MVR-D goes for best of British
By Mannix Devlin on 11th Nov 11
The Route77energy MVR-D Honda team has withdrawn from the world series for 2012.
But it is all systems go for the Sussex-based outfit as the team concentrates all its efforts on the UK scene, with no less than three new high-profile signings – Gert Krestinov, Jason Dougan and Bradley Pocock!
Team principal, Mark Chamberlain, explained the change in emphasis: "The cost of competing at world level has spiralled over the last few years and we made a conscious decision to step back in 2012 to concentrate on the UK scene with the support of Honda UK.
"We had a difficult first year together in 2011 with injuries to Matiss, but Neil Tuxworth – manager of Honda Racing – understands this situation and confirmed Honda's commitment to the team.”
The withdrawal from the world stage meant the loss of Matiss Karro, but the Baltic connection is retained as Route77energy continues as title sponsor and, after a solid first season in the UK, Estonian Gert Krestinov has been signed.
"We inevitably had to let Matiss go, but Gert is fully committed to the UK and Rolandas Sakauskas was delighted that we still have a Baltic connection as his company, Route77energy, continues as the team's title sponsor.”
It will not be Krestinov's first connection with MVR-D.
"Gert raced one of our bikes in 2006 at an Under 21 Championship race at Torrington, with a view to doing a deal, and he finished on the podium,” added Chamberlain.
"A tie-up didn't happen at the time, but we have always remained in contact and I'm pleased to welcome him to join us
full-time.”
One of the closest kept secrets of the late summer was the return of the prodigal son, Jason Dougan, to MVR-D.
"Jason has been with us before and his moto wins in the Maxxis at the start of the year proved that he can run at the front of the pack,” said Chamberlain.
"I'm sure we have not seen the best of him yet, and I think the Honda will suit his smooth riding style.”
Both Krestinov and Dougan will go for glory in the MX1 class, but MVR-D retains a prominent presence in MX2 with Bradley Pocock.
Chamberlain explained: "It is also important to us to have British riders in the team – after all, we are contesting the British championship for the British fans – and I'm really pleased to have signed Bradley.
"He has had really bad luck in recent years with injuries, but he is still young and I'm sure everyone will agree that, given an injury-free run, he is one of the fastest teenagers in the UK.
"Bradley will step-up to the adult ranks and race the MX2 Maxxis and Red Bull series for us.”
