ThundersportGB has set up a race academy to help up-and-coming stars who don't have the funds to pay for rides on the path to world level racing.
Over the past 15 years, series boss Dave Stewart has quietly supported a number of riders, including Casey Stoner, on their way to World Superbikes or MotoGP and now plans to do it in an official capacity.
"The Thundersport Acadamy was born with this idea between Ian Newton and myself. When we spoke to others in our circle of contacts about it, we were pleasantly surprised to find that they wanted to become involved for the very same reasons as us," said Stewart.
We currently have four riders in the academy (three youngsters and one development rider) and we are hoping to expand this to 8 riders for the 2010 season if finances allow. Our lead rider is 13 year-old Fraser Rogers aboard the Honda RS125 running in Thundersport GP3 and also contesting the Red Bull Rookies Cup at Moto-GP.
"Anyone who has seen Fraser ride will be able to see that he is probably the most naturally talented youngster in the country today. The 2008 Aprilia Superteen Champion did have many approaches from teams and individuals to join their set ups, but these quickly evaporated when it became clear that his parents had exhausted their funds just getting him this far.
"This is not an uncommon situation and it isn’t a peculiarly British scenario either. We are often told that there are much better opportunities in Spain or Italy, but this is simply not true for riders who do not bring money to the teams concerned. Many rides are currently being priced at £30,000 - £60,000 per season, which is well beyond the means of most people.
"We have more racing circuits per square mile than any other European country, so we should be able to nurture our young talent with at least as much success as any other nation.
"Yet even here, Superstock rides in the domestic series are being touted at £25,000 - £40,000 to youngsters who’s parents can afford it. This is all very well for those that have those resources on tap, but I feel many more talented riders are being priced out of realising their potential.
"None of our riders are tied to future earnings percentages or long term contracts and they are free to take up any personal sponsorships they are offered. Two of them are on a completely free ‘turn up and ride’ basis and two pay a part contribution to their own running costs. Our aim is to gather enough funds to run all 8 riders on a no charge basis next year.
"John Davis (JDF Racing) and Derek Price (Magnum Motorsports) joined us at inception and we now have support from Nitro Helmets, Dunlop Tyres, Paul Walker and HRT Commercials."
For further details, call Paul Walker on07880 726305 or email paulbwalker@btinternet.com
