Two-time World Supersport Champion Andrew Pitt has announced his retirement from racing at the age of 35 after a shoulder injury sustained in 2010 hasn't healed sufficiently to allow him to compete at the top level.
Pitt suffered the nasty crash at Brands Hatch but re-appeared last season in the MSS Colchester Kawasaki squad as Gary Mason's crew chief with the Lichfield rider having his most successful season to date.
"When I first came to Europe in 2000 I could never have imagined I would spend 11 seasons racing in the World Championship. It really has been a fun ride and I have gained lots of great memories, as well as some painful ones, along the way. Winning the World Championships was something that I will have forever and never forget. And riding some of the best machines in the world has been incredible," said Pitt.
“I love motorcycles and riding them as fast as possible, and the best one has to be the 2007 M1 MotoGP machine. I really enjoyed being part of that development and testing team.
"It wasn't the perfect ending and you can't always choose how you go out but I am still in one piece and at least I have time to work on my cycling now. I will miss the good days on the podium for sure but I will continue to ride in testing and training roles, as well as pursue my motorcycle magazine and television work. I want to stay in the motorcycle industry and I still have the same passion for bikes now as I did when I was 10-years old.
“I'd like to say a very special thank you to first of all my fans, who stuck with me in good years and not so good years. Also, my family, particularly my father Carl, have always been there for me and backed me in my racing, from the days of us driving across Australia in a van to supporting me in MotoGP or WSBK paddocks, they have been fantastic.
“And my personal sponsors who have stood by me always – Milspec Services, Premier Helmets, RST leathers and SIDI boots. Thanks also to all of the thousands of officials, marshals, medics, volunteers, mechanics, crew members and journalists that have helped me over the years.”
