From a press release issued by Chris Vermeulen’s publicist and manager:

YOUNG AUSSIE GOES NUMBER 1 WITH HONDA

Australian Chris Vermeulen has announced today, that he will be the number one World Supersport Honda rider in 2003, after signing with the highly successful Ten Kate Racing team.

The 20-year-old is making the step up from Ten Kate’s satellite team, Van Zon Honda, to join the European Honda backed set up. Vermeulen is the first rider to sign with the team for next year.

“I am just so excited. I can’t wait to start with the Ten Kate guys. The Van Zon bikes have been great, but I know moving up to the fully factory supported Ten Kate will be a huge opportunity,” Vermeulen said.

Speaking from Belgium, the Queenslander added: “When the offer was made, I was over the moon. Without a doubt it’s the best ride in World Supersport. The bikes are so close you need every advantage and the Ten Kate Hondas are always quick.

“Gerrit Ten Kate (Team Owner) is getting four 2003 CBRs in October, so we’ll start testing in November,” Vermeulen commented.

The talented rising star had some talks with the Castrol Honda Superbike team, but has elected to spend one more year in the 600cc class.

“Castrol Honda are still not sure what is happening for next year. They don’t know who will be riding for them, so I had this contract and I didn’t want to let it go. Gerrit (Ten Kate) has been very good to me and gave me a great chance this year, but next year is going to be big.”

It’s going to be a busy few months for Chris. Three races to finish the 2002 world championship season and then a high profile ride in a Super Moto in Belgium.

“It’s raced on dirt and bitumen. I’ll ride a Honda XR650 with road tyres. It should be fun. I am in training for the race, they say about 50,000 people show up to watch and there’s a couple of world motocross champions in it as well,” an excited Chris said.

Vermeulen will return to Australia for a short break after the Belgium race before beginning testing with his new team.