Maria Costello signs for Ice Valley Racing BMW
Costello hopes to reclaim female TT lap record aboard S1000RR
MARIA Costello has signed for Ice Valley Racing BMW to compete in the 2015 road race season on an S1000RR.
Costello, 41, is to race the S1000RR in the TT, North West 200 and Ulster Grand Prix.
Costello held the female TT lap record for five years, at 114.73mph, before the record was taken by Jenny Tinmouth in 2009.
Ice Valley Racing BMW is the Manchester-based team with which Peter Hickman became the fastest ever TT newcomer in last year’s Senior race.
Costello said: ‘I’m planning my best year yet. This year I’m in the best shape ever, I've got the latest BMW, new crew chief from CMB Motorsport and a great team ready to support my assault on the roads. I must be one of the luckiest women on this planet.
‘Last year I was injured, so I’ve got unfinished business at the North West 200 and the Isle of Man TT. I really can’t wait to test the BMW next week.’
Team owner and rider Paul Shoesmith said: ‘I’d like to see her get the female lap record back. She has the right bike now and a team to help her achieve that.’
Lee Nicholls, Marketing Manager for BMW Motorrad UK, said: ‘We are committed to attracting more dynamic female riders to the brand and Maria is the perfect ambassador and inspiration for women in motorsports and motorcycling.
‘She will inspire new riders and introduce them to BMW Motorrad, and in turn the BMW S 1000 RR will be a fantastic package for her to challenge at the North West 200, Isle of Man TT and Ulster Grand Prix. We wish her the very best of luck in the coming season.’
