Jess Gardiner will campaign a Sherco in Europe and Australia during 2013.

Joining Geoff Ballard in 2013 as part of the Ballard’s Motorex Offroad Team is Australia’s top female off road rider, Jess Gardiner.

Gardiner competed with distinction in Europe in 2012 with a podium in the WEC (World Enduro Championship) and was the second fastest female rider in the ISDE in Germany last year. This success has fuelled her desire to pursue an international career in off-road racing.

Finding support to compete in Europe was vital and Geoff Ballard is pleased to announce that for 2013 Jess will be riding a 300cc four-stroke Sherco with assistance from the French factory for all the WEC rounds.

When in Australia, Jess will continue the partnership with Ballard’s Motorex on board the Sherco at the AORC, A4DE as well as many as possible state and local events.

For Geoff, the move to a multi-bike brand team means the opportunity to sample the best that is on offer and with Jess taking to the Sherco like a proverbial duck to water, the pair is confident it is a winning strategy.

“For me, this new team partnership is a great way to keep my interest in racing and to share my knowledge and support with someone as keen and as dedicated as Jess,” Ballard explained.

“I certainly know that this is a bit of a ‘different approach’ with so many different bikes and events planned for the one team. But hey, why be the same?

“It’s going to be an exciting and very different year – racing in Australia, Europe and the US. You never know what bike will be in the Ballard’s Motorex pit!”

Gardiner has her sights firmly focused on the WEC and is thrilled with the support being extended to her.

“Last year was a great learning experience and with the backing of the Sherco factory I know I can focus on competing to the best of my ability,” Gardiner said. “Having GB as a coach and mentor is an incredible opportunity and I can’t wait to get stuck into training. I’ve had a ride on the 300 and it is great!”

Locally Ballard’s Offroad has partnered with Motorex as naming rights sponsor. Metzeler and Scott continue their association having been teamed with Geoff since the early 80s.

“None of this would be possible without Geoff’s backing and his work behind the scenes,” Gardiner added. “It’s great to be back in a team with him again. Don at MOTO Central has been awesome with the Sherco and his assistance in getting the factory support in France.

“I’d also like to give a shout out to Motorex, Metzeler, InsureMyRide, KustomMX, Fox, Oakley, DID, Talon, Force, Gem MX, Triple XXX, Pro Grip, GoPro and Factory Spec.”

The first official outing for the Ballard’s Motorex Offroad team will be rounds one and two of the AORC at Buladelah on 16-17 March.