Toseland backs youth sport campaign

Added on Tuesday, February 24th, 2009 by Carole Nash Editor | No Comments

James Toseland has called upon the government to help uncover the next British MotoGP star and encourage motorcycle sport for young people in the UK.

Toseland, currently the only British rider in MotoGP, has teamed up with the Motorcycle Sport Political Strategy Group (MPS), a joint venture from the Auto Cycle Union (ACU) and MCI to promote all forms of motorcycle sport as a means of engaging with young people and encouraging the growth of motorcycling and competitive racing.

And the two-time World Superbike champion believes that encouraging the sport at grass roots level could help to uncover the next British Grand Prix superstar.

“If I didn’t have the opportunity to start my motorcycling career at Bracken Rocks as a child, it is unlikely that I would still be fortunate enough to be representing my country in MotoGP,” said Toseland.

“The amount of support that I receive from the British fans is incredible and is indicative of the country’s level of interest in motorcycle sport.

“In general, we tend to start our two-wheel careers much later than other European countries – a disadvantage on the world stage – so the suggestion that the Government would like to add further barriers is incomprehensible.

“It astounds me that I frequently hear criticism of British youth and a developing yob culture, but at the same time the Government insists on removing opportunities that could help to provide focus and discipline in a fun environment. I wish the MPS the best of luck with their campaign.”

MPS, which has grown largely from its support for off-road venues across the UK, intends to provide a common lobbying voice with the aim of securing support from Parliamentarians and the Government for motorcycle sport activities.

“The ACU is pleased to once again be working with our friends from the Motorcycle Industry in this important initiative for the future of our sport,” said Dave Luscombe, ACU Business Development manager. “I am also happy to have the support of one of Britain’s biggest sporting stars – James Toseland – behind the MPS. He finished fourth in the BBC Sports Personality of the Year in 2007 and that graphically shows just how popular James and motorcycle sport are to the public.”

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