Dean Thomas, Road Racing troubadour and one of the most consistent performers in the current crop of Australian stars racing overseas, is without a seat for 2003.

Dean's career has followed many paths, first tasting the spoils of Australian Supersport glory, winning the coveted title in '94, before campaigning a Factory Honda RC45 the following year. Trying his hand on foreign soils has seen Thomas race both in the World Supersport series, and of late, as a front runner in the professional ranks of British Superbike competition.

Dean had been looking forward to racing again for the Dienza Ducati team run out Yorkshire England, who with 2 Testastretta Ducatis at their disposal, were ready for 2003 action. However - 'the best laid plans of mice & men go oft astray' has seldom rung truer than now for Dienza and their sole rider, as their major sponsor has reneged on the deal and about faced with the cash.

Sadly, this has left Dean without a ride, and with a fortnight until the first race, also left him out of time to explore the many other offers (both UK based & abroad) that were tendered to him earlier in the annual negotiation periods.

This is indeed a bitter blow for the talented and instantly likeable Port Macquarie racer, who with number 1 fan and wife Caren, will be attending the opening round of the series at Silverstone with leathers packed and helmet at the ready should anything materialize at the eleventh hour.

Dean Thomas in action during 2002