Former ACU Suzuki GSX-R600 Trophy racer Marcus Woodbine has signed up with Gearlink Kawasaki to run in the 2009 Junior Superstock Championship, proving that the Trophy does help develop new racing talent.

The 17-year-old had some success in the GSX-R Trophy but suffered a set back when he broke his arm at Anglesey during the sixth round of the Championship on the 26th July, however he bounced back taking a fine fourth place at Brands Hatch on his return to action.

The Sheffield rider is looking forward to his new venture and will join team-mates Chris Martin and Ben Wilson as the team starts its pre-season testing. He can’t wait to get back on a 600 and start preparing for the opening round of the series at Brands Hatch over the Easter weekend, 10th - 13th April.

Michael de Bidaph, Gearkink team boss,  said: “I am pleased to welcome Marcus into our team and look forward to seeing him develop as the season progresses. We run a very professional team here at Gearlink Kawasaki and Marcus will have the advantage of being able to draw on the wealth of our experience and that of our two Supersport riders.”
                                                                                                                           
Dave Luscombe, ACU Business Development Manager added: “I’m thrilled to see one of our riders moving on to such a respected team. The GSX-R Trophy is aimed at making racing accessible to young riders who are the future of our sport.

"We keep the costs as low as possible which at the moment is essential, for 2009 our riders will be on the grid for under £9000. We use a number of tracks which host British Superbike rounds and try to give the riders as much feed back and assistance as possible to help them improve. We will be watching Marcus’s progress with great interest.”