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Mitch Rees joins Milenco by Padgetts Honda
Mitch Rees, a celebrated New Zealand Superbike and Formula One Superbike Champion, is gearing up for his much-anticipated debut at the Isle of Man TT Races. Racing a Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade for the Milenco by Padgetts Honda team, he will compete in the RST x D3O Superbike TT, Milwaukee Senior TT, and RL360/Opul Superstock TT races. This exciting journey marks a significant milestone in Rees’s career as he prepares to tackle one of the most challenging motorcycle races in the world.
A promising start on the road
At 32 years old, Rees is no stranger to the racing circuit, having honed his skills in motocross before transitioning to road racing at the age of 21. His early experiences in motocross included impressive performances that took him to the World Junior Championships. Since making the switch to road racing, he has amassed an enviable collection of titles, including four New Zealand Formula One Superbike championships and numerous victories at the famous Cemetery Circuit in Wanganui. Rees’s adaptability and racing prowess have prepared him well for the demanding Isle of Man TT.
A family legacy in racing
Born and raised in Whakatāne, New Zealand, Mitch Rees comes from a family with a rich motorcycling heritage. His father, Tony Rees, is among the country’s top Superbike riders, while his younger brother, Damon, was a New Zealand Supersport champion who sadly passed away in 2023. This family legacy fuels Mitch’s passion for racing and serves as a source of inspiration as he embarks on his TT journey.
Preparation for the mountain course
To prepare for the iconic Mountain Course, Rees participated in the North West 200 and the opening round of the National Superstock Championship. His commitment to thorough preparation is evident as he immerses himself in the intricacies of the course, studying on-board DVDs and utilizing simulation games to familiarize himself with the challenging terrain. Rees expresses his excitement for the experience, stating, “Going over the Mountain for the first time was pretty mind-blowing, especially considering the speeds that they do!” His enthusiasm for the race is palpable, and he is eager to learn and adapt to the unique challenges that the Isle of Man TT presents.
Building connections in the racing community
During his time in Wanganui, Rees had the opportunity to compete against renowned racers such as Peter Hickman, Davey Todd, and Lee Johnston. These interactions not only allowed him to forge friendships but also provided invaluable insights into the racing world. Following the TT 2024 race week on the Isle of Man, Rees became even more motivated to participate in this legendary event. He acknowledges the importance of these connections and the support from fellow racers as he prepares for his debut.
Looking ahead to a thrilling 2025
As he anticipates the upcoming race season, Rees emphasizes his desire to prioritize safety and enjoyment while learning the course. He appreciates the opportunity to work with the experienced team at Milenco by Padgetts Honda, led by Clive and his crew, who are well-known in the racing community. Rees states, “If you’re going to do something, it’s best to do the job properly.” His determination to succeed, coupled with his passion for motorcycle racing, positions him as a rider to watch in the upcoming Isle of Man TT.