Checa looks to AMA in 2010

Carlos Checa made an impressive return to form in America by securing his first podium of 2009 in race one.

The Spaniard looked set for another strong result in race two having shown a strong race pace, but lost any chance of pushing American Ben Spies for the win when he crashed out of third position on lap four.

Having won both races at the Miller Motorsports circuit 12 months ago, Checa clearly has an affinity with the American circuit, which has led to him making the surprise revelation that he’s considering series switch in 2010.

After securing his debut 2009 podium, Checa said:

“We need to understand why we are so fast here. Maybe I should stay here. I like America

Honestly one year here would not be a problem. Laguna Seca is my favourite track, Miller is good but I hear that the rest of the tracks are very dangerous. Everything else about America I like, the cycling, the training, the climbing.

“Maybe this could be a good way for me in the future. It would be an easier life where I could enjoy racing and life outside of racing. It could be an option. After many years racing it could be a good lifestyle.”

Like his team-mates Jonathan Rea and Ryuichi Kiyonari, Checa spent the opening rounds struggling with the harsh power delivery of the Ten Kate Honda. Now at mid point of the season the bike is clearly working better for all three riders.

He said:

“In Kyalami the bike was better. We made some changes to the engine braking and my feeling was better. We made changes to the setting of the bike and now I have a much stronger feeling.

“At the beginning of the year we changed so many things but nothing worked and the lap times did not come. Then I got injured in Australia and I carried the injury to Qatar and Valencia. I had a problem at Assen with my arm because we changed the throttle and we just never found our rhythm.

“We started the year thinking we could fight for the title But for sure we did not start the year at the right level. We were too far away from Ducati and Yamaha and we all went a little bit crazy.

“We tried to find something that wasn’t there. Now everything is good and we also have a test in Magny Cours (One day test all three riders on 15th June). We will work on the chassis side and we will see if we can make another step forward.

“Now being at the front is a much better feeling. For me it makes no sense to stay here fighting for tenth position, this is not what I am here for. The team has a good level of understanding and I appreciate that.

“They give me good support and everyone takes responsibility. I take my responsibility because I know I have not been at 100%. The championship is tough but we are growing up and we will see what we can get from now.”