After 16 years racing top level Australian and New Zealand superbike racing, Robbie Bugden has decided to call it a day on full time racing.
“I can honestly say that the past 16 years have been nothing short of a dream come true. I have raced with some of the best teams in the business. Raced alongside some amazing riders.
“I have raced in seven different countries on some of the best track on the globe. But now I feel the time is right, and I walk away very proud of all my accomplishments and what I have achieved in the industry.
“I could never thank everyone who has made all this possible, but I would like to mention a few – Perry Morison, Phil and Lyn Tainton. These guys were absolutely instrumental in the early part of my career and really did kick started everything.
“I won some races, built some great relationships and had fun doing it.
“Peter Fenton and Tom Peck from New Zealand. Together we won five NZSBK Championships and was runner-up in two.”
Budgen won the premier New Zealand Superbike Championship crown in 2007, 2008, 2009, 2012 and 2013.
Who could forget his battles with the likes of Andrew Stroud, Craig Shirriffs, Gareth Jones, Sloan Frost, Tony Rees, Hayden Fitzgerald, Dennis Charlett, Nick Cole and Ray Clee around places like Manfeild, Hampton Downs, Teretonga, Levels Raceway and Ruapuna?
“Getting to work with Kev and Rhonda Marshall was yet another highlight,” said Bugden. “Kev is without a doubt, one of the best in the business.
“And more recently, Matthew Pope and Kelvin Reilly. In what has been a great two years with plenty of success. And also made some great friends and relationships that will continue well into the future.
“A special mention to Chris Lynis from moto National for being a part and supporting me right from the start until the very end.
“Also a massive thank to my Mum and Dad. Always by far my biggest supporters.
To all my followers and supporters. Thank you. You guys made it everything that it was. And it was awesome.
“So for now, I say thank you to everyone for making my dream a reality.”
© Photo by Andy McGechan, BikesportNZ.com
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