Balls and All Media press release:

Fresh from winning the first round of the Australian Championship at Symmons Plains in Tasmania over the weekend, Rookie 125GP rider Andrew Lawson has received a massive boost, picked to ride in the prestigious and cut throat Spanish Championship.

The Queenslander will pilot British rider, Scott Redding’s 2008 World Championship bike in the 7 round series, giving him the perfect opportunity to continue his speedy rise up the world standings.

“It’s a great opportunity for me and it will be a very steep learning curve, but I just want to go over there and learn as much as I can.” Lawson said.

Late last year Lawson was selected to ride in the Rookies Cup in the United States, but when the series fell over due to the economic crisis, the sixteen year olds international debut was put on hold.

“To be picked in that series was a dream, but when it got cancelled because of the economic situation, I was very disappointed. I tried not to dwell on it too much and stay positive about my chances in the Australian Championship. Now I will get to race on both sides of the world.”

As many teams around the world look for the next Casey Stoner, Lawson will be the only Australian in the series and will be a satellite rider for the high profile Blusens – BQR team.

“BQR has about 15 years heritage in world class racing. They’ve won the last two Spanish Championships and they have brought countless riders through the ranks to eventually ride at the highest level. They are an incredibly professional team and one of the biggest players in bike racing.” commented Ben Reid, who will act as Andrew’s engineer while in Spain.

Reid was instrumental in pulling the deal together and has no doubt about the talented pilot.

“I personally think he won’t waste the opportunity. I actually think he will surprise some people. To be honest I wasn’t sure how competitive he would be early on, but after seeing him ride on Saturday I now have no doubt about his class. He will impress.  I think with the memories of the Rookies Cup disappointment he’s not prepared to let any chance pass him by.”

While Lawson rides a K1 Racing prepared Honda in the Australian series for the Champions Ride Days Team, he will need to come to terms with an Aprillia in the Spanish series.

“They say the bikes are a bit different to ride, so that’s just another thing to learn for me.” Lawson commented.

“I’d just like to thank KLS Racing and BQR for this wonderful opportunity to further my career, and I can’t wait to keep the Champions Ride Days Honda on top of the standings in Australia.”

Lawson will make the first of many trips to Europe from his Brisbane home next Monday, in time for the first round of the championship at Albacente on April 19.

Andrew has also passed on his best wishes to Judd Greedy’s family, after the 29 year old was killed in a tragic accident at Symmons Plains on Sunday. Andrew and his family had a lot of affection, respect and admiration for the Supersport rider and have been deeply saddened by his passing.