Australia’s ‘Road to MotoGP’ now open to expressions of interest.
Image: Russell Colvin.
Motorcycling Australia (MA) is seeking expressions of interest for riders aged 11 to under 16 to be considered for the 2021 Oceania Junior Cup (OJC) series.
The OJC Junior development program made its debut in 2019 and is Australia’s premier junior road racing academy, officially recognised by the FIM and Dorna Sports as part of the ‘Road to MotoGP’ program.
Riders are provided with a race-prepped Yamaha YZF-R15 bikes, equipped with Pirelli tyres, Ohlins suspension, RK chains, Motul oil, Ricondi Motorcycle Apparel leathers and gloves, AGV helmets, TCX boots, round entries, transportation of bikes, pre-event service of bikes, technical support, spare parts budget and OJC team uniform.
Riders competing in the 2021 championship will receive elite coaching to help develop their bike skills and technique, health and fitness, sportsmanship and off-track activities such as media and fan engagement.
The OJC, which is featuring as part of the 2020 Mi-Bike Australian Superbike Championship (ASBK) was also part of the Australian round of the Superbike World Championship (WorldSBK) and was scheduled to be a feature race at this year’s MotoGP at Phillip Island prior to its cancellation.
“Motorcycling Australia are committed to developing Australia’s junior talent on the Road to MotoGP, aimed at developing Australia’s next national talent and international champion,” said MA operations director Martin Port. “Our current riders come from a multitude of disciplines including road, speedway, motocross, enduro and dirt track.
“Every bike is identical – there are no haves and have nots in the OJC program. The racing is spectacular and victory comes down to a rider’s ability to get the most out of himself or herself, but winning isn’t everything in the OJC program. Our focus is the development of these juniors, both on and off the track. It’s about learning, developing as a rider and opening up opportunities.”
Dorna’s commitment has already seen OJC riders qualify for the 2020 Asia Talent Cup selection event and cements MA’s objective to develop clear pathways for junior road racers in the Oceania region. Additionally, selected riders from the OJC were provided the opportunity of participating in the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup selection event last year.
Expressions of interest applications are available at www.asbk.com.au.
Source: CycleOnline.com.au