Chip Ellis released as G2 rider

Chip Ellis Released from G2

George Smith, president of G2 Motorsports, announced that Chip Ellis's contract will not be renewed for NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle riding duties for 2008. A frequent number one qualifier, Ellis failed to produce a win in 2007 and finished third in points. "Chip is very adept at making the bike go quick and fast, the problem has been on Sunday," said Smith.

"Personally, I have developed a good working relationship with Chip. I admire him and believe that he is one of the best motorcycle riders in the world. He has been a great help in proving the capabilities of the S&S powered V-Twin Pro Stock Motorcycle, and has helped our program immensely the past few years. He has the option of remaining as a valued employee of G2 as he considers his plans."

"He's been the best test rider we've ever had," said Jackie Bryce, G2 vice president of operations. And in 28 years with Star Racing and G2, Bryce has seen a lot of riders.

"We'd like to retain his talents as a test driver and his ability to demonstrate bikes for customers," agreed G2 co-owner George Bryce. "Sometimes, change is required for things to move forward."

"My agreement with Chip for 2007 was that we would put forth a maximum effort and do our best to perform at the highest level," added Smith. "And with Ken Johnson, Dale Ellis, the guys back at S&S and the whole crew here at G2 in Americus, we did just that. I challenged Chip to be able to surge hard and cut good lights on Sunday. That was part of the deal. Had we won either of the final rounds we were in at Pomona or Las Vegas, we would have won a championship. What I did this year to work with Chip, and what George Bryce did with Chip, didn't work. Now he can decide what he wants to do with his racing career. This is not a negative parting. We've had a good crew meeting here, and I've called the sponsors and assured them that this is a positive opportunity for them and all of us."

"I want to thank George Bryce and George Smith for the opportunity of a lifetime to help fulfill one of my dreams," said Ellis. "Things are looking pretty good for next year. I have a couple of things in the works and we'll just have to see what happens."

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