Over the past few years, Jake Shipton and Crescent Motorcycles have become somewhat synonymous to say the least. Evolving into the lead Crescent ambassador, at the forefront of British Motocross showcasing their Off-Road Motorcycle range, it will likely come as a surprise to many of you to see Jake and Crescent part ways after such a long time.
“I’d like to say thank you to the guys at Crescent Motorcycles, the staff and the superbike team personnel for all their help and support for many years. I achieved my best results to date with the team. Paul Denning gave me everything and more to go racing; transforming me from a chubby kid racing club level, to being fit and fighting for wins/podiums at the British. I’ve made many friends, had many laughs, highs and lows but Crescent/Yamaha have been there and for that I can’t thank them enough. It’s truly a friendship that will last a lifetime.”
The decision to make the move away from Crescent going in to 2021 is no doubt a big step for Jake. Branching away from Yamaha entirely and deciding to jump back on an orange machine with a new group of people behind him comes as a welcome change for Shippo.
“It was a tough decision to make, but I love a challenge! This has given me a lot to come back as competitive as possible for next year. Everything will be new. New bike, new parts, surroundings, even my trainer. We’ve left no stone unturned and I’m thankful for all the people that believe in me; there’s been a lot of time and money put into our 2021 campaign and I appreciate that massively!”
There are still a few details to be finalised, but Jake and the group of people behind him have some very exciting plans moving forward into next year! But, I’m sure there are many Shippo supporters out there that are wondering why the #4 hasn’t lined up with the Fastest 40 for the MX Nationals Championship, and why the reigning Bridgestone British Masters Champion won’t be at Battlecross in a few weeks to defend his title.
For those of you not in the loop, Jake attempted to run Round One of the Michelin MX Nationals at Hawkstone before suffering with severe arm pump. Hawkstone was brutal enough for even the fittest of riders that weekend so, having struggled with numbness in his hands since Blaxhall last year the decision was made to sit 2020 out.
“At the moment I can only manage a few fast laps. Which is super frustrating as we haven’t had the chance to show everyone how hard my mechanic Ryan [Hawkridge] and I have been working and the progress as a result! But, everything happens for a reason and we will be more than ready to comeback fighting in 2021!”
Now, I know as a reader you will most likely be sitting there thinking… “well this is all very vague, it’s left us with more questions than answers!” Be patient and all will be revealed in due course… 2021 is going to be a good year!
Words and Images – XCastMedia
