BIG TURN-OUT EXPECTED FOR NORWICH OPENER - posted 13 March 2010
With a promising weather forecast and two superb fields, Norwich are hoping early-season supporters will shake-off their winter hibernation and head for Eaton Park tomorrow afternoon (Sunday 14 March) when the club stages two top class individual events.
The Malcolm Flood Memorial Trophy opens the action at 12 noon. Malcolm Flood was one of the early cycle speedway pioneers - and one of the finest riders Norfolk ever produced. He was runner-up in the 1951 national cycle speedway championship and went on to make a name for himself in motorised speedway. Sadly he was killed during a speedway race in 1956.
The memorial trophy, which still bears his name over half a century later, is primarily for aspiring youngsters. The line up is
Malcolm Flood Memorial Trophy (Under 18) 1 Danielle Riley, 2 Jordan Stant, 3 Leon Wild, 4 Daniel Chambers, 5 Ben Collins, 6 Ashley Hill, 7 George Solomon, 8 James Wakefield, 9 Liam Parker, 10 Emma Betts, 11 Marcus Sczyzlyk, 12 Daniel Osborne, 13 Jamie Chittick, 14 Kieran Parr, 15 Josh Colby ,16 Phil Adams
The top-billing Norwich Grand Prix should be a cracker. An appearance by Lukasz Nowacki, fresh from last week's victory in the Midland Grand Prix and arguably the best rider in the country at present, should help to swell the crowd.
The rest of the field is predominantly East Anglian based. It will be interesting to see how fit the riders are after a long winter break. Local favourite Phil Howells is expected to mount a strong challenge although he faces tough opposition from the likes of Adam Peck and Daniel Pike while brothers Chris and Lewis Osborne make an emotional return to the sport after the sad death of their mother Carole.
The full line-up for the Norwich Grand Prix which starts at 2.00 pm is: 1 Lukasz Nowacki, 2 Chris Parish, 3 David Adams, 4 Phil Howells, 5 Adam Peck, 6 Leon Mower, 7 Daniel Pike, 8 Dave Solomon, 9 Lee Grange, 10 Chris Osborne, 11 Tom Doyle, 12 Ian Grange, 13 Leigh Cossey, 14 Josh Brooke, 15 Barry Copping, 16 Lewis Osborne
ALL-STAR OPENING FOR NEW STOKE TRACK - posted 11 March 2010
Stoke cycle speedway club are planning to open their new track with an all-star meeting to coincide with the Cycling Festival to be held in the city when the Tour of Britain comes into the Potteries.
The event is going to be a big individual event on Saturday 26th June. While the final programme is still being finalised, several top riders have already made a commitment, making it a day to remember in the Potteries. Put the date in your diary now. It promises to be a great day!
BRIAN STANDS DOWN AFTER 18 YEARS LOYAL SERVICE - posted 4 March 2010
At their recent presentation night, Exeter Aces Cycle Speedway Club gave outgoing Secretary Mr Brian Maunder a rapturous standing ovation for his service to the club. Brian Maunder also received an engraved silver plate in recognition of his service and a photo collage to remind him of all the achievements he has helped the club to gain over his many years as the club secretary.
Thanks were also passed on from the British League South West for his hard work in helping to run the BLSW Youth and Junior League, and also from British Cycling who awarded Brian the highest accolade in Cycle Speedway, the Wilkinson Sword.
Brian got involved with the club when his young grandson Andrew Yard started racing some 18 years ago when Exeter were enjoying racing in the British League. During his time as the club secretary the club have enjoyed great success at all levels of the sport, winning the South West Youth & Junior League seven times, along with title wins in British League South West Divisions One, Division Two and Conference League. The club have also gained National titles in British under-10’s and under-13’s team championships along with individual champions in nearly every age category.
Although Brian has retired he has said he is looking forward to watching and enjoying this years racing when the new season starts on 14th of March at the Cofton Road Wheels Centre.
Brian receiving a collage of photos over the years from Club Chairman John Avery
HARFORD PARK REVIVAL IN FULL SWING - posted 1 March 2010
Work has started on renovating a Norwich cycle speedway track. Helped by a £1,000 grant from Norwich City Council, local enthusiasts have recently laid 20 tonne of Derbyshire shale on the Harford Park track. Formerly the home of Eaton cycle speedway club, the circuit will now host South-East League B fixtures as well as the East Anglian Fours and Norfolk individual finals.
The man behind the Harford Park revival is delighted with progress.
"Although the weather has been against us, we have put down 20 tonne of Ennstone shale" Gary Colby told Spokesman.
"The local community centre is keen to see cycle speedway back in the park. The Police are also very supportive. We are also seeking further grant to replace the chain-link fence, provide bikes for youngsters as well as basic equipment like helmets, gloves and knee protectors. We also want to replace the container which doubles up as an equipment store."
Harford Park will register as a subsiduary track for Norwich cycle speedway club.
CELEBRATION OF SPEEDWAY - posted 22 February 2010
On Sunday members of the Kesgrave Panthers cycle speedway club travelled to Paradise Park, Broxbourne to give a demonstration of cycle speedway.
The track was laid out on a car park with a tarmac surface, straw bales as the outer perimeter, white plastic as the inside lines, and of course pull-across elastic tapes (who said the 50s and 60s were dead). The twelve Kesgrave riders, together with Lee Kemp from Bretford, were divided into two teams, with two matches taking place, based on a home and away formula. Although there had been a lot of rain and sleet during the morning, the surplus water was swept away, and the first match started at 12.15pm.
The two teams were presented to Len Silver, a former cycle speedway star himself before becoming a top motor cycle speedway rider who now promotes at Rye House. He recalled his memories to the attentive young riders, and informed them that it was indeed himself who promoted one of the very first cycle speedway meetings at Stratford (London).
And so it was ready for the first heat, and who better to referee it than Tony Steele, a world class speedway referee who has officiated at many World Finals, and had just returned from refereeing in Russia at a round of the World Ice Speedway.
A large crowd of veteran cycle speedway/motor cycle riders were spread out around the track, applauding loudly at the skilful riding of the youngsters. The racing itself was both close and very fast, and at the interval both teams had scored forty points apiece. The second half was just as close, with the deadlock continuing to the very end, the final score being Kesgrave Swallows 80 points – Kesgrave Gifkins 80 points. Scores: Kesgrave Swallows: Harry Swallow (c) 17; Pierce Bacon 14; Luke Gifkins 13; Harrison Bacon 14; Rebekka Gifkins 14; James Pomroy 8. Kesgrave Gifkins: Matthew Gifkins (c) 5; Lee Kemp 18; Warren Cutting 11; Jack Parrish 12; Oliver Wright 15; Leonie Cutting 7; Graham Wright 12.
During the interval Alan Moggridge, Bert Harkins and Malcolm Simmons were picked out in the crowd, with the latter being persuaded to sit astride a cycle speedway bike for the first time in …... years.
Now it was time for the second match to take place, and this time all the riders were introduced to the legendary Barry Briggs, who was also press ganged to sit astride a cycle speedway bike. He spent time speaking to all the individual riders, answering their questions, and telling them all about his days as a cycle speedway rider.
Once again the racing was both fast and close, with the Swallows piling on the pressure, holding an interval lead of 43 points to 36 points. In the second half the Gifkins fought back, losing the match by just three points. Final Score Kesgrave Swallows 81 points, Kesgrave Gifkins 78 points. Overall score Swallows 161 – Gifkins 158.
All the riders were presented at the end to Malcolm Belchambers (President of the Veteran Cycle Speedway Riders Association) and Colin Booth (Secretary of the Association) - pictured. The superb V.C.S.R.A. trophy was then presented to the winning team by Malcolm himself, who informed the intently listening youngsters how he began in cycle speedway, and the differences in his day to the rules, tracks, clothing and bikes of today.
All in all a superb day for cycle speedway, proving just how close we are to the motorised version, and how our backgrounds are so similar. A list of 'PEDALS to POWER' was made available during the day, showing just how many riders had gone from cycle speedway to Motorcycle Speedway, this consisting of at least 141 names, and with many names missing, the number must surely top the 150 mark.
TOP PERSONALITIES HONOURED - posted 21 February 2010
Some of cycle speedway's most loyal servants were presented with special volunteer awards at last night's glittering British Cycling awards ceremony. These included Cycle Speedway Commissioner Mike Hack and Premier Manager Dave Flemming (pictured) who was presented with the Wilkinson Sword Award. Several British cycle speedway champions were also honoured.
Highlight of the evening was Dave Hemsley's induction in Cycling's Hall of Fame.
We hope to bring you more news of the Awards Ceremony shortly.
CYCLE SPEEDWAY STARS AT GALA DINNER - posted 19 February 2010
Cycle speedway champions and volunteers will rub shoulders with the elite of British cycling at British Cycling's 50th Anniversary Gala Dinner and Annual Awards ceremony at Manchester Central Convention Centre on Saturday evening (20 February).
National champions from all cycling disciplines will attend an exclusive 2009 Annual Awards ceremony at the Midland Hotel, where they will be officially presented with their honours by top athletes such as Olympic medallist Jamie Staff and British Cycling dignitaries including CEO, Ian Drake before joining other guests at the black tie 50th Anniversary Gala Dinner at the nearby Manchester Central Convention Centre. After the drinks, guests will make their way to the main hall for a three-course meal and an evening of entertainment, hosted by Sky's Dermot Murnaghan. It is expected over 600 guests will attend the dinner.
During the Gala Dinner a group of outstanding volunteers, including cycle speedway's Dave Flemming, will also be invited to collect their honours from British Cycling's dignitaries and elite athletes.
Former World and British cycle speedway champion Dave Hemsley will be one of 50 hand-picked athletes initiated into Cycling's Hall of Fame.
MASSIVE BOOST FOR SUFFOLK CYCLING - posted 19 February 2010
More than £350,000 of National Lottery funding has been awarded today by Sport England to promote cycling in Suffolk.
The grant came after research showed low sports participation rates in rural areas. The money will pay for more than 2,000 children to participate in British Cycling's Go-Ride scheme which aims to encourage the sport.
Suffolk cycle speedway clubs, who have a proven track record for delivering youth cycling, are expected to be at the forefront on the new initiative.
EXHIBITION IN PARADISE - posted 18 February 2010
This Sunday (21 February), the Kesgrave Panthers cycle speedway club are giving a demonstration of cycle speedway at the 'Celebration of Speedway' event at Paradise Park, Broxbourne.
The Kesgrave Club have invited the veterans of the East London blub to participate, as well as Lee Kemp of Bretford. The racing will commence at 10.30am on a tarmac surface with straw bales as the outer perimeter, and a pull across elastic starting gate (bet this will bring back memories).
The Veteran Speedway Association have donated a trophy for the winning team, teams racing in various age groups during the day. The meeting will close promptly at 4.00pm, with the presentation of the trophy taking place at this time.
"It promises to be a great day out" said organiser Dave Hunting. "We hope to see many of you there."
OLYMPIC SPACE OFFERED TO OTHER CYCLING DISCIPLINES - posted 18 February 2010
There will be no cycle speedway track at the Olympic Velopark because the space originally allocated to cycle speedway is required by other cycling disciplines.
That's the conclusion of cycle speedway journalist Joe McLaughlin after he contacted some key personnel involved in Olympic planning earlier today.
"I can tell Spokesman readers that today, acting purely in a private capacity, I have spoken to key representatives of various Olympic London 2012 groups and senior personnel. I have now documentary proof as to why there is no cycle speedway track on the post Olympic site.
"The reason stated is that the space earmarked for the cycle speedway track was required by other cycle sports. This was confirmed by Mr Richard Arnold, Project Sponsor of the Olympic Development Authority" added McLaughlin.
The news came as a disappointment to former South-East chairman Dave Flemming who had attended a number of meetings with Olympic venue organisers. McLaughlin was quick to acknowledge Flemming's efforts.
"I have also learnt that Dave Flemming attended several meetings and made an excellent impression. This is unheralded work by Dave and I think we should all thank him for his grand efforts" said McLaughlin.
TOP TEAMS ESCAPE - posted 14 February 2010
Two of the country's top teams have escaped disciplinary action following an incident at last year's British team final at East Newport.
Horspath and Wednesfield riders clashed in the pits following a heat six incident, in what was decribed by one witness as "the most unsavoury incident in 60 years of team finals." It is alleged that riders exchanged blows in the pits.
Despite not seeing the incident, the match referee urged officials to launch an investigation. In his report he stated:
"I did not see what started it or who was to blame ... I do feel that the unsavoury incident should be investigated by the Commission as this is one of our sport's top events. The Mayor, Welsh cycling rep and cheer leaders were present, and they must have been unimpressed."
The Commission investigated but decided not to take further action against either club.
SUFFOLK EXODUS CONTINUES - posted 14 February 2010
The exodus of Suffolk riders shows no sign of abating. Several of the county's top stars have already linked with Premier League clubs. Now, following Great Blakenham's withdrawal from top tier racing, the trickle has become a flood.
Main beneficaries are Leicester. With Dan Pike and Leon Yelland already in their ranks, the East Midlanders have also signed Adam Peck and Josh Brooke to swell their squad. Meanwhile the Osborne brothers, Chris and Lewis, have completed the paperwork to return to Horspath while Dan Osborne joins Norwich, alongside Dave and George Solomon and Leon Mower.
SHALE SUPPLIER KEEN TO LINK WITH CYCLE SPEEDWAY - posted 4 February 2010
A Midlands aggregate company is keen to supply red shale to cycle speedway clubs. Derbyshire-based Ennstone supplied the British Speedway GP at Cardiff last year.
"Our material that we quarry here at Breedon-on-the-Hill, proved enormously popular with GP riders and track people alike" said Ennstone's sales manager Angela Benzie. "Cycle speedway is an avenue we haven't yet explored, so we are really keen to be involved. We are able to blend our material to suit track's individual requirements, so I'm sure our product will be of interest to your teams and readers" Angela told spokesman-online.
WELSH CHAMPIONSHIPS' SPONSORSHIP BOOST - posted 3 February 2010
Champion System custom clothing has joined forces with Welsh Cycling and Newport cycle speedway club to sponsor this year's Welsh riders championships which will be held at Newport's international sports village track on Saturday 9th October.
The company will provide three winners jerseys and awards for all finalists including the first Welsh ladies riders championship.
HANDING OVER THE REINS AT EAST PARK - posted 3 February 2010
Roger Ellis and his wife Cindy have decided to step back a little bit from the hectic season they both had last year.
Speaking exclusively to spokesman-on-line Roger Ellis confirmed that his long ambition to return cycle speedway racing back to a track that had been left dormant for so many years had now been fulfilled. He went onto say that the events held at East Park last season had really put the track back on the cycle speedway map and it was now time for him to hand over the club to the community.
Although Roger and Cindy have decided to resign from the East Park committee, Roger confirmed that he will still be involved and will help out when needed. To this extent he has already arranged for some meetings to be staged at East Park during the 2010 season, the dates of which will be listed in this season's cycle speedway handbook.
Roger Ellis and Cindy will still be kept very busy with their responsibilities to Wednesfield Aces. Roger ended by saying that he would like to wish Albert Bentley, Chairman of East Park and everyone else associated with the club the very best of luck for the future.
TOP SPORT'S AWARD FOR VIC DUFFY - posted 2 February 2010
Last night at Colchester United football ground, Vic Duffy, founder of Colchester Stars, was presented with the Eric Chapman Award for Service to Sport at the Annual Colchester Sports Awards.
A pioneer of cycle speedway, Vic began racing on the bomb-sites of London, when the sport started. Since then he has raced, managed and run various clubs in the London area before moving to Colchester. For many years he continued to race for Great Wakering Rebels, before deciding to start up his own team in Colchester, 13 years ago.
At first they raced on grass before he and his late wife Irene spent many hours finding grants, to move the club to its own purpose built track in Shrub End, where it continues to thrive today. During this time he has been the inspiration for many youngsters in the Colchester side, and only gave up competitive racing, due to ill health, two years ago. This however has not stopped him taking on the riders at training nights.
His drive and ambition for the sport is undying. Even at nearly 80-years-old, he can be found trackside giving support to the current group of younger riders. His experience and knowledge of cycle speedway is unparalleled and his award totally justified.
NEW DATE FOR BAUGH MEMORIAL - posted 15 January 2010
Sandwell CSC are planning a new date for the now famous John Baugh Memorial meeting.
"For the last eight years it has been staged on May Day but this year we have had to give way to the Euro Team Championships at Bury" complained Pete Dalley. "Sandwell have run meetings on May Day since 1970,s and were very worried about losing this prestigious event.
"The new date planned is 31st May, Spring Bank Holiday Monday. The Baugh family were delighted that we are still putting this event on and hope that Sandwell can still attract a strong line up. Invites will now go out asap to avoid disappointment. The formula will be as usual and all competitors will have nine races each" explained Dalley. CYCLE SPEEDWAY RETURNS TO COVENTRY - posted 12 January 2010
Coventry Cycle Speedway team are all set to return to action – with the re-opening date set for Sunday 16th May 2010.
That’s the welcome news from last night’s high powered meeting of Coventry officials, held at the Millpool Public House. However, club officials stopped short of entering the Midlands League. Instead, they gave an exciting thumbs up to a calendar of challenge matches.
They will affiliate to British Cycling – as a practical step to meet insurance requirements. And, they will join the Midlands League as associate members.
Officials spent the first hour of the meeting summarising the various expressions of interest and commitment from a list of interested parties. These included current members, retired racers and members of the 2006 championship winning side, together with three riders that Birmingham had arranged on a season long loan.
After much discussion, the meeting ultimately decided that, on balance, that whilst on a `good` day some 12 riders could be available, the downside was that this would be halved on occasions. Therefore, the meeting felt they fell just short of having confidence in fulfilling all their commitments that a league campaign would entail.
The meeting heard, for example, that both Dominik Rycharski`s and Tim Metcalfe’s availability would be restricted due to `continental` style work rotas. And, an added late blow was the news that Mark Fletcher, of Birmingham, one of the three proposed `loan` riders, would be unavailable after his enrolment in the RAF was confirmed.
After the main decision was reached, officials then moved on to make plans to bring the Hearsall Common track, scene of several showbiz style British Finals in recent years, back into top condition.
The circuit will be totally weed treated in March, before track work sessions are employed to agitate, and then, remove the weeds. Dave Frith is to organise the repair of one section of the safety fence using welding equipment.
The meeting was cheered with the news that the club had not lost its prolific ability to land major sponsors. A major DIY chain has kindly agreed to supply paint and materials to paint the container and the track boundaries and in the supply of other resources.
Coventry club chairman Dave Foster announced “I am pleased to say that Coventry CSC will once again take to the track in 2010. We are delighted”.
Team boss Steve Bromwich, the mastermind of the 2006 success and key mover in signing Polish wonder boy Damian Wozny in 2005, said “Enjoyment will be the key word. We just want to, as friends, ensure that the sport continues in the city and enjoy our racing. We have no aspirations of winning anything – we have proved to everyone we can do that by sweeping all before us in 2006 and in the dashing form of Damian Wozny providing the European individual champion”.
On the same theme club secretary Jez Hughes commented “It has taken a monumental effort just to get to this stage in overcoming our `disappointments` that the sport will be aware off. We will be happy just to compete. Our past achievements, particularly on the promotional and presentational front at our British Finals, are set in stone and are now seen as the benchmarks for others to aspire”.
Founder member Tim Metcalfe said “Deep down I am little bit disappointed that a full return was just out of our grasp. However, the right decision has been made and we will look to build for 2011”.
A Midland League official said “We are delighted to see the return of the Coventry club. We have supported the club in its efforts to rejoin racing. It’s good news for the sport in Coventry, for the league and for the sport”.
Clubs wishing to arrange challenge matches against Coventry should inform the Midland League fixtures secretary Mark Winwood or email club secretary Hughes at: jezkirsty@googlemail.com
TOP COACH TO SET UP TRAINING ACADEMY IN SUFFOLK - posted 12 January 2010
One of the country's most progressive clubs has signed one of the sport's biggest names to coach their riders.
It has been confirmed that Vic Haines, cycle speedway super-star of the Sixties and Seventies will be taking over coaching and setting up a Training Academy at the Kesgrave Cycle Speedway Club. Haines, who was national junior cycle speedway champion in 1964, famously was a key figure behind the success of one of Britain's greatest-ever cyclist, Graeme Obree whose book was a best seller before being made into an award winning feature film. Club official Dave Hunting told Spokesman "This is a monumental step forward. With so many promising youngsters within the club, then this is the obvious way forward for 2010 and beyond.
"Coaching is a very important part of cycle speedway" he continued. "Bringing riders to their peak at the correct time is extremely important in this text book age of racing."
Vic will be overall in charge of all the coaching, both for the junior and senior riders, and will undertake much of this on track with the riders themselves, having just been supplied a brand new cycle speedway bike by Archie Wilkinson. Whether he will be tempted to ride in some of the veteran competitions waits to be seen, but with other veteran riders such as Gary Brown, Chris Gooch and Neil Mason on the club books, then it looks quite likely that Kesgrave will be entering the veterans club championship this coming season.
Our photo shows (from left to right) Chris Gooch, Vic Haines and Kevin Greenhalgh (complete with cigarette). Vic had just won the Whipps Cross Grand Prix.
NEW DATE AGREED FOR COVENTRY SUMMIT MEETING - posted 10 January 2010
Coventry officials are meeting this Monday (11th January) to discuss what form of racing and commitment to agree to in 2010. The meeting was snowed off last Tuesday.
The meeting will go-ahead at the Millpool Public House, commencing at 7.30pm. The meeting will be closed, with only Coventry personnel invited. The Coventry committee will be present, together with two life members, whilst Tim Metcalfe will be available to join the meeting via telephone from his Royal Berkshire home.
Members will decide whether to rejoin the Midlands League or to sign up for a campaign of challenge matches. Plans will also be discussed to bring the Hearsall Common facility back up to full racing standard.
Midland League chairman Bob Prince will be informed first on Coventry`s decision and spokesman-online will carry the first official public news of on-going developments from the Godiva city.
HALL OF FAME "A COMPLETE SURPRISE" - posted 21 December 2009
No one was more surprised to be inducted into Cycling's Hall of fame than cycle speedway super-star David Hemsley. In an exclusive, Dave told spokesman-online
"This award has come as a complete surprise to me. I wasn'st even aware that British Cycling were celebrating their 50 anniversary with this initiative. That said it makes me very proud to receive this acknowledgement of my efforts as a cycle speedway rider and that on behalf of cycle speedway our sport is being recognied on a level playing field as other cycling sports. I hope this forms a foundation for which cycle speedway can build from going forward and that other riders, officials and club members are recognised in a similar way in the future" said a suprised Hemsley.
"Though I have retired from competitive racing, I do occasionally assist the Olympic Talent Team, coaching individuals from right across the UK at Leicester cycle speedway track and it has been acknowledged by British Cycling staff that cycle speedway does offer skills that can cross into other disciplines of cycle sport.
"Over the next couple of years I hope to assist in the increase in participation in cycling, as part of my development project in Leicester includes a new outdoor velodrome and BMX track. I have secured planning permission and I am currently in negotiations with Leicester City Council about the lease details. This venture also includes the return of my beloved Leicester Lions, whom I hope to return to the track in the next year.
"I would like to take this opportunity to thank all those riders, officials and spectators in cycle speedway, of whom there are too many to mention in this short paragraph but who made my racing career a colourful and enjoyable. This award is as much for you and the sport in general, and on that note I thank you all" said an appreciative David.
SUSTRANS LINKS WITH CYCLE SPEEDWAY - posted 21 December 2009
Fifteen members of Sustrans Midlands, North East and Yorkshire attended Sheffield's Cookson Park circuit last Wednesday to see what the benefits cycle speedway can offer in attempting to get kids onto bikes. Sustrans officers go into schools explaining how healthy cycling is. Already the club have accepted a request to visit schools in the Doncaster area. The Derby officers are also exploring the possibility of setting up a cycle speedway track in their area.
No warm up was needed as the officers had already cycled the five miles from Sheffield Railway Station. So it was straight onto the cycle speedway bikes to get used to the corners, single gears, low seat positions and handlebars.
After a few minutes the officers were then split into two groups. One for the ultracompetitive types, the other for the not so competitive. With rain falling steadily throughout the conditions could have been better, but the weather didn't dampen any spirits.
There was some excellent racing throughout with everyone entering into the spirit of racing. There was also some obvious rivalries between the North and Midlands that made for some entertaining racing, and a few high speed spills (quite a few from Doncaster's Tom Collister who seemed to fall off in every race!).
The first group saw Nick Ratcliffe, Henry Norman, Kevin Kilcullen and Andy Barlow show obvious talent at the cycle speedway game. Nick and Henry had a tremendous battle (both riders recorded commendable times under 47 seconds for four laps, which compares to the Stars' own under-14 squad) with Nick winning the day on 15 points. Having scored three wins, he found to his cost that this game is not just about speed as he was held to a second place by a very good tactical ride from Kevin Kilcullen in the fourth outing.
Scorers Nick Radcliffe (Derby) 15, Henry Norman (Sheffield) 14, Vince Gibson (Lincoln) 12, Kevin Kilcullen (Darlington) 11, Alan Barlow (Newcastle) 10, Tom Collister (Doncaster) 8, Andy Adkin (Coventry) 6, Dave Clasby (Derby) 4
The second group had Sheffield's Ruth Chiat the clear winner with three winning rides, but the riders were well matched with race wins also recorded by Anna Singleton, Carl Ward, Debbie Scott and Steve Dyster. Kim Williams got into the party spirit by wearing a pink tutu and sporting fairy wings but was unable to fly to any wins, although she did lead in two of her four outings.
The only downside to the day was an awful fall for Rachel Hallett, who suffered bruised knees when crashing while attempting to pass Carl Ward.
Scorers Ruth Chiat (Sheffield) 15, Debbie Scott (North-East and Yorkshire) 13, Carl Ward (Stoke) 13, Steve Dyster (Stoke) 10, Anna Singleton (Leicester) 10, Rachel Hallett (Birmingham) 7, Kim Williams (Shrewbury) 7
The day's winner will hopefully be cycle speedway. The officers who are based in an area that already has a club are to contact the club to see what they can do to help promote the sport and get youngsters down to the tracks. This has already worked successfully at Poole, as reported on spokesman-online.
DAVE HEMSLEY INDUCTED INTO CYCLING'S HALL OF FAME - posted 18 December 2009
Former World and British cycle speedway champion Dave Hemsley has been inducted into Cycling's Hall of Fame. The Leicester-based super-star takes his place alongside cycling legends like the late Tom Simpson, Chris Boardman, Graeme Obree and Hugh Porter as one the first 50 inductees to mark British Cycling's 50th anniversary. Hemsley will receive his award at an all-star gala dinner on 20 February in Manchester.
The panel selected from 300 nominations ranging from riders to coaches, administrators to volunteers. The panel, consisting of journalists and British Cycling representatives, purposely excluded those who are still active in the sport, including elite riders still competing at international level or coaches, managers and administrators who are currently still "at the top of their game”.
We'll bring you Dave's reaction to this wonderful news soon.
Editor's Note - On behalf of all our readers and everyone connected with the sport, many congratulations Dave on this magnificent and thoroughly deserved achievement. There could be no more fitting or deserving receipient. Cycle speedway is proud of you.
TROPHY MYSTERY - posted 16 December 2009
Birmingham cycle speedway club is seeking our readers help in identifying and finding out the history of a venerable cycle speedway trophy.
"I wondered if any of your readers can help" asked club representative John Heard.
"The trophy has come into the Birmingham club's hands from former member Cliff Handshetvia via stalwart Andy James. The wording on the trophy is Coronation Trophy. As you would probably guess the first date on it is 1953 and the winners were Kingstanding A" explained John.
"Unfortunately there isn't anyone old enough at Birmingham - no, not even Bob Prince! - to shine any light on this, so any help would be appreciated!" pleaded John.
NEWPORT AIM FOR DIVISION ONE RETURN - posted 16 December 2009
Newport csc are hoping to get a team together to rejoin the South West League Division One. Currently racing in the South West Conference League for juniors, the club are keen to see senior team racing return to Spytty Sports Village in 2010.
The club will be hoping to see some former riders returning to help with their goal. A few transfers have been sent to BC which will hopefully make the Welsh club competitive.
Newport will make final decision at fixtures meeting in January when the full make up of the team will be known.
SCHOOL PUPILS HOLD PE LESSON AT COOKSON PARK - posted 4 December 2009
Competition was once again fierce as Bradfield School made their second core PE sports lesson visit to the Cookson Park circuit on Wednesday.
This time there were nine competitors and an individual formula was once again organised. Sharing first place were Josh Holder and Kyle Johnson, returning for the first time since taking his place in the Y10 grand final back in May, who each won three of their four races.
The crunch race came in heat four when Duncan Hague (who had conquered all before him two weeks ago) joined the unbeaten Josh and Kyle. The first attempt saw Duncan crash heavily into Kyle after trying an audacious move on the first lap. The re-run had Josh sprint away from the tapes to win in the quickest time of the day (46.90) with Kyle this time withstanding all of Duncan’s best efforts to pass.
Josh would have completed a splendid maximum but for coming to grief after clipping the fallen Ben Tipper in his third outing. Ben had that fall and earlier near miss when trying to pass in his first race that curtailed his score.
There was also debut race wins for Will Shepherd and Tom Smith and Jack Hellewell continues to impress with his never say die attitude, a race win cruelly taken from him as he hit the safety fence when carrying too much speed into the pits bend with an overtaking manoeuvre on Ben.
Liam Whiteman and Owen Bellwood also showed improvement from the last session with the Rockets management keen for the entire group to join the club for the 2010 Northern League squad.
The group are hoping to return in the New Year, when the consensus was to have a go at team racing.
Scorers Josh Holder 15, Kyle Johnson 15, Duncan Hague 14, Ben Tipper 12, Will Shepherd 11, Tom Smith 11, Liam Whiteman 11, Jack Hellewell 10, Owen Bellwood 9
HULL CSC TOP SPORTS CLUB OF THE YEAR - posted 27 November 2009
Last night the Hull Club won won the title of Amateur Sports Club of the Year category at the Hull and East Yorkshire Sporting Heroes and Champions awards evening.
The event held at Hull City Hall was attended by upwards of 500 people from local sports clubs and organisations from the Hull and East Riding Area as well as representatives of the city's professional clubs. The club was one of twenty two nominated and knew before the event that they had reached the final three, however they were still not expecting to win and could not believe when it was confirmed they were the winners. Club Secretary Andy Schofield accepted the award on the club's behalf in front of what was a delighted but somewhat surprised table of club members.
Rich Pawson said the award is due recognition of what the club has achieved locally over recent years and much of the credit must go to Andy Schofield who works tirelessly on behalf of the club and the sport. Details of the evening can be found at: http://www.heysportsawards.co.uk/
SOLLY'S CHARITY WHEELIE - posted 27 November 2009
Suffolk cycle speedway star Dave Solomon, who normally allows himself the luxury of two wheels to get to work, unicycled the full 3.75 mile journey, raising £600 for Children In Need in the process.
As members of the Ipswich Cycle Speedway club know, Dave has been learning to ride the unicyle for roughly a year now, often bringing the single wheel down to training, and attempting a lap of the track! But, as confidence grew, the ambitious plan to get all the way to work on one was hatched and the wheels were set in motion.
Supported by wife Sally, son George and five colleagues from work, the journey began at 7.45 am and took 45 minutes, with only two stops, one to speak live on Radio Suffolk and another to smile for the cameras of Look East. At work, Dave was greeted by a good number of colleagues, who’d all come out to see him arrive and some spare change was chucked into the buckets that Dave’s support crew had carried on the journey, receiving generous donations from members of the public.
There are currently unconfirmed reports that Dave plans to race on the unicycle next season.
WEDNESFIELD APPOINT PRESS OFFICER - posted 26 November 2009
The Wednesfield Aces club has announced the appointment of Andy Whitehouse as the club's Press Officer. Andy, the sports top photographer, was delighted to be joining the Aces. One of his principal duties will be to raise the profile of the club both locally and nationally.
Aces' Chief Executive, Paul Bodley, speaking for the club committee said that Andy's appointment was one of many that was designed to make the club stronger and more able to meet the challenges of today's sport and looks forward to a long and happy association with Andy.
TOP AWARD FOR ROBERT MAWHOOD - posted 24 November 2009
Sheffield's Robert Mawhood, head coach at the Rocket's base at Cookson Park, won the coveted Unsung Hero award at the South Yorkshire Sports Awards held at the English Institute for Sport in Sheffield.
The South Yorkshire Sports Awards are ‘to recognise and celebrate the achievements of South Yorkshire`s sportsmen and women, and to thank all the coaches, volunteers and unsung heroes who work tirelessly to make sport happen for the local community.’
"That description fits Robert to a tee" said a Sheffield spokesman, "Robert quietly goes about his enormous workload without so much as a whimper. He thoroughly deserves this one!"
The event had several categories including a win for World MTB Champion, Steve Peat, in the Senior Performer of The Year category which also saw nominations for other household names such as World Heptathlon Champion, Jessica Ennis, Katherine Brunt (England Cricket), Nicola Minichiello (Bobsleigh) and Paul Goodison (Sailing).
Dinnington RC's Dominic Hurley made it three out of three for the cycling nominees by winning the "Rising to the Challenge" award for his contribution to disability sport.
"The Sheffield club and the sport in the region would be a much poorer affair without the efforts of Robert." added the club spokesman.
IMPRESSIVE NATIONAL COUNCIL MEETING - posted 18 November 2009
Last weekend, top cycle speedway administrator Paul Bodley attended British Cycling's National Council for the first time - and left mightily impressed. Spokesman caught up with Paul to share his experiences with our readers. Here's Paul impression.
"I arrived at Cranage Hall at 4pm on Friday afternoon. Only 60 miles from home, I checked in and collected my delegates pack which included all the weekend's business. Just time to get settled before meeting my West Midland colleagues for a drink and a chat. I was a little apprehensive being one of three new boys in the group but I was made to feel very welcome and soon realised that our common interests in cycling were not so different.
"On Saturday morning the real business started over 100 delegates sat down to hear President Brian Cookson open the meeting. This was followed by an in depth review of the previous year and the coming year by Chief Executive Ian Drake who told the assembled audience of the many challenges facing British Cycling in the future - with the focus, of course, on 2012.
"Membership figures were up to 28500 and racing licences up to 13,000. Interestingly it was pointed out that the membership income was only 11% of BC annual turnover. Some mention was made of the Skyride event for 2010 and it was hoped that more information would be circulated about these events.
"There are now 173 Go Ride clubs across BC which includes our 21 in cycle speedway. The meeting also heard that more autonomy would go to the regions through the Regional Chairs Commission and it seems to me that more of our clubs should get involved with their regional boards.
"The Annual Report was discussed along with the accounts and accepted by the meeting. Chairman and President Brian Cookson gave plenty of time to discuss numerous proposals and I have to say I do not think I have ever seen a more professionally run meeting. From start to finish, slick presentation combined with efficient management made the whole event was immensely interesting and a privilege to be a small part off such a well run organisation" Paul Bodley reflected.
CYCLE SPEEDWAY MEMBERSHIP AT RECORD LEVELS - posted 17 November 2009
Latest published figures show cycle speedway membership at its highest level since the sport joined forces with British Cycling in 2000. Total membership increased by 5% this year with the number of registered members increasing to 894 compared to 849 in 2008. Of those, a staggering 273 were first year riders, representing over 30% of the total membership.
While this is very encouraging, in real terms, excluding first year riders, the cycle speedway membership base only increased by six members on the year. Clearly cycle speedway has no trouble in attracting new riders but has a real problem retaining them.
Poole, with 83 members are Britain's biggest cycle speedway club ahead of Sheffield (68), East Newport (58) and Kesgrave (55).
Premier League newcomers Birmingham have their highest number of members (24) for nine years while Great Blakenham (38), Horspath (41), Kesgrave (55), Poole (83), and Sheffield (68) also boast their best returns since 2000.
Last year's biggest club, Ipswich, have seen their number plummet by over a fifth although they still have a respectable 49 members. The Midlands also appears to have suffered this year. Leicester's numbers are down 22%, Sandwell down 32% and Wednesfield down 12% but overall numbers remain relatively healthy.
Women and girls now account for over 10% of the entire cycle speedway membership.
ARIS AND HEMSLEY TIPPED FOR PLACE IN HALL OF FAME - posted 17 November 2009
Two cycle speedway greats are highlighted as potential inductees in Cycling's Hall of Fame. Writing on British Cycling's website, editor Phil Ingham said
"Britain's cycle speedway riders once dominated the sport globally. Even if that's no longer true, we have to recognize the many world class riders we have produced over the years. Of the current generation, Lee Aris stands out and Dave Hemsley's multiple world championships of recent memory must make him a strong contender for a place in the Hall of Fame."
The Hall of Fame celebrates British Cycling's 50 years as the national governing body for Cycling in Britain. The Hall of Fame will see 50 individuals inducted for their contribution to cycling over the past five decades. Embracing the entire cycling community and all cycling disciplines, British Cycling will choose the inductees from volunteers, event organisers, race officials, coaches, athletes and influential figures within cycling.
Nominations can be made through British Cycling's website.
EX COVENTRY RIDER SERIOUSLY ILL AFTER OPERATION - posted 16 November 2009
Ex Coventry rider Chris Knapp today lies seriously ill in the Wallsgrave Hospital, Coventry, after a operation to reduce swelling on his brain after blood clots enforced surgery.
A great friend of Coventry stalwart Mark Giles, Knapp raced for Coventry in 2001 before quitting to return to his first love, Moto X.
He continued to be a loyal supporter of the club, attending many matches and employing Coventry`s Dominik Rycharski at his LFE Material Handling Company, where he was a manager. The club had hoped to use his welding skills to repair part of the Hearsall Common fence which is missing following the lack of league activity at the track in the past two seasons.
Friends and colleagues, including Mark, Dominik, Mike Allen, Joe McLaughlin, chairman Dave Foster, secretary Jez Hughes and everyone connected with the Coventry club are praying that Chris pulls through.
At their recent presentation night, Exeter Aces Cycle Speedway Club gave outgoing Secretary Mr Brian Maunder a rapturous standing ovation for his service to the club. Brian Maunder also received an engraved silver plate in recognition of his service and a photo collage to remind him of all the achievements he has helped the club to gain over his many years as the club secretary.
The track was laid out on a car park with a tarmac surface, straw bales as the outer perimeter, white plastic as the inside lines, and of course pull-across elastic tapes (who said the 50s and 60s were dead). The twelve Kesgrave riders, together with Lee Kemp from Bretford, were divided into two teams, with two matches taking place, based on a home and away formula. Although there had been a lot of rain and sleet during the morning, the surplus water was swept away, and the first match started at 12.15pm. 
Now it was time for the second match to take place, and this time all the riders were introduced to the legendary Barry Briggs, who was also press ganged to sit astride a cycle speedway bike. He spent time speaking to all the individual riders, answering their questions, and telling them all about his days as a cycle speedway rider. 
Suffolk cycle speedway star Dave Solomon, who normally allows himself the luxury of two wheels to get to work, unicycled the full 3.75 mile journey, raising £600 for Children In Need in the process. 
