PREVIEWS

TAPES UP ON INAUGURAL WOMEN’S EUROPEAN GRAND PRIX – posted 1 August

 

Holiday and other commitments have reduced the field for Saturday’s all-star women’s event at Horspath, culmination in the first staging of the GG Express Couriers Women’s European Grand Prix.

 

“Unfortunately there would appear several riders who would normally compete in the  Women’s League are on holiday this week, so it looks like we are having to put together the best programme we can” explained principal organiser Geoff Gamage.  “It’s somewhat disappointing when you consider that it has been in the fixtures and the handbook all year” added Geoff.

 

As a consequence there will only be one Regional Fours event.  The North especially have a number of girls missing including their top rider and Team GB women’s captain Vicky Brown but will build their four around Sandra Tambroska and Ellie Sullivan. The East will be spearheaded by British and European champion Lauren Jacobs and the in form Dani Riley.

 

The South & South Wales have the regular trio of Charlie Jane Herbert, Lauren Hookway and Rebecca Davies.  Kristina Mines though is unavailable and the back-in-the-saddle former British champion Livvi Horsley is working until 3pm.

 

The Midlands should have a big squad to choose from.  Lucy Whitehead, Michelle Whitehead, Laura Watson, Charlie Ellits and Jenna Whitehead should feature prominently.  It will be a 24 heat formula raced in pairs.

 

Following the team event will be the regular Women’s League Under-16 Grand Prix.  This is open for entries on the day.  Leading the pack thus far is Lauren Hookway (pictured above) and Ellie Sullivan.

 

To round off an exciting day of women’s racing there is the GG Express Couriers European Grand Prix which incorporates the Women’s League Over-16 GP. This is being run over the 20 heat individual formula.  There will be two semi finals as per the speedway GP.  Losing semi finalists receive £25, then a final again as per speedway GP.  The winner gets £150 plus trophy, second £70 plus trophy, third £50 plus trophy and fourth £30.

 

D,C and B finals (losing semi finalists) will be held for Women’s League Grand Prix Over-16 series points.  The grand final result will act as A final points.

 

Horspath's Livvi Horsley (pictured above) makes her comeback in this her main sponsor’s event.  She should be joined by a very strong field led by Polish star Sandra Tambroska who recently signed for Torun.  Rebecca Davies will be flying the Welsh flag.  England will have a strong hand with Lauren Jacobs, Lauren Davies, Lucy Whitehead, Michelle Whitehead, Dani Riley, Charlie Jane Herbert, Lauren Hookway, Laura Watson, Ellie Sullivan, Jenna Whitehead, Charlie Ellits, Natalie Timms besides Livvi Horsley.

 

At time of writing it looks like there are a couple of spaces.  These will be firstly open to over-16s but may be filled with under-16s. Former British champion Rachel Edge is presenting the prizes on behalf of her sponsor whilst referee for the day is Robin Spicer.

 

It all starts with a lightish Team GB session due to the extent of the days racing, which includes not only those going to Australia but other riders who cannot go and have been invited on the original letter. Team GB coach Stuart Raven will be organising the programme with Team GB women's manager Geoff Gamage also on hand.

 

The day’s timetable is 11.30am Team GB training.  1 pm Women’s League Regional Fours. 3.30 pm Women’s League Under-16 Grand Prix. 5 pm GG Express Couriers Women’s European Grand Prix (incorporating over-16s’ Women’s League grand prix).

KIDS CHARITY MATCH SET TO SMASH RECORDS – posted 19 February 2013

 

Friday 20th September will see the second charity race meeting hosted by Wednesfield Aces.

 

“Last year saw Balls to Cancer benefit from the staggering £2,000 raised by 16 non cycle speedway riders compete head to head over 16 heats” said coordinator Gyln Rowley.

 

“This year we are planning the same formula with many of last year’s competitors having another go.  The beneficiary of this year’s event is The Birmingham Children’s Hospital where we plan to smash last year’s totals.

 

“A Just Giving Account has been set up ready, so please show your support and donate to www.justgiving.com/WednesfieldAces

 

“Anyone who doesn't ride and fancies competing please contact me, Glyn Rowley, on 0774 201 5555 or email [email protected]” said Glyn.