World Superbike Returns This Weekend

World Superbike is making a triumphant return to the motorsports world Feb. 24 when all
competitors will descend on Phillip Island, Australia, as the first
of 14 rounds get underway. With last year's champion, Max Biaggi,
retiring in the offseason, the top spot is anyone's for the
taking.
All eyes will be on veteran rider Carlos Checa
at the start of the race. The Spaniard surprised many when he took
the top time at last weekend's test, surpassing big names like
Marco
Melandri. He also has a strong track record at Phillip Island,
which should make him a top contender for the win.
Tom Sykes, who
came out of nowhere to finish second overall last season, will be
racing despite having a hairline fracture in his arm, News AU
reports. The accident occurred just a few laps into a private
testing session, leaving the rider without a lot of practice on his
Kawasaki, but he will be on the track to the start the season
anyway.
"That's not the perfect start we were looking for, but sometimes
these things are sent to try us," Sykes told the news source. "...
There's obviously a crack in the wrist and the ribs are a little
bit tender, but we'll get on with the job."