Shropshire’s world class motorcycle racing champion Michael Rutter has set out on his challenging 2013 season with the backing of Global Freight.
The company name and logo are emblazoned on the leathers of Michael ‘The Blade’ Rutter, from Bridgnorth, as he takes on the famous Isle of Man TT races, the Endurance World Championships and the whole of the MCE British Superbikes season.
He is part of the Honda TT Legends squad, riding alongside other top road racers and fellow TT winners, John McGuinness and Michael Dunlop, for the Isle of Man TT, North West 200 and World Endurance races, as well as partnering hard-charging Tommy Bridewell in the Bathams Honda team for BSB.
Global Freight managing director, Nicole Howarth, said: “We have built a close association in recent years with the world of motorcycle sport, both as a sponsor and as a supplier of logistical support, but I think this chance to support Michael is the most exciting relationship yet.
“As a multiple winner of Isle of Man TT races, the record holder at the Macau road races with eight wins and 13 North West 200 titles under his belt, along with many more accolades, he is one of the true legends of British road racing – and that’s even before we consider his amazing successes in British Superbikes, which is the most competitive national championship in the world. This season he was the first rider to notch up 400 race starts in that series! Not forgetting that he’s also a Shropshire lad.
“Michael is one of the most popular characters on the racing circuit. We are going to be following his season with interest and are proud to be a part of his campaign.”
Michael explained his high hopes for another successful season: “We have a hectic schedule this year but I am looking forward to getting back on Honda machinery, which I will have for all three disciplines – that means I will be consistent across BSB, World Endurance and the roads too.
“The ongoing support of our sponsors makes it possible for us to go racing and I’m really pleased to have the backing of Global Freight behind me this year, alongside a loyal line-up of existing sponsors. I’m really buzzing about this season and hoping to do everyone proud.”
This racing season for Michael Rutter stretches from April to November, involving a total of 43 races at venues around the world, reaching a potential TV audience of almost 70 million viewers and including TV interviews with Michael, as a long-time member of the various paddocks who is popular with the media.
Among the challenges facing him will be the defence of his double championship titles of 2011 and 2012 in the Zero Emission TT on the Motoczysz electric bike – a category in which he also holds the Isle of Man lap record.