Andrew Pitt Reflects On 2009 Season Ups and Downs
Australian Hannspree Ten Kate Honda rider and dual World Supersport Champion Andrew Pitt has finished sixth in the 2009 World Supersport championship after a tough 2009 season.
Gear selection problems and suspension issues meant Andrew struggled to finish the season finale at Portimao, Portugal, where the dual World Champ lost
his title to Crutchlow after crossing the line in 11th position.
Despite not retaining his World Championship Crown, Pitt was satisfied that he gave it 110 per cent, as always, throughout the season.
“I have to admit it, I’m actually happy that this season is over and to be honest I have forgotten it and I’m already 100 per cent focused on winning races in my chosen championship in 2010. My goal is to get on a competitive machine and win races..
“2009 has been tough for me.. Early in the year we were on a roll and unstoppable on the 2008 Championship winning machine. I was leading the championship at Valencia but things turned around quickly when the 2009 machine arrived. At the same time we lost some support from our suspension supplier and I had a fresh rookie crew looking after my bike. I lost my 2008 crew to Carlos Checa.
“Although my 2009 crew put in a very solid effort all year unfortunately we did not have the machinery to win or challenge at the front this year.
“I had to override the bike every round and suffered numerous crashes as a result.
“Mid season the team switched to Ohlins suspension and struggled to learn the new suspension. They were thrown in the deep end and I do thank them for the huge effort they put in all season. We could not have tried any harder.
“I would also like to thank Kenan for being such a fantastic teammate. Kenan was always happy to help me pull a good lap if we were struggling and always open for discussions on setting up the bike. He rode harder than anyone in the series this year. The way he rode that bike was amazing and I take my hat off too him.
My friends and family have also been very supportive and my sponsors – particularly Milspec Services who have been with me since day one and always supportive. Also Sidi, Premier, RST and Rapid Bikes Magazine and particularly to Ten Kate for giving me the opportunity to win my second World Championship”
Andrew also feels that Cal Crutchlow is a deserving winner of the championship after a very successful year on the R6.
“Crutchlow is a very strong competitor. Yamaha tested at all the tracks in the lead up to the races and were strong all year. Well done to Cal for the championship.”
Andrew is now considering options and expects to make an announcement shortly regarding the 2010 season.
Andrew will make the trip to Perth for the “Kings of Wanneroo” weekend and spend Christmas in Australia, where he’ll relax with family and friends in his hometown of Kempsey, NSW, and in Port Macquarie, NSW.
“I’m looking forward to playing some cricket and to dragging the jet ski out for some R&R and also enjoying a few cold ones in my local. However, I’ll be
working hard on my “Specialized” bicycle to keep the fitness up for 2010.
“Thanks to all of my fans and to the media for ongoing support this year.”
