Young Brit Jonathan Rea was British 60cc motocross champion in 1997, before moving up through the motocross classes and switching to road racing in 2003 in the British 125cc championship. He was runner-up in the 2007 British Superbike championship and the youngest ever rider to secure a BSB pole position. He made the transition to the World Supersport championship in 2008, debuting in the World Supersport series with the HANNspree Ten Kate Honda team. Riding Honda’s CBR600RR alongside team-mate and eventual world champion, Andrew Pitt, Jonathan finished as runner-up in the championship. Last season, the Northern Irishman moved up to World Superbike level and impressed many with his mature approach to machine development. His methodical work ethic and dynamic riding style were rewarded with two race wins and a further six podium finishes for fifth place overall.