BSB: Hawk Racing announce Superbike line-up

Hawk Racing have announced their 2023 British Superbike line-up with Charlie Nesbitt and Josh Owens joining the team.

Nesbitt has signed to spend his first full season in the Superbike class with the Hawk Racing team. He will step up from the National Superstock Championship after a year of riding the Suzuki.

He will be joined on the grid by Josh Owens, who makes the switch from the CDH Racing team. Owens will continue in the Superbike class, racing in the Championship since the 2019 season.

Hawk Racing will celebrate the team’s 25^th consecutive season in the British Superbike Championship. They first entered the Superbike class in 1998, in a team originally run by Stuart Hicken.

Owens finished 24^th in the Championship last season riding a Kawasaki ZX-10RR, with CDH Racing. He would finish ahead of his teammate, Liam Delves, who will continue with the CDH team in 2023.

Charlie Nesbitt will be promoted to the class in 2023, after wildcarding at the final two rounds last season. His best finish would be in race two at Brands Hatch, after finishing eighth place in the race. 

The 21-year-old won the British GP2 Championship in 2021 and would move up to the National Superstock Championship. Nesbitt would end his 2022 season in eighth place in the standings.

Nesbitt said: “I’m really happy and excited to be riding for Hawk Racing for a second year. It’s a great team to be part of and their experience and support really helped me make the step up to National Superstock and then Bennetts BSB last season. 

“The opportunity they have given me is like no other and I can’t wait to be able to repay them the best I can.”

Owens added: “I’m super happy and excited to be joining the Hawk Racing family. They have brought on so many talented riders over the years and given them the opportunity to do well. I can’t wait to get out for the first test and get working with everyone and seeing what we can achieve together this year.”

Hawk Racing team manager, Steve Hicken commented: “Charlie and Josh are two of the most talented young riders on the British scene and we’re delighted they’ll be lining up together for us this year.

“They’ve known each other since a young age and risen through the junior ranks, winning two British Championships each along the way, and bringing them on board continues our track record of backing younger riders who have the potential to make a big impact in Bennetts BSB. Hawk Racing is actually a few years older than they both are and I’ve no doubt our experience in the paddock will help them to unlock their potential.

“What I will say for now is that I can’t thank old and new partners enough for their support for the coming season. We’re excited to start our 25th consecutive season and hopefully spring some surprises along the way.”

Image: britishsuperbike.com