“The C&L Fairburn Properties/Jackson Racing team is set to make its debut in the Bennetts British Superbike Championship in 2024 in the Pathway-specification class. This move is led by their current rider, Billy McConnell, who will be joined by the newly-signed Jaimie van Sikkelerus, coming over from the Quattro Group British Supersport Championship.
Since their entry in 2022, Chris Fairburn’s team has swiftly made a name for themselves in the Superstock class. They will now transition to Bennetts BSB, utilizing Honda Fireblade machinery prepared by Jackson Racing, which complies with the new Pathway specification technical regulations.
Billy McConnell is returning for his third year with the team and to the Superbike class, having last competed full-time in 2016. He initially entered the series in 2006, riding for Virgin Yamaha. Over the years, he has ridden for MSS Kawasaki (2008), Smiths Racing BMW (2015), FS-3 Racing Kawasaki (2016), and had a one-off outing for OMG Racing Suzuki.
The 2014 British Supersport Champion is making the move back to BSB after another successful season in the Superstock series, where he secured a victory at Thruxton and achieved top-three finishes at Silverstone, Snetterton, Brands Hatch, and, most recently, Donington Park.
On the other hand, Dutchman Jaimie van Sikkelerus joins the team after making a name for himself in the Supersport Championship. He made his debut in the class in 2021 and secured a podium finish at Donington Park, ultimately finishing tenth overall. Last year, he improved to fifth overall after achieving five podium finishes, including his first victory at Donington Park. In the current season, he ranks sixth in the championship standings after securing another victory on the MPM Routz Racing Yamaha at Donington.
Billy McConnell expressed his excitement about returning to BSB, especially with the new Pathway rules providing an opportunity to rejoin the grid. He’s eager to compete with the top riders once again and appreciates the increased track time with 15 more races in the season.
Jaimie van Sikkelerus shared his enthusiasm for working with the C&L Fairburn Properties/Jackson Racing team in the new BSB Pathway class. He acknowledged that many changes are in store for him in the upcoming season, including a new team, bike, and class. Still, he’s motivated to learn and grateful for the opportunity to continue competing in the British Championship due to the high-level racing and enthusiastic crowds.
Team Owner Chris Fairburn reflected on the team’s rapid rise in the Superstock class and the decision to move into the Superbike class, driven by the new Pathway-specification regulations. He believes this move will maximize the team’s potential, with Billy McConnell’s experience complementing Jaimie’s talents.
Bennetts British Superbike Championship Series Director Stuart Higgs expressed his delight at the team’s entry into the championship, emphasizing how the BSB Pathway class has made this possible. He also welcomed back Billy McConnell and applauded Jaimie as the first full-time Dutch rider in Bennetts BSB, recognizing his impressive performance in the Supersport class. Stuart Higgs looks forward to seeing the team’s continued growth and success, showcasing the potential of the BSB Pathway class in the Bennetts British Championship.
Pic Credit MSVR Press release
