We have been on the chase, trying to get this story for many weeks now. We heard that Michael Hall had been test riding and trying out Star Racing Yamaha's. We tried to break this story earlier, but Michael was unable to talk about the deal until the contract was finalized. The finalization of the contract took place last Wednesday, and we couldn't be more pleased to bring you this interview. Michael was a top contender throughout his amateur career, and won multiple titles in the process. He has ridden on the best amateur teams in the country and is now ready to etch his legacy in the pro ranks. Michael will debut his new ride with the Star Racing Yamaha team at Anaheim 1 this January, where he hopes to be donning the #124.

Michael, you made your professional debut earlier this year at Millville on board a KTM. We were under the impression that you signed a couple year deal with MDK/KTM. What happened between you and KTM?
Last September I signed a three year deal with KTM. I would race amateur in 2008 and then two years in the pro ranks. I was really looking forward to riding for them. I thought they were a good company and they put together a really good deal for me on paper. However as the year got underway, I don’t think they really knew what they were getting into, and what was put on paper wasn’t coming through. I was getting frustrated and they were getting frustrated so it was a mutual thing for me to move on.

Explain how you felt about the last three outdoor races that you competed in. Were they a learning experience for you, why and how?
The last three outdoors were really up and down for me. I really learned a lot and now I know what it’s all about. I definitely let my nerves and everything around get to me, but going through that I realized what stressing did to me and I’m not going to let it happen again! It’s a dream that I’m living and it’s time to enjoy it.

Moving on, how did the opportunity to ride for Yamaha of Troy/Star Racing originally arise?
I showed that I had potential and that I can run the speed. They had me come out to the Yamaha track and try out. They brought other riders out and I had what they were looking for. I felt really comfortable on the bike and adapted to Supercross really well so it was just a good fit.

We know that the signing of the Star contract took you some time to finalize. What was going on from the time you started test riding the bikes until the time that the contract was officially signed?
They just had a lot going on between the merging of the two teams and sponsorships so it was still a nerve-racking time because it wasn’t a done deal, but everyone kept there word which was a nice change for me.

How many years are you under contract with Star? Will you just be riding the Lites class throughout the 2009 season?
It’s only through 2009 for now, but I really like everyone on the team and it’s a great atmosphere so I’m hoping to be with them for many years to come.

How do you feel making your supercross debut on board one of the best teams in the industry?
It’s a great feeling. They’ve shown that they have what it takes to win championships. I’ll be on one of the best bikes out there so I just need to do my job and I know that everyone will be right there with me.

What are your expectations for the 2009 supercross season?
My expectations are to have a solid season and make sure I get to the opener injury free so I can ride to my potential and get on the podium a couple times.