One of the most surprising recent developments in the NHRA's Pro Stock Motorcycle category was the double-barreled announcement by three-time champion Angelle Savoie regarding her racing future.

Last month, she revealed she was ending her relationship with Star Racing, her home throughout her entire seven-year professional career, and, that she would be teaming with close friend and cousin-in-law, Antron Brown, at Team 23 in 2003.

At the same time, Star Racing's owner and engine-builder, George Bryce, announced he would be involved in the class on some level in 2003, including his plans to field a Harley-Davidson team, perhaps towards the middle of the schedule. Now, Bryce has firmed up his plans by joining the Dallas, Texas-based Area 51 Motorsports as a consultant and engine supplier.

Area 51 Motorsports' Pro Stock Suzuki will be piloted by Freddy Collis, a two-time AMA Prostar champ, who in 1999 raced with Star at four NHRA national events, including at Memphis, Tenn., where he scored a runner-up finish.

Collis, a 32-year-old resident of Americus, Ga. -- where Star Racing's is headquartered -- will be racing aboard the same Suzuki which Savoie rode to the 2002 title.

Along with Bryce, Ken Johnson, who has served as crew chief with Star Racing for 18 years and contributed significantly to six championships, will continue to serve in that capacity for Collis.

"Winning races is an awesome feeling, but I want to be more than just a racing champion," Collis said after announcing the new team. "I honestly feel I have something else to offer both on and off the track. Area 51 has put together a championship caliber team and I'm looking forward to having Ken and George in my corner as we chase the 2003 championship."

With plans to run the entire 14-race schedule, the announcement adds an intriguing spin to what is expected to be a dynamically new scenario in the category. With three-time champ Matt Hines out of the picture in 2003, Savoie and Brown joining forces and Collis benefiting from the experience at Star Racing, what had appeared to be a lackluster season now provides every indication that the playing field will be as level as it has ever been.

The Pro Stock Bikes will begin their 2003 campaign at the next NHRA event, the Mac Tools Gatornationals in Gainesville (Fla.) Raceway in two weeks.