James Rispoli To Daytona SportBike With Celtic
Cycle News Staff | January 21, 2013
Photography By: Andrea Wilson
Two-time AMA Supersport James Rispoli will move up to the AMA Daytona SportBike class in 2013 with the National Guard Celtic Racing team after Michael Jordan Motorsports announced today that it has renewed its association with both the Army National Guard and Celtic Racing.
Corey Alexander, who will race another season in the AMA Supersports class, will join Rispoli on the team.
With Rispoli set to make his debut in the Daytona 200 in March, 2013 will also mark the first time that Michael Jordan Motorsports has taken part in the historic race.
“I am so excited to be moving up to Daytona SportBike and riding for the National Guard Celtic Racing team,” said Rispoli, who won eight races en route to the 2012 Supersport title. “Coming off two championship-winning seasons in AMA Pro SuperSport, I know the step up in class means even more hard work and dedication. To make sure I’m ready, I’ve been training harder and smarter than ever before. I can hardly wait for the season’s kick-off at the Daytona 200.”
Team owner Barry Gilsenan will again manage the National Guard Celtic Racing team.
“After a successful 2012 season, I am very happy to announce our continued relationship with Michael Jordan Motorsports and the National Guard,” said Gilsenan. “We appreciate their continued support and are looking forward to further success. We’re pleased that our lineup will remain unchanged for 2013, and we have really enjoyed working with Corey and James over the last year. I am confident that we are prepared to meet the challenges that 2013 will present.”
Alexander, meanwhile, is returning from a broken leg. Despite missing the final round of the series, he still managed to finish fifth in the 2012 series point standings.
“After having an early end to 2012 with my injury, I can certainly say there is nothing I look forward to more than getting back aboard my National Guard Celtic Racing Suzuki GSX-R600 for the 2013 season,” said Alexander. “To have the opportunity to represent the men and women of the National Guard for a third time is a huge honor. I have really high expectations for myself this coming season and I’ve been spending all of my time getting back in shape after this injury. Now I’m just looking forward to racing again.”
