From a press release issued by Rich Oliver:

Perry Melneciuc joins Team Oliver Yamaha for 2002 Season.

Perry Melneciuc has signed on to race with Rich Oliver in the 2002 AMA 250 GP Championship. Perry finished in 4th place in this year’s Championship, on his own self-tuned and standard TZ250 Yamaha. Perry is looking to improve upon that fine result in the upcoming season.

“It’s a big step for my career and my racing skills to team with Rich,” said an excited Perry from Auberry, CA. “I have learned so much already just from following his intensive training regiment that I can’t wait to get on my Yamaha road racer and go for a podium finish next March at Daytona!”

Rich Oliver has been observing the Melneciuc’s racing program all season, and was very impressed with both Perry and his wife Kellee’s efforts. States Rich, “Perry and Kellee work really well together as a team, and have really displayed the dedication and determination that is so necessary to be successful in this type of racing. I’m looking forward to having them both bring those qualities to Team Oliver Yamaha next season.”

As far as next year’s program, all Rich can release at this point is that the team will feature four super-fast Yamaha TZ250s, a new tow vehicle, a new 36′ trailer, a new 4-bay tent and floor, and all new tables and pit equipment, all in exciting new colors and graphics.

But most importantly, the team will retain current Crew Chief Robert Ward next year on a full-time basis. Sean Edin will also return as the team’s Trainer, and OMS Limited will continue as the team’s marketing agency. With the addition of Perry and Kellee Melneciuc, Rich comments, “This is by far the most talented and driven group of people that I have ever assembled on the team, and I’m sure it will lead to great results in next year’s Championship season.”

Exciting new sponsorship of Team Oliver Yamaha will be announced shortly.