In the marvellous setting of Venice city displaying the wealth of the nineteenth century during the Carnival event, LCR Honda MotoGP Team have announced their racing project for 2011 season at the famous Venice Casino. On Friday night Team Manager Lucio Cecchinello and the new racer Toni Elias have welcomed many Team supporters and friends spending a fantastic soirée with music, dancing, masks, toasts, game and of course 2-wheel passion. The Venice Casino plays a leading role in supporting cultural events, pageants and historical festivals, sports and other initiatives promoted by the city of Venice and in the majesty of Sala del Caminetto LCR Team have displayed some of the bikes involved in 16 year of competitions including Honda RC212V no. 24 that the Moto2 World Champion will ride in the next 18 GPs. More than 170 guests have toasted to the new season beginning deepening the acquaintance of the Spanish rider who dispensed smiles and handshakes around together with his Team Manager and some crew members. In addition to the delicious Venetian food and champagne the diners have celebrated surrounded by the famous bunnies and the beautiful nineteenth century ladies, admiring the Burlesque show, playing at the gaming tables and dancing till the dawn at Palazzina Grassi in the unique Carnival atmosphere. Toni Elias: “I flew here from Barcelona with my mum and my dad and we were all surprised because the party was unique! Venice is a wonderful city and the event was incredible. I could feel the affection of the Team guests and I was very happy because I met them for the first time. I must thank Lucio and the team staff for their efforts because this party was a real success. On the stage I joked with Lucio about our past challenges when he was a 125cc rider and now he is my Boss! We are leaving for Qatar in a couple of days and I hope to return all this trust to Lucio, his Team and all the fans. It won’t be easy but I am very stubborn (Lucio knows my temper!) and the premier class already gave me several successes that’s why I am very confident”. Lucio Cecchinello: “First of all I want to thank all our guests for their affection because they have welcomed Toni and his family in the best way. Thanks to the precious support of Venice Casino we have realized a special party in a magnificent city and our guests could meet Toni appreciating his spontaneity like I do. I raced with him in the past and on track he is very tough (like the majority of the Spanish riders) so I am sure he will do his best using his experience. The Championship is approaching and there is a lot of work to do but we like the challenges and our passion for this sport is an incredible boost for me and the squad”.