Days of appearances and showcasing of Chinese riders in the world's top motorcycle events, which are traditionally dominated by athletes from western countries or Japan, appear to be on the rise.

Wang Tao, 16, and Li Zhengpeng, 15, are expected to become the first two Chinese riders in the 2004 FIM (Federation Internationale de Motocyclisme) World Endurance Championship Zhuhai 6 hours, which will start from April 30, 2004.

FGSPORT GROUP, promoter of the FIM, has reached an important agreement with the Zhuhai New Century International Management Company Ltd to stage a round of the FIM Endurance World Championships in China in 2004.

It is also the first time China will host a top global motorcycling event, marking an important and historic step in the development of motorcycle racing in the country.

"We have owned the rights to organize a world championship event within the next five years. We are planning to bring more international motorcycling events to China and offer more chances for Chinese riders,'' said Michel Marqueton, CEO of Zhuhai New Century International Management Company Ltd.

Wang and Li's outstanding performances in domestic competitions left Marquetion thoroughly impressed, and the two were later sent to France for further training.

"I have been dreaming of developing a Chinese rider to become the world champion. Of course, everything has to begin from the discovery of young and potential ones,'' said Marqueton, who led the Chinese Zongshen team with a complement of all foreign riders to become the World Endurance champions in 2002.

Wang and Li have been under training for three months and making rapid progress.

"They are now still in a stage of learning. But after a series of special training abroad,they will participate in the Zhuhai 6 hours,'' Marqueton announced on Monday in Beijing.

"I really benefitted a lot in the past three months in France. I hope I can represent a Chinese motor team to ride in the Zhuhai event,'' said Wang, who has not signed a contract with any motor team.

"I am dreaming every day of next year's Zhuhai 6 hours,'' said Li.

The FIM Endurance World Championship is a unique test of power and long distance motorcycle racing. It is one of only three world road racing championships sanctioned by the FIM, the sport's official governing body.

The Championship series is comprised of eight motor sports weekends on eight of the world's eight top circuits. The series is now in its third season of growth since being relaunched by FGSPORT in 2001.

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