Stauffer & Hook to race Suzuka 8 Hour with Dream RT Sakurai Honda Team
Team Honda Racing riders Jamie Stauffer and Josh Hook are confirmed to compete in the 2013 Suzuka 8 Hour World Endurance Race as part of the Dream RT Sakurai Honda Team.
Stauffer who is a two-time Australian Superbike Champion is no stranger to the endurance required in the Suzuka 8 Hour. In 2012 the experienced Honda rider made a convincing assault spending much of the race in 4th position eventually crossing the line in 6th position for the Dream RT Sakurai Honda Team.
Looking forward to showing his team mate Josh Hook what he describes as a ‘special race’, Stauffer is positive ahead of the challenge; “I’m looking forward to the race, it will be good to get over there and to show Josh what it’s all about, it’s a really special race. I have some work to do to get my injuries in order before testing starts but I’m hoping for some good news and looking forward to the race.”
Up and coming rider, Josh Hook who is already making an impact in his rookie year of the Australian Superbike Championship is looking forward to the new challenge. Round three of the ASBK saw Hook achieve his first Superbike podium and it is clear he is planning to move quickly through the ranks of the field to challenge the front runners.
When asked about his expectations, Hook said “I really have no idea what to expect, it is such a big event and the race goes for such a long time that anything can happen! Testing will give us a good idea of where the bike is at and what kind of endurance is needed. I can’t wait to get over there, it’s going to be an awesome experience.”
Held annually at the Suzuka International Racing Course, the Suzuka 8 Hour tests riders’ endurance and skill at a circuit that is renowned for its complexity. The race runs for eight hours consecutively and teams are composed of two riders and one reserve.
The Suzuka 8 Hour is part of the FIM World Endurance Racing Championship and is regarded as one of the biggest motorsport events on the calendar in Japan. The race proceedings begin with testing in early July with the main event held on July 28, 2013.
