Underdog show pedigree

The event took place at VC Racing, Telford, and saw an action-packed day including an appearance from the ‘Lost Boys' road-bike stunt team who entertained the crowds. 

 

Also on hand were team sponsors Battery Energy, who quenched everyone's thirst with free samples.

 

The Shropshire-based team is planning an assault on most of the UK's premier motocross series, including the Maxxis MXY2, Red Bull Elite Youth Cup, AMCA National Championships, the British Masters and the British Youth Nationals (formerly known as the BYMX) series.

 

The team includes some of the most promising riders from Shropshire and the West Midlands.

 

However chasing the chequered flag is not the only objective of the team according to manager Kirk Owen.

 

"Underdog Racing is about discovering raw talent and taking riders as far as their ambition and talent lets them,” said Owen.

 

"For most riders it is impossible to race at the highest level unless they provide significant financial backing. 

 

"Our aim is to give promising amateurs who do not have that luxury the same opportunity. Both our main team and supported riders have the chance to progress on merit and we welcome applications from any rider who wishes to join us on our rider support scheme and be part of the team in 2012.”

 

The team recently agreed a support package with Dutch youngster Teun Den Multer, who will contest the Dutch national series in Underdog livery. And the team launch attracted plenty of supporters, riders and local race fans. 

 

Of particular interest was exclusive team and casual clothing available to the public, along with the ‘Pay and Display' rider support scheme, which allows any rider to join the team. 

 

This offers all sorts of benefits, along with the chance to be fast-tracked to the main Underdog team. Despite only starting during 2011, the team has already attracted a large array of sponsors including VC Racing, Battery Energy, J4M54, Motul and GoldenTyre.

 

Owen's ambition is to field a professional team in the 2013 Maxxis British Championship, and he is hoping his existing riders can make the step up to the highest level "I've been amazed with just how much people have bought into the team's ethos,” he added.

 

"To field a professional race team will undoubtedly be a big step up, but nothing compared to what's already been achieved. 

 

"I just want our riders to give their all, but crucially enjoy the sport as that's what motocross is all about.”