Rizla ride for privateer

British Superbike Privateer Championship leader James Buckingham will race for Rizla Suzuki at the Grand National at Castle Combe this weekend alongside regular team rider James Haydon.

Buckingham, 21, has ridden a Suzuki GSX-R1000 in 2005 and his success has resulted in the opportunity to replace William Dunlop who will miss out on his scheduled ride after breaking his collarbone two weeks ago.

“This is a great opportunity for me to be part of a top team,” said Buckingham. “I’ve never ridden at Castle Combe before so it’s not going to be easy to get results. I learn quickly though and really want to show what I am capable of.”

He’ll partner James Haydon at the meeting. Regular rider John Reynolds will be at the event, but will not race as he prepares himself for the remainder of the British Superbike season.

For more on the Castle Combe Grand National which takes place on Sunday, July 31, 2005, see the related article, right.