Name: Carlos Checa
Nationality: Spanish
Birth Date: 10/15/1972
Carlos Checa began his GP career on a 250 in 1995 and got the 500 ride when his team mate was injured that same year. The Bull made an immediate impact on the GP scene and has been a staple ever since. His first 500GP victory came at Catalunya, ahead of GP legend, Mick Doohan. After that the Spanish star has been a threat to win on any given track.
In recent years, Checa has kicked around the MotoGP paddock, riding for four different teams in as many years. For 2007 he founds himself competing on a Michelin-shop LCR Honda. After a year toiling for the hapless Tech 3 Yamaha team utilizing Dunlop rubber, the Spaniard was looking forward to a more productive season but languished in 14th overall.
Checa hit his stride in 2008 as a consistent podium and race-winning threat finishing 4th overall. The 37-year-old Spaniard will headline the 2009 Honda SBK effort and is considered one of the prime title contenders.
Career Highlights:
2008 - 4th World Superbike
2007 - 14th MotoGP
2006 - 15th MotoGP
2005 - 9th MotoGP
2004 - 8th MotoGP
2003 - 7th MotoGP
2002 - 5th MotoGP
2001 - 6th 500 MotoGP
2000 - 6th 500 MotoGP
1999 - 7th 500 MotoGP
1998 - 4th 500 MotoGP
1997 - 8th 500 MotoGP
1996 - 8th 500 MotoGP
1995 - 16th 500 MotoGP
1995 - 13th 250 MotoGP
1994 - 12th 250 Moto GP.
1993 - 3rd 125 Spanish Championship.
1992 - 125 GP European Championship.
1991 - Spainish 80cc Champion.
