Grassroots focus for new Superbike Pathways Foundation

The foundation (SPF), launched by the Star Insure NZ Superbike Championship promoter Mike Marsden, is the focal point of a series of initiatives aimed at rejuvenating junior racing.

“Our key initial focus is growing the Supersport 150 class numbers and giving talented young riders a defined pathway,” Marsden says. 

“Rider training will also be a focus, and we are also looking at ways to inspire youngsters – and their parents – to get involved with the series.

A core goal of SPF is to discover New Zealand's next international star, while supporting as many young riders as possible on their journey toward racing Superbikes in the NZSBK Championship. 

Recognising that funding is the biggest barrier for most, SPF will provide assistance through an annual grants programme and will connect promising riders with potential sponsors.

“We all know the big challenge for many young riders is funding so we are putting in place a small fund initially, and will be making grants available to suitable candidates and will align riders with sponsors, where there is a fit.

“There are a number of people already involved with the foundation that are keen to support a young rider financially, which is fantastic, but we are looking for more like-minded individuals or businesses to come on this journey with us,” Marsden says.

“To have such support at this early stage gives us the impetus and credibility to build something special,” Marsden says.

“So, please contact us via the website or directly if you wish to join us.”

SPF are also asking for young riders with Supersport 150 class aspirations to put their best foot forward and apply www.nzsbk.co.nz if they need support for the 2026 series.

Another SPF initiative is to run a two-day training camp for all Supersport 150 competitors, which will be run by Neil Chappel of the Mini GP academy, which is aligned with international 150 training standards.

While details are still to be confirmed the aim is to run the training camp at Tokoroa, in between NZSBK rounds 3 & 4 in March.

The Superbike Pathways Foundation (SPF) Steering Group is made up of Mike Marsden, Aaron Slight, Paul Treacy, Peter Donaldson, Grant Woolford, Peter Clifford and Stu Avant.

“With ambassadors such as Aaron Slight, Paul Treacy, and Stu Avant—all of whom have competed at the highest levels—and guidance from Peter Clifford, current Director of Rider Development for the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup, SPF brings world-class knowledge and experience to its mission,” concludes Marsden.

If you’re a young rider looking for support, or interested in becoming an SPF Supporter go to https://www.nzsuperbikeseries.co.nz/foundation 

Image One: Some of the frontrunners in the 2025 Supersport 150 Championship: First Nixon Frost – Second – Hunter Charlett Third – Ryder Chamberlain.

Image Two: Rising talent Ryder Chamberlain and his Yamaha R15 Supersport 150 machine.

Image Three: Supersport 150 Father & Son Combo, Ryder and Stu Chamberlain.