Honda features strongly in both the official Open and Lites Teams with ‘Ando’ being joined in the

premier class by fellow red rider, Lee Ellis as well as Daniel McCoy who is representing Australia

as a reserve in his debut ride at the event.

Cameron Taylor and Lewis Stewart will represent Australia in the Lites division as seasoned

Honda riders, with both having much needed prior Oceania experience gained at the 2005 event.

Recent Australian Junior Champion Luke Arbon and Josh Cachia (reserve) will also fly the flag for

the manufacturer as well as for their country on the Juniors Team.

Additional Honda riders for the trans-Tasman event in the Full Throttle Sports headed Honda outfit

include Dean Ferris and Peter Boyle.

Thanks to strong performances in the Pro Lites and Junior ranks, Australia defeated New Zealand

by 34 points last year in Taupo, NZ.

Ando will be looking to lead his team in the battle to retain the Cup taking place at the much

heralded McAdam Park.

Team Manager Yarrive Konsky said it has been a tiring week for the crew as they prepare for their

first event together.

“Testing has gone extremely well and both Craig and Daniel love their new 2008 Honda CRF450s.”

“Dean has been amazing and appreciates his new factory ride and Cameron feels as fit as ever.

Lee Ellis is excited by his selection for the Oz team, and Peter Boyle is also looking forward to

racing on a 450.”

"Honda's commitment to this event is of a high priority. Events of this stature are important for the

longevity of the sport and the club," Konsky said.

Both Oceania teams will be made up of 14 riders, comprising four in the Pro Open and Pro Lites

categories, and three each in Juniors and Women.

This year’s format will also include the Pro Shootout and Pro Feature races which will see the top

20 Lites and Open riders compete in one event. The Pro Shootout will see the four fastest Open

and Lites riders from each country go head to head.

For ticket information, go to: www.oceaniamx.com.