Monster Energy Kawasaki team manager Troy Carroll believes his international combination of Billy Mackenzie, Dean Ferris and Phil Nicoletti have what it takes to win races from the opening round of the 2011 Rockstar Energy MX Nationals season.

Carroll, himself a 12-time Australian champion, says the team’s preparation is on target and he is excited for round one at Broadford on 13 March.

“We’re all more than happy with the forming of Monster Energy Kawasaki,” Carroll said of the team’s new title sponsorship from the energy drink giant. “The new workshop has a great vibe and the mechanics and riders are all gelling really well.

“The riders’ and team’s preparation for the 2011 race season is right on track and we’ll be ready to perform come Broadford. We’re all looking forward to getting out there and winning races from the get go.”

After taking out last year’s Super X title with Monster Energy-backed American Josh Hansen, the domestic Kawasaki team has secured backing from Monster and the brand’s Australasian manager is happy to support the factory Kawasaki effort.

“Monster Energy has a history of building winning race teams with Kawasaki, we’re looking forward to continuing that tradition here in Australia,” Hunter said.

“Monster Energy and Kawasaki worked together with much success to bring Josh Hansen to Australia in 2010. The venture yielded positive results with a Championship win and we look forward to continuing to bring high profile Kawasaki riders to Australia in the future.

“The recent announcement of the Monster Energy Showtime FMX Kawasaki freestyle team reinforces Monster Energy and Kawasaki’s commitment to growing and developing Motocross in Australia”

For Kawasaki Australia, it looks forward to the continued partnership with Carroll and also welcomes Monster Energy onboard.

“Kawasaki has long enjoyed a successful relationship with Monster Energy,” said Kawasaki Australia MD, Ted Mori. “We hope to continue that success here in Australia.

“Monster Energy has made a dynamic impact on the energy drink market and their sponsorship and involvement of action sports throughout the world is both prolific and commendable.

“We’re happy to be associated with such a successful brand as Monster Energy.”

The team will also be supported by Fly, Skull Candy, Holden, ISG, Coleman Group, Castrol, Unit, Sidi, M2R, Pro Circuit and Michelin in 2011.