Suzuki to Race AMA American Superbike

As of this afternoon we have released Blake from the second year of his 2008-09 contract with Team Hammer, says crew chief Keith Perry. This release was made at the request of American Suzuki. Following negotiations with them to continue American Suzukis support of our team, we came to this agreement.

American Suzuki has not formally announced its participation in the 2009 season. The team and its star rider Mat Mladin clashed with new AMA Pro Racing promoter Daytona Motorsports Group through the 2008 season, and after American Honda decided to withdraw from competition, there was speculation over whether Suzuki would follow.

In negotiation of Youngs release from Team Hammer (which races under the name Team M4 EMGO Suzuki), it is clear that Suzuki will compete in the AMA American Superbike class.

With this agreement, Blake will not compete against Team Hammer on a 600, he'll only compete in the American Superbike class, says Perry. Were sad to see him go but were happy that this is another young man who weve helped progress. Blake came in as somewhat of an unknown rider and now hes leaving with a lot of people thinking hes one of the hottest riders in the paddock. I feel like weve done a very good job with Blake and I know hes done a good job proving himself. Were going to enjoy watching his progression, just like weve done with many of our alumni that have gone on to do well.

Racing for Team M4 EMGO Suzuki in 2008, Young recorded his first career AMA victory at Road America. Young also recorded his first Supersport win at the season finale at Laguna Seca.

Young will replace the departed Ben Spies on American Suzuki. Spies signed with Yamahas World Superbike team after winning three AMA Superbike championships with American Suzuki. Mladins status has yet to be announced, but American Suzuki did sign Tommy Hayden to a two-year extension in December.

Team Hammer however will be looking ahead to find a replacement for Young. Jason DiSalvo rode for Team Hammer at a test session at Jennings GP in December.

Weve been very proud of our record finding and grooming talented racers like Blake. Were happy for him because we know hes taking the next step and weve done as much as we can to help that, says Perry. Now well just turn our attention to helping our other riders advance and we plan to make an announcement soon as to who the replacement might be.

Related Reading
Suzuki storms onward
Honda withdraws from AMA Road Racing