A November 4 meeting of stakeholders produced news and rumours for the upcoming season produced some mixed news.

Yamaha formally announced it is pulling out of the series for 2010, and will look at a possible return for 2011 in due time. This means that stalwart Yamaha rider Kevin Lacombe is now on foot, as are Tony Casper and Royce McLean, two younger riders that Yamaha supported in the 600 class.

BWM Canada has confirmed that it will field two S1000RR Superbikes for riders Francis Martin and Mike Ferreira.

No word from Kawasaki Canada, perhaps a sign of some hesitation in funding a full blown two rider / two class team, rather than concentrating all their efforts on multiple champion Jordan Szoke.

Suzuki Canada is also remaining quiet about 2010 plans, as is Harley-Davidson, an easily understood silence now that the Buell rug has been pulled out from under them a few weeks ago.

Honda Canada has already announced support of the growing CBR1256R entry-level class, as well as some limited support to young riders in the Pro 600 class.

A new racing class for nearly-stock Kawasaki Ninja 250R bikes has been announced by RACE, the organizing body at Shannonville. This is excellent news for anyone looking to go up the learning ladder, filling in the gap between the CBR125R class and some quicker machines such as the Suzuki SV650 or a 600 sportbike.

Tough times ahead for racing in Canada, as in the rest of the world. But the heart remains strong!