MotoGP revs up at Tamworth Yamaha

Going out for a meal at your local motorcycle dealer maybe isn’t the norm but on Wednesday 22nd July this was the reality for customers of Tamworth Yamaha in Staffordshire. Owners Jonathan and Lisa King put on a celebration of all things MotoGP in aid of Riders, the charity which supports health workers in Africa ensuring they have reliable transport to distribute healthcare.

The seating and tables were laid out for 150 guests in the motorcycle showroom and with star attractions in the shape of James Ellison’s Airwaves Yamaha YZF-R1 and Niall McKenzie’s 1992 Yamaha YZR500 GP racer, the stage was set for a fantastic night’s entertainment.

First on the bill was James Toseland from Tech 3 Yamaha who gave his thoughts on the upcoming British round of MotoGP as well as his transition as a rider moving from World Superbikes to GP’s. The evening then took a musical turn as The Dreamettes, a local girl band, performed a selection of Motown hits while James signed autographs and posed for photos with fans.

After the musical interlude and hot on James’ heels was his team mate, American Colin Edwards. Interviewed by the BBC’s Steve Parrish, Colin chatted about his recent run of results as well as his admiration for his former team mate Valentino Rossi, who can do things on a bike that ‘simply aren’t possible’.

Following the interview, Colin met his legion of fans and The Dreamettes entertained once again while everyone settled down to enjoying a sumptuous two course meal.

It was then the turn of the British based racers in attendance as Steve Parrish interviewed James Ellison, Billy McConnell and Jon Kirkham about racing in British Superbikes and Supersport and quizzed team manager of Airwaves Yamaha Colin Wright, on his excellent recent run of results.

To close the evening an auction was held for the Riders charity and with star lots including a signed Valentino Rossi shirt supplied by Yamaha Motor UK and a BSB hospitality package provided by Pirelli and Airwaves Yamaha, the audience was at fever pitch. By the time the auction had concluded, over £5000 had been raised on behalf of Riders, the objective of the evening being met!

For further information, contact Jonathan or Lisa King at Tamworth Yamaha 01827 254994.