On the eve of the final round of the 2011 MCE British Superbike Championship, Bike Interceptor Yamaha by Seton announced the signing of all three current riders for the 2012 campaign.
Sam Warren has proved himself as a front runner in the hotly contested Fuchs-Silkolene British Supersport class, scooping a race win at Knockhill and three podiums ahead of Brands Hatch, and he is currently the highest placed Yamaha rider in the Championship. The 29-year old from Swanwick in Derbyshire will once again become a force to be reckoned with in 2012 as he sights his sights firmly on the Supersport number 1 plate.
"Myself, all my family and all my personal sponsors are very happy to continue with the Bike Interceptor Yamaha by Seton team for next year," Warren said, "Having weighed up a few options we decided that being with this team was our best option for next season. I believe that we can step it up next year and be genuine title contenders, thats our aim."
Australian riders, Ben Burke and Andy Lawson have both faced a baptism of fire this season in their first foray into the fiercely competitive Metzeler National Superstock 600 series. Making the trans-globe trips from NSW and Queensland respectively, both riders have settled into the team admirably this season, learning to gel with the Yamaha YZF-R6 machinery, new personnel new circuits and a British way of life.
Ben, currently running in 8th, won the opening encounter of the season at Brands Hatch Indy circuit and will look to make good use of track knowledge learned this year as he makes a serious charge for the title in 2012.
"I'm really happy to be signing for Bike Interceptor Yamaha by Seton for 2012," Burke said, "I've had a really enjoyable year with the team, we've got on well and worked hard to develop the bike and get good results. We'll benefit next season from having learned the tracks this year, and will be looking to move forward with the team in 2012."
Andy Lawson joined the team mid-way through the season as the series headed north to Knockhill. Although the 18-year old has been racing 'blind' at new circuits every round, Andy has shown great aptitude for fast learning, providing great feedback to the team and scoring points in back-to-back races at Silverstone and Donington Park.
Lawson said, "I'm really pleased to be able to announce that I will be racing with Bike Interceptor Yamaha by Seton in 2012. We have made some great progress with the bike and I've built a strong relationship with the team. I've been learning the tracks this year, which is a great bonus ahead of challenging for honours next season."
All three riders will be in contention for points again this weekend as the 2011 season draws to a climax at Brands Hatch GP circuit, Kent. Sam will be looking to at least consolidate his fifth position, and highest placed Yamaha rider, as the Supersport riders do battle over three races, whilst Ben and Andy look to maintain a recent run of excellent point-scoring form.
Team Managaer, Phil Seton, said, "The whole Seton Tuning team is delighted to announce the signing of Sam, Ben and Andy for the 2012 season. 2011 had been our best season to date with wins and podium finishes in both classes. The continuation of this winning formula will catterpault our team to the next level for the 2012 championship where I expect us to be front runners in both classes from the beginning and championship contenders at the end. Right now we couldn't be happier."
