Fuelling the Kando: An Unforgettable ASBK Evening That Revved Hearts

Yamaha staff, family and friends experience the thrill of this year's only ASBK night race

Located just 10 minutes from the Yamaha Motor Australia Head Office in Wetherill Park, Sydney Motorsport Park was an ideal location for staff, friends, and family to witness the adrenaline-pumping championship round and paint the pit and spectator areas Yamaha blue. Yamaha Motor Australia strongly believes in having staff feel the true Kando of Yamaha by involving them with as many events as possible, and the ASBK round closely followed the successful WR450F Immersion Day for staff and Yamaha dealers.

On-track action aside, the highlight of the evening was undoubtedly the exclusive Yamaha VIP suite, set above the race team garages. From this vantage point, Yamaha staff and their guests were treated to a perfect view of the racing action from the balcony or via large screens while enjoying the comfort of their surroundings. The suite not only provided a luxurious experience but also provided quick access to the pit area, allowing guests to explore the behind-the-scenes action.

Decked out with an impressive line-up of Yamaha's Land Mobility products, the suite displayed Yamaha's commitment to innovation and performance. From flagship motorcycle models such as the YZF-R1, identical to those being raced on the track, to kids' fun bikes and the new YDX-Moro 07 e-MTB, there was something for every enthusiast. Additionally, guests could browse a display of Yamalube products from ShopYamaha and a collection of helmets from Ficeda, including signed Race R Pro Shark helmets and a sneak peek at the new Shark Areon as worn by Moto GP riders.

Another of the evening's highlights was the exclusive access granted to the Yamaha Racing Team's preparation area, courtesy of team manager John Redding. Scott Bishop, YMA Motorsport Manager, also organised tours of the team's impressive transporters and mobile workshops, offering guests a rare glimpse into the world of top-level motorcycle racing preparation. Interview and autograph sessions with Yamaha Racing Team riders and ASBK stars, Mike Jones and Cru Halliday, provided an opportunity for fans young and old to get up close and personal with the two ASBK big names and score themselves a posters.

As the races unfolded, excitement built, and staff and guests cheered Yamaha competitors in all categories. From the Oceania Junior Cup to the headline Australian Superbike Championship, Yamaha riders dominated the track, claiming victories and thrilling the crowd.

In a moment that had everyone on the edge of their seats, Yamaha Racing Team rider Cru Halliday secured an exciting Race 1 win on his YZF-R1 in the blue riband Superbike category following a race-long duel with fellow series front runners. The thrilling win saw the Kando flowing thick and fast through the Yamaha VIP suite, and a fourth-place finish in the second race saw Halliday claim second overall for the round, just missing out on the top spot by a mere four points. The result moves Halliday into second place in the championship. Read the full Yamaha race report and watch a highlights film of the event.

Beyond the thrill of racing, the event underscored Yamaha Motor Australia's unwavering commitment to supporting Australian road racing. With more than 80 per cent of riders at ASBK events competing on Yamaha products, the brand's presence in the racing community will remain strong for many seasons. From grassroots initiatives to major sponsorships, Yamaha Motor continues to be a driving force behind the growth and development of motorcycle racing in Australia.

Reflecting on the event's success, Matthew Ferry, General Manager of Sales & Marketing for Land Mobility, expressed his excitement with the immersion experience. "With more than 250 Yamaha Motor Australia employees, friends, and family members in attendance, the event was a testament to Yamaha's enduring legacy in racing," he said. "Racing isn't just about winning trophies—it's about pushing the boundaries of innovation and performance, a philosophy deeply ingrained in Yamaha's DNA."

Matthew Ferry also praised members of the Land Mobility team, including Barbara Murphy, Sian Hopkins, Scott Bishop, and Jake Belford, as well as Tara-Lea Albury from ShopYamaha and Matt Smeekins from Ficeda, for bringing true Yamaha Kando to the fun staff and family event.

Congratulations to all involved in making the Yamaha Staff Immersion Day at the Australian Superbikes an unforgettable success.