Viking Group has been revealed as the title sponsor of the 2010 Australian Superbike Championship by series promoter International Entertainment Group this morning.

Just three weeks out from the season opener Viking has been confirmed as the official replacement of Woodstock Bourbon as the naming rights sponsor of the series, the transport and logistics company increasing its support of the series after being involved with Perth Freightlines during 2009.

IEG director Yarrive Konsky is confident that the 2010 championship will deliver great racing and an opportunity for growth to all that are involved.

“Viking has witnessed growth in popularity throughout the 2009 season,” Konsky said. “They were involved as a logistics partner through their Perth Freightlines division last year and I am excited that they see value in coming on board as the naming rights sponsor through their parent company Viking Group.

“It’s extremely important that we have a trusted logistics partner. We have hundreds and thousands of dollars worth of product being transported to every round and the timely and protected delivery of our products and equipment are crucial to the running of the championship. Viking is our trusted partner and a valuable sponsor and we look forward to the 2010 championship.

“Over one million motorcycles have been sold in Australia over the past 15 years and each and every year that figure grows. There are well over half a million registered motorcycles in Australia and the sport of racing motorcycles has well over 18,000 licensed competitors.”

Viking Group Pty Ltd is an Australian transport, logistics and related services company which is privately owned and operated, and provides premium services to its client base across Australia. The organisation commenced operations in 1979 in Altona, Melbourne as a specialised heavy vehicle tyre supply and fitting service.

The business grew initially with provision of heavy vehicle maintenance services, in addition to tyre supply and fitting services. From the mid 1980s growth accelerated with the introduction of Viking Group’s own transport fleet. The Group has continued to grow both via expanding existing operations as well as acquisition.

Today, Viking employs over 250 people across Australia and has a turnover of over $100 million. It is currently comprised of seven Divisions, providing a range of services within the Australian transport sector including Viking Fleet Service, Viking Transport and Logistics, Viking Towing and Salvage, Perth Freight Lines, Viking Express and Viking Timber.

Director of Viking Group, Steve Iliopoulos, is excited what the future holds for the championship and motorcycling in general in Australia.

“I have always been an avid fan of motorcycling and motorcycle racing,” explained Iliopoulos. “I have a collection of motorcycles and my kids raced for 15 years. The opportunity to get behind the championship is one I welcome and take extremely seriously. Motorcycling in Australia is a sport that is enjoyed by racers, recreational users and commuters and continues to grow.

“Viking’s business has grown considerably in the past 5 years, we now cover a broader range of transport, distribution and warehousing solutions and can cater for new business. By taking the naming rights to the Australian Superbike Championship we endeavor to reach new clients and attract further business – all whilst we enjoy a sport that everyone at Viking is passionate about.”

The 2010 Viking Australian Superbike Championship commences at round one of the Superbike World Championship at Philip Island on 27-28 February.

For further information on the ASBK go to www.asbk.com.au, or for information on the new championship naming rights sponsor go to www.vikingtransport.net.au.