WSBK riders ‘start their engines’ at San Marino The programme for the eighth round of the HANNspree World Superbike Chanpionship which takes place at Misano World Circuit this weekend, officially got underway this morning with an unusual parade of Superbike machinery in the streets of the Republic of San Marino. Before hundreds of tourists, five racing Superbikes plus three road-bike equivalent versions, ridden by the top riders in the championship, covered a few hundred yards of the streets of the historic centre of the Republic, arriving in front of the Government Palace in Piazza della Libertà, where several bikes will also be on display until Sunday in the Superbike Expo. The presence of Max Biaggi, Michel Fabrizio, Carlos Checa, Chris Vermeulen, Leon Haslam, James Toseland, Jonathan Rea and Ruben Xaus also attracted the interest of the captains-regent (the heads of state), who appeared on the balcony of the Government palace to admire the parade of bikes from above. In a short press conference the Secretary of State for Sport and Tourism Fabio Bernardi who welcomed the riders, the media and Stefano Giannini (Mayor of Misano), Umberto Trevi (vice President of the Santamonica circuit) and Paolo Ciabatti (Superbike World Championship Director) underlined the importance of the Misano WSBK round, which was considered by the San Marino government exponent to be “the championship for true fans”. Alfa Romeo Giulietta Beach Volley Contest: In line with the traditional ‘summer holiday’ nature of the San Marino Round, this year championship sponsor Alfa Romeo, together with Infront Motor Sports, will be organizing a Giulietta Beach Volley Contest, scheduled for Thursday 24 June at Frankie Chili’s ‘Lido Romina’ (Bagni 8 & 9) beach at Misano Adriatico at 6pm. The event, backed by Virgin Radio, will see a line-up of teams of professional female volleyball players, riders, team managers and media, as well as the participation of a rock band and a Happy Hour for refreshments.