to the World Superbike paddock in 2007 was blighted with injury but a return to form and the UK in 2008 proved a profitable move for the 20-year-old. Competing for the Excel Performance Yamaha team on a limited budget, Leon took a number of top placings, including second at Brands Hatch, on his way to 10th overall.
For 2009 we have 3 great riders competing in three championships, but we are certainly not here just to make up the numbers, all our riders have the ability and experience to achieve podium finishes," said team boss Pete Bradshaw.
"It's great that Richard wanted to continue his career with us for a second season, and I'm sure he will reward the team with even better results than last year. Dave Hallett showed solid commitment last year and I feel that this year with the support of the team we can get those podiums, together with regular championship points.
"Leon Hunt will be showing the rest of the club racers what can be achieved in the 600 ‘stocks onboard the Co-ordit Yamaha."
