Martin Barr talks new deal and 2019 – ‘I still feel there is a British Motocross Championship title in me’
As reported a few weeks ago, Martin Barr has joined Jake Shipton on the Crescent Yamaha team and the pair – who both had to deal with some tough times this season – are looking ahead to 2019.
“I’m excited to take on this new challenge with Crescent Yamaha,” said Martin. “I’ve been doing this game a long time now and the way that Paul [Denning – Crescent Yamaha MD] and I have got on from day one has been fantastic.
“As Crescent and Yamaha have all the same goals in mind, I want to go out and promote the new 2019 YZ250F as best as I can. I still feel there is a British Motocross Championship title in me and that will be my main focus to go out and win that as well as [the] MX Nationals. I’m just really looking forward to getting the season under way and seeing how we pan out!”
As Yamaha UK’s officially-supported team, Jake will be responsible for the marque’s MX1 results next year.
“I’m looking forward to 2019 with Crescent Yamaha, especially after a difficult year,” he said. “I’m glad to stay involved with Yamaha, as well as continue my partnership with Crescent. I really appreciate all the support from the whole team.
“With a strong structure around me I’m ready to work hard to get a solid winter under my belt on the new 2019 YZ450F. Yamaha has made some really good changes to the bike and I can’t wait to get started and open the gas for 2019!”
Martin and Jake will contest the Maxxis ACU British Motocross Championship along with the Michelin MX Nationals series.
“It is a pleasure to announce the new Crescent Yamaha MX team with championship-winning rider Martin Barr and growing talent Jake Shipton,” said Paul Denning. “Crescent has always had a passion for racing and MX has always been part of my life and that of many staff members.
“It feels like a natural step to put together a professional team, given Crescent’s history and experience in professional racing as well as our strong relationship with Yamaha. Our off-road involvement sits firmly alongside our partnerships with Yamaha in the WorldSBK Championship and our successful street bike and off-road dealership.
“We are very excited about working with Martin in MX2 – a consummate professional and a rider who always delivers results – and also helping Jake to reach the next level in MX1. One thing we don’t need to worry about is the bikes – the 2019 YZF models are a huge step forward.”
