Rangiora’s Jake Lewis is once again clocking up the air miles in pursuit of motorcycling glory.

The Yamaha ace finished a close third overall in the New Zealand Superbike Championships’ 600cc supersport class, which wrapped up in Taupo last month, then immediately boarded a plane for Europe and the 2013 European Junior Cup competition.

The first round of eight is in Aragon, Spain, this weekend and the just-turned 18-year-old Lewis has been hard at work getting prepared.

“I had a good last day to the EJC test at Alcarras, Spain, making a few small minor changes making the bike feel even better, so it is great to head into round one this weekend with a good set-up,” said Lewis.

“We have just arrived to Aragon, so a couple days’ break and then back into it on Friday. I’m looking forward to a great weekend.”

The European Junior Cup is the entry-level class to the World Superbike Championships and is open to riders from all around the world aged between 14 and 19.

Lewis is actually one of four New Zealand riders entered in the Cup this season, the others being Wellington’s Sam Croft and Aucklanders Connor London and Blayes Heaven, although Lewis has the highest pedigree and perhaps stands the best chance of winning.

“I raced in Europe last year too and that was a real eye-opener. These European riders are just so fast. It is such a big jump in the level of competition (compared to racing in New Zealand),” said Lewis.

“I only did half the series last year but I’ll be doing the full championship this season and first prize is a paid-up ride in the Superstock class.

“I really want to give this European Junior Cup a good crack. Who knows where it may lead.”

2013 European Junior Cup Calendar:

Round 1: Aragon, Spain, April 14

Round 2: Assen, Holland, April 28

Round 3: Monza, Italy, May 12

Round 4: Imola, Italy, June 30

Round 5: Silverstone, UK, August 4

Round 6: Nurbergring, Germany, September 1

Round 7: Magny Cours, France, October 6

Round 8: TBC

© Words and photo by Andy McGechan, www.BikesportNZ.com