Team Suzuki Press Office – November 28. Tyco Suzuki’s Josh Brookes will make his Isle of Man TT debut next year with International road racer Guy Martin in the Northern Ireland-based team – although his main focus will remain on winning next season’s BSB title.
Brookes fell in love with the TT on his first visit in 2009, but having sampled the atmosphere around the TAS Racing-run Tyco Suzuki camp during ‘Race Week’ in 2011 and 2012 where Martin was a strong contender – and having participated in parade laps on the Mountain Course – the Australian now feels the time is right to put his name on the entry list.
Brookes, who is currently at his New South Wales home, said: “I’m glad it’s out in the open now as all the questions about whether I was going to ride or not – and not being able to say anything – was getting a bit tiring. Since making the decision, I’ve taken in some reconnaissance trips and spoken to a number of influential people. I fell in love with the place on my first visit back in 2009 and now that I’m with what I regard as the best team to be competing at the event with, it gives me peace of mind. It’s too early to be setting any goals. It’s the beginning of a new project and we’ll just see how it goes.”
Team Manager Philip Neill added: “As a team with a strong background in pure road racing I suppose it was inevitable that Josh would like to have a go at the TT. He will be one of the highest-profile newcomers to come to the TT in recent years, but I know it’s not a spare-of-the-moment idea; he has given it careful consideration. We won’t be expecting any miracle results and there is certainly no pressure on him. Our job is to use our experience and guide him to our best ability, but Josh is a sensible lad and BSB will remain his number one focus.”
