After years on Hondas, Cooper Webb rode a KTM in the Super Mini race at the Monster Energy Cup. However, he had not yet signed with the orange brand, and was actually still in negotiations. Now the word is out that Star Racing Yamaha has signed the young North Carolina native, building a similar amateur-through-professional transition for Webb as the GEICO Honda team has built for Trey Canard, Justin Barcia, Eli Tomac and others. The official PR is below.

 

MOREHEAD CITY, N.C. (November 15, 2011) – Cooper Webb, who at just 15 years of age has amassed 76 amateur national titles has signed a three year contract to race for the Star Valli Yamaha Team with backing from Yamaha Motor Corp., U.S.A.

The unique program assembled by Bobby Regan, of Star Valli Yamaha is designed to take young Cooper through the remainder of his amateur career, and then right into the professional circuit.  “Cooper will have the best motorcycles and equipment available,” said Regan.  “The experience and resources of our pro team will back him the entire way,” he added.

Cooper will continue racing as an amateur in 2012 with the decision when to turn professional decided by the Webb family and Regan.  “Bobby and Yamaha are giving us what we need to successfully conclude Cooper’s amateur racing and take him to the professional ranks through a well-structured plan.  I’m excited to take this step toward seeing Cooper’s dreams realized,” said Bob Webb, Cooper’s father.

“I felt great right away on the Star Valli YZ250F, and everyone I have met on the team has been really helpful and professional,” said Cooper.  “I am looking forward to Mini O’s.”

Cooper’s first race with the Star Valli Yamaha Team will be the Thor Winter National  Olympics Nov. 21 – 26 in Gainesville, Fla.