After spending the last few years behind the scenes serving as KTM’s technical service manager, Rob Tywerould is excited to step back in the role as team manager for the all-new Motorex KTM factory effort in 2013.

Although Tywerould still retains his role as KTM’s technical service manager, the former KTM team manager has been given almost complete control over the factory KTM operation by Jeff Leisk – hand picking his rider and crew combination.

Tywerould has put together a strong MX1 outfit ahead of the 2013 Monster Energy MX Nationals series, consisting of Todd Waters and rookie MX1 rider, Kirk Gibbs.

“I was honoured when he [Leisk] asked me to manage the team again, and he’s given me pretty much free reign to choose the whole crew, including the riders,” said Twyerould. “So I started negotiations with Todd and Kirk during the year last year. I think I’ve got two really great guys, not only obviously fantastic riders, but actually really nice blokes too.

“I’m very excited to be back involved with the racing, it’s something that you never lose. Even though I was in the background, it was of great interest to me what was happening with out race team, and I followed the sport intensely – so I’m very excited.

“I’ve got a great crew of mechanics, with Danny Apro as the crew chief and back at the workshop I have John DiStefano and Kevin Doyle, those are guys that were with me when I ran the race team originially.”

Twyerould will aim to create an atmosphere which is relaxed and fun, while providing his riders with all of the tools needded to go put in the best performance possible on race day.

“My philosophy with racing is really to create a team atmosphere where the guys can ride at their potential,” he added. “Just to give them every tool that they need, machinery wise, mentally, physically that they need to perform on race day.

“Really it’s all about the fun part of it, we do all the hard work before and during the week, and when it comes to racing they’re basically out there showing off and showing what they can do.”

Twyerould and the Motorex KTM team are currently kicking their 2013 season off with the New Zealand championships, contesting all four rounds before heading into round one of the MX Nationals on 14 April at Raymond Terrace.