From a press release issued by Team Hammer:

Texan Signs Up For Talent Search

Lake Elsinore, Calif. – Mark Delano of Dayton, Texas is the first rider to sign up for the 2004 Team Hammer Talent Search Presented By Alpinestars. Delano, 31, is a first-year Expert and was the highest-ranked CMRA Amateur in 2003, with the highest overall rider performance index in the CMRA.

The Talent Search is a comprehensive development program designed to help riders go as far in road racing as their talent will allow.

“I want to go as far as I can in racing,” said Delano. “I know I won’t be the youngest guy out there but I believe I have the talent to do something on a professional level if I can get the resources together. I want to get going as fast as I can.”

Delano currently owns a 2001 Suzuki GSX-R600 and a 2001 Suzuki GSX-R750 but plans to buy a 2004 Suzuki GSX-R600 when the bike becomes available.

Two finalists in the Team Hammer Talent Search Presented By Alpinestars will earn full rides for the 2004 Suzuki Cup Finals, including use of a Team Valvoline EMGO Suzuki racebike tended by a professional mechanic, entry fees, tires and a full set of custom Alpinestars leathers, boots and gloves in team colors. The best-finishing Talent Search rider at the Suzuki Cup Finals will take home a Valvoline EMGO Suzuki racebike, and both finalists will be considered for a 2005-season ride with the team.

Greg Moore of Brookwood, Alabama and Chris Siglin of Clayton, California were the 2003 Team Hammer Talent Search finalists, and as the best-finishing finalist in Suzuki Cup action, Siglin took home a race-ready Valvoline EMGO Suzuki GSX-R750.