KMR Kawasaki and Vauxhall add young gun Cowton to 2013 line-up KMR Kawasaki powered by Vauxhall (Northern Ireland dealers) have today announced that James Cowton is the latest rider to be signed by the fledgling outfit for 2013 with the youngster joining Jamie Hamilton and Connor Behan who were announced last month, in the new-look squad. Cowton joins the team on the back of an impressive 2012 season that saw him not only claim a dominant victory in the Lightweight Newcomers Manx Grand Prix but also claim a stunning 4th in the main Junior race where he posted a hugely impressive lap of 115mph. With strong results at the Southern 100 and Oliver’s Mount, Scarborough as well, it’s easy to see why the 21-year old is seen as one of the brightest young talents on the pure road racing scene. The Yorkshire rider will campaign a 650cc ER6 Kawasaki Supertwin for the team and will make his International debut at the North West 200 whilst also returning to the Manx Grand Prix. He will also be competing at the Southern 100 and Oliver’s Mount once more whilst selected Irish National road races have also been pencilled in. Speaking about the latest addition to the squad team principal Ryan Farquhar commented, “I’m delighted to welcome young James to the team and he’ll ensure we’ll have further presence at both the International and National road races during the course of 2013. His signing further highlights our team ethic of bringing on young riders and at just 21 years of age, he fits the bill perfectly. He’s already shown tremendous potential and the Supertwin will be the ideal machine for him to make his debut at the North West 200 and is sure to take him to strong results at all other meetings. I’m confident he’ll be a tremendous acquisition to the team and, alongside Jamie and Connor, we have three good, young riders who have everything in place to enjoy a successful 2013.” Cowton added; “To be joining the new KMR Kawasaki team is like a dream come true for me and a huge honour. I’ve really taken to the roads so far and that’s where I see my future so to have someone like Ryan guiding me is brilliant. His achievements over the years are staggering and I couldn’t wish for a better person to help and advise me whilst his bikes are always superb. Last year was a really good season for me and, with Ryan’s knowledge and expertise, I’m aiming to continue with my progression and make the most of this wonderful opportunity. When it comes to the Supertwin class he’s the master and I can’t wait to get out on the ER6!” Cowton’s first outing for the team will be at the Ian Watson Spring Trophy meeting at Oliver’s Mount on Sunday April 21st. More, from a press release issued by KMR Kawasaki Powered by Vauxhall: McCormack swells KMR Kawasaki ranks to four Just 24 hours after revealing James Cowton as their third rider for the 2013 season, KMR Kawasaki powered by Vauxhall (Northern Ireland dealers) have today announced that Brian McCormack will be joining the squad for a concerted attack on both the International and National road races. Former Irish Superbike and reigning Adelaide Masters Champion, McCormack has made good progress since switching his main attention from the short circuits to the roads and is now a regular at both the International and National road race meetings, enjoying strong results at both. Having found himself without a ride over the winter months, the 29-year old Waterford based rider is a strong addition to the team and will ensure further presence in the 1000cc classes when he competes on the machines that team principal Ryan Farquhar rode in 2012. McCormack is scheduled to contest all three Internationals – the Isle of Man TT, North West 200 and Ulster Grand Prix – as well as selected Irish National road races on both Superbike and Superstock ZX-10R Kawasakis. Speaking about the latest addition to the burgeoning squad, Farquhar commented, “I got talking to Brian at the recent Adelaide Awards night and when I found out he was without a ride, we started to put the wheels in motion. I’ve known him for a good few years now and had some good battles with him so I know what he’s capable of and we’ve put together a good package for the season. A rider of his calibre shouldn’t be on the sidelines and with his experience and my experience, I think we’ve got all the makings for a really strong season.” “He’s proven himself on the roads over the past couple of seasons and is going from strength to strength so I think we can help move him up to the next level and I’m very happy to have helped him get back on the grid for 2013. It’s good for all concerned to have a rider of his profile in the team and he’ll ensure we’ve got a really strong presence in the 1000cc classes, both at the International and, especially, the National road races.” McCormack added, “I’m delighted to be joining Ryan and his team and it’s a tremendous opportunity for me, one I intend to firmly grasp with both hands. I know how hard Ryan works and how meticulous he is in his preparation so I’m thrilled to be getting the chance to ride the bikes he’s won so much on. This will be my third full season on the roads and with Ryan’s knowledge, expertise, advice and machinery, I’m confident of improving even further and moving up the leaderboard considerably.” McCormack’s first outing for the team is expected to be the Cookstown 100 road races on Saturday April 28th