Yamaha Factory Racing is embarking on the final fly away of the 2011 season, a gruelling double header kicking off with Phillip Island this weekend and followed by Sepang a week later.
The stunningly beautiful Phillip Island circuit with it’s sweeping and flowing nature has a reputation for unpredictable weather, providing challenging conditions including heavy rain, cold temperatures and high winds for the MotoGP riders to overcome. Reigning World Champion Jorge Lorenzo has claimed two 250cc Grand Prix victories and one MotoGP rostrum at the Australian track. The Mallorcan will be looking for any opportunity to close the current 40 point gap to championship leader Casey Stoner with just three races remaining of the season.
Ben Spies is no stranger to Phillip Island, the Texan kicked off his rookie World Superbike campaign there with a race win in 2009 from pole position and enjoyed a strong performance as a MotoGP rookie in 2010. Last year’s race saw Spies start from the front row alongside 2011 Yamaha team mate Lorenzo, finishing a respectable fifth and claiming the 2010 Rookie of the Year title.
Jorge Lorenzo:
“I am now heading to Australia after a few days of training in Indonesia. I’m looking forward to riding at the Phillip Island circuit, it’s one of my favourites and probably the most beautiful track we race on. After the race in Japan, where we had a positive result, we are really determined to be on the podium again. We know it's not going to be easy because Casey is usually invincible on his home track, but I will try my best and won’t give up!”
Ben Spies:
“Phillip Island is such a great circuit to ride; I’ve got great memories there from my time in World Superbike and also last year where we had a really good race. We had yet another unlucky break in Japan but still managed to deliver a good ride, so we’ll take the positives from that and give it 100% this weekend and see what we can do. I’ve been relaxing here in Australia for a few days, so I’m fully fit, refreshed and ready for it!”
Press release courtesy of the Yamaha Factory Racing Team
