From a press release issued by Alstare Suzuki through the World Superbike Championship press office:

Kats Leads The Charge

Round two of the 2003 Supersport World Championship takes place at the beautiful Phillip Island circuit in Australia. It is a spectacular setting and a track much loved by riders and spectators thanks to its fast, flowing nature. Team Alstare Suzuki rider Katsuaki Fujiwara is leading the championship after his superbly controlled win in the opening round and knows that it¹s going to be another hard-fought race. The Japanese rider is full of confidence after his victory and is looking forward to the race and extending his lead in the series. His team mate Stephane Chambon will be viewing Phillip Island in a different light and will be hoping to get his season off to a good start after missing the opening round due to injury.

Last year’s race was won by local hero Andrew Pitt (Kawasaki), with Piergiorgio Bontempi(Ducati) second and Chambon third. Fujiwara finished fourth, but will be hoping for another podium for sure.

KATSUAKI FUJIWARA

It’s good to be leading the championship – even though we’ve only had one race! Last year I was fourth at Phillip Island, so this year I will definitely be wanting a podium. It’s a great track, because it’s fast! But, I like all tracks – when I have good results – so I’m looking forward to a good result at Phillip Island this year. I will only be happy with a podium, but a win would be best of all.

STEPHANE CHAMBON

I was very disappointed not to be able to race at Valencia in the opening round, but very happy that my team won. My knee and back have all improved recently, but I’m not sure how my ribs are. I’ve had a good rest and now I’m looking forward to getting on the GSXR600 Suzuki and starting my season properly. Hopefully, all my injuries will be OK and I will be able to chase a good result.