Mechanic Greg Wood will once again work with racer Ben Spies, this time in Europe. Wood is currently flying to Donington to join up with Spies and his Yamaha World Superbike squad for this weekend's races and continue on through the season. Spies will now have the services of two of his former AMA team as he races in World Superbike and attempts to capture the series crown in his first season in Europe.

Greg Wood (right) celebrates '08 AMA Superbike championship at Laguna image by riles and nelson

"Woody", who was not under contract with Yoshimura, wrenched on Blake Young's machines this year.

"What can I say? Yoshimura Suzuki has been outstanding to me for six great years. I will miss the entire team as it is very hard for me to leave not only my racing 'family' but my wife, Sheri, and eight kids while I'm away in Europe. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity, and privliege, for someone like myself to be a part of supporting America on the World Superbike platform. I will miss all of my friends in the AMA series. Watch out for the camera on the grid," said Wood, who is known for taking photos during the pre-race ceremonies. "Thanks again to Don Sakakura from Yoshimura for all you have done for me and my family you will truly be missed almost as much as I will miss American food, as I am a meat and potatoes man ... and don't forget about the Twinkies!"

Woody visiting the Yamaha team at Miller. One subject he and House differ on is what arm to wear your watch on. image by notorious bjn

Wood previously worked with Miguel DuHamel at Honda, Steve Rapp at at Vance and Hines Ducati, and Tom Kipp at Chapparal before joining up with Yoshimura Suzuki and Spies six years ago. It's been noted by the media that during Ben's AMA Superbike career, he never suffered a mechanical DNF.

In addition to his Superbike wrenching duties, Wood's hobby is restoring Volkswagens and several of his projects have been featured in magazines.