[Racer Duck]

Woodstock Honda Thor Racing has today announced an exciting, new deal to compete on Michelin tyres in an all-out campaign to reclaim the Australian Motocross and Supercross Championships in 2008 and beyond.

The Honda-Michelin relationship has enjoyed great success in the past, with the French tyre brand carrying Craig Anderson to Honda's most recent national motocross title victory in 2006.

"Honda has previously enjoyed a successful association with Michelin in the off-road racing arena and we are delighted to renew the relationship this season," Tony Hinton, General Manager, Honda Motorcycles said. "As with all of our team partners, Michelin's vast racing experience and race-proven product will be an important element in realising the Woodstock Honda Racing's championship aspirations."

Established in 1889, Michelin made its first racing appearance in 1891 and tasted victory immediately when Charles Terron won the longest non-stop bicycle race ever held; Paris-Brest return (1,200 km). For well over a century, Michelin has continued winning in numerous racing disciplines on all ground surfaces and has the expertise to match Honda's global success.

"As a company, we are very happy to have two market leaders back together, striving for greater results and growth," David Bacher, Oceania Two Wheel Manager, Michelin said. "Michelin is committed to an extended sponsorship with the Woodstock Honda Thor Team and we believe we have the tyres to deliver results worthy of such a powerhouse combination."

In addition to product excellence, Michelin's technical know-how will be invaluable to the development of the Woodstock Honda Thor race program.

"I'm extremely confident in using Michelin rubber; they are the championship winning tyres of the 2007 Australian Motocross and Supercross series so they're certainly race-proven," Woodstock Honda Thor Racing Team Manager, Brad McAlpine said. "Michelin has great technical resources and support for us to draw on, particularly if we decide to compete in any events overseas, and I believe they'll be a big asset to the team."

Entering a new era for the Woodstock Honda Thor Racing with Team Principal, Yarrive Konsky recently taking the helm, the largest motocross outfit in the country is looking forward to a return to the top of Australian off-road racing.

"Michelin tyres have a proven track record and we are obviously excited about the possibilities of our combined expertise," Yarrive Konsky said. "The year ahead is exciting and we are looking forward to the season opener, the Supercross Summer Nationals in mid February."