From a press release issued by FGSPORT GROUP:

Assen 200 Build Up

The Netherlands round of the World Endurance championship is shaping up to be another weekend of intense action. The leading contenders are relishing the challenge from World Supersport stars Ten Kate, local interest is high with many Dutch and Belgian teams taking part, and the spectators will be happy with a ticket price that includes grandstand seating and a free programme.

Championship Challenge Zongshen Team are currently leading the championship standings. Their rider Warwick Nowland was at the Monza WSB round:

“It was great to watch Chris Vermuelen win the Supersport race aboard the Ten Kate Honda. It has made me realise this weekend is going to be a very tough battle for everyone. The factory Honda CBR600 is an amazing motorcycle and is simply a smaller version of their MotoGP bike.”

Suzuki GB Phase One are second in the standings. Team manager Russell Benney was happy with their performance at Imola: “An excellent start. Olivier Four led until a quarter distance, and we finished in a well deserved position.”

Jason Pridmore will be riding with the team at Assen, fresh from his AMA Formula Xtreme success at Road Atlanta last Sunday.

Local Heroes

This will be the first World Endurance Championship round held at Assen since 1996, but the locals will be out in force for the 200 miler. MCT Flanders have entered a Ducati 748, CRT Suzuki and Lowlands Racing will campaign GSX-R1000s, RVC Racing and Team Polytech will compete on Aprilia RSV1000s and MSC Zolder have entered two Yamaha R1 based teams. The strongest challenge to the permanent teams is likely to come from Herman Verboven Racing, old hands at Endurance with their Suzuki GSX-R1000.

One to Watch

The endurance experience for Assen spectators will be enhanced by the giant Vidiwall that will be installed opposite the main grandstand, offering a close up view of the pit lane action and also allowing viewers to keep tabs on race positions throughout the 83 lap race. Entry to the grandstands and a copy of the race programme magazine is included in the ticket price on race day; there is no charge to watch Saturday’s practice sessions.