With the 2025 Cab Direct Championship season fast approaching, new recruit Jye Etheridge is eager to embark on a new chapter in his career with the Workington Comets.
After spending several seasons with Berwick, Etheridge made the winter move to Workington and is already feeling reinvigorated and determined to rediscover his best form.
He said: “I’m looking for a new start in my career really, I haven’t been this excited for a season to start in a long time.”
Over the winter, the 29-year-old Australian took the opportunity to return home and recharge both mentally and physically.
He added: “I went back to Australia in January to visit my family and have a holiday with my partner and I was doing a lot of motocross riding and running along the beach when I was back, which was good as the weather was nice and warm.”
Determined to make a strong impact this season, he has made significant investments in his equipment and said: “I’m looking to improve on all areas really and get back to my best, I have invested a lot this season and bought some new engines and equipment – so hopefully they’re fast!”
While leaving Berwick was a tough decision, Etheridge believes the move to Workington was the right choice at the right time in his career.
He said: “It was a little difficult leaving Berwick as I live here and the track is two minutes from my house, but it was a change that was needed,” he admitted. “I think the Workington track and setup is awesome, and the whole crew behind it made it an easy process to make the move.”
“I can practice some weekends that I’m not racing, and by doing that I will get back to my best. Also, coming to Workington will push me to become the rider I was and better me – it’s a proper race track and I’m excited to ride it every week.”
Another exciting aspect of the move is reuniting with fellow Australian Troy Batchelor, who will be the captain of the GT Tyres Comets in 2025, he added.
He said: “With Troy leading the team, it will be pretty cool. I’ve known Troy for a long time, so it will be cool to be back as teammates, and I think it will help the younger guys in the team.”
Etheridge has high hopes for the Comets this season, believing the team has what it takes to go all the way and added: “The Comets can go as far as we want. The team has good potential, and a few guys will find their feet from last season with it being their first season in the UK. I think they will be stronger yet again.”
On a personal level, Etheridge is focused on making his mark in the Cab Direct Championship, with the aim of being in the shop window for a top-flight Premiership place.
He said: “My goals are just to push and be back racing in both leagues and showing what I can do. I know I can mix it and beat most of the guys in that league – I just need to make it happen in the Championship first.”
