Former AMA Formula Xtreme champion and Daytona 200 winner Jake Zemke will be moving from his long-time Honda ride to the Michael Jordan Motor Sports-run National Guard Suzuki team for the 2010 season, according to an MJMS press release. Zemke will be paired with MJMS stalwart Aaron Yates, who will once again be running in the Michael Jordan Motor Sports colors. Both Zemke and Yates will be campaigning in the American Superbike class aboard Suzuki GSX-R1000s; this season will mark the return of Zemke to the superbike class, after several years of running in the AMA 600cc categories. The Paso Robles, California-based rider is getting his first ride on the Suzuki at the AMA test currently running at California Speedway today.
From the MJMS press release:
The National Guard and Michael Jordan Motor Sports will field an American Superbike entry piloted by 2008 Formula Xtreme Champion and the 2006 Daytona 200 Winner Jake Zemke in the 2010 AMA Pro Racing National Guard Superbike Championship series.
"We're extremely proud to welcome Jake Zemke to our organization," said Kreig Robinson, Michael Jordan Motor Sports Vice President of Corporate Relations. "It's not often that champions become available. We have always admired Jake. He's a fan favorite and always professional."
Zemke, 34, finished sixth overall in the 2009 Daytona Sportbike Championships, visiting the second step of the podium twice and making 14 top ten appearances. He is a native of California, and lives with his wife, Rebecca, and their three children, in Paso Robles.
MJMS is also pleased to announce its continued partnership with the National Guard to field a second AMA Pro Racing Superbike team in 2010. "The National Guard is excited and proud to continue its relationship with Michael Jordan Motor Sports. Jake Zemke is sure to bring a new dynamic to the team, as he will be a favored contender for the championship. He also carries with him the honor of representing over 360,000 members of the National Guard, faithfully serving our great nation," said Sgt. First Class John Metzler, National Guard Program Manager for the AMA Pro Racing Superbike program.
ABOUT THE NATIONAL GUARD:
The National Guard is the oldest component of the Armed Forces of the United States and one of the nation's longest enduring institutions. The National Guard operates in all 50 states, three territories (Puerto Rico, Guam and the Virgin Islands) and the District of Columbia. For more information, visit the National Guard's Web site at www.1-800-GO-GUARD.com.
ABOUT MICHAEL JORDAN MOTOR SPORTS:
Legendary NBA star Michael Jordan formed Michael Jordan Motor Sports in 2004 as a result of his passion for motorcycle racing. His mission is to bring a new level of excellence and style to the motorcycle racing industry.
Michael Jordan Motor Sports is proud to partner with: Jordan Brand (a division of Nike), American Suzuki, Upper Deck, Hanes, Gatorade, Bazzaz Performance, MMI - Motorcycle Mechanics Institute, Vortex Racing Components, Oakley, Gemini Racing, Ancra Tie-downs, Chicken Hawk Racing Tire Warmers, DID Chains, Factory Pro Dyno, NGK Spark Plugs, Performance Friction Brake Pads, Roclun International, STAR Motorcycle School, Zero Gravity Windscreens, with transportation provided by Eastside Trucking.