Since his come back Ray has attracted the attention of Thorpe, his latest results instigating David’s approach to secure his services for next season.

Rowson currently holds third place in the 2008 British Open Motocross Championship after winning the latest two rounds of this fiercely contested series. His other recent successes include a MX1 race win at the fifth round of the 2008 Maxxis ACU British on route to third place overall. Ray will continue to fulfil his commitments with his current team until the end of this season, before joining Thorpe’s winter training camp in preparation for his 2009 campaign.

Ray, who will turn twenty years old late next month, will contest a full season on board a factory CCM CMX450 machine in the MX1 class, this will include all rounds of the Maxxis ACU British Motocross Championship, plus the entire FIM World Motocross Championship. CCM Racing’s official two-man team was recently revealed as one of the selected squads who has been approved to compete in next year’s global series.

Commenting on his first signing Thorpe stated. “I have had my eye on Ray for sometime, but with him being out due to injury for the first part of the year it had been impossible to gauge his progress. However since returning he has really looked strong, despite him perhaps still not being able to ride at his full potential.”

“I think Ray will really benefit from our winter training programme and can arrive at the start of 2009 as a stronger, fitter and more complete rider.” Thorpe concluded.

Rowson confirmed just how much he is looking forward to the new season. “This is a massive opportunity for me, and one I want to repay both David and CCM for by producing the results we are all looking for next year. The whole CCM team is a very exciting project and one that I am proud to be part of.”

Ray rounded off by saying “In the meantime I have still got a job to do this season, and I would like to thank Paul and the PAR team for all their help and support to date.”