CLUB CALL

 

Our Club Call pages are exclusively for club news.   If your club has a good news story, perhaps about a new sponsorship, improving your track or simply telling us about what's happening at your club, email us and we'll do our best to include your news.

 

Club Call is ideally suited to those clubs who don't have their own web-site.   Even those who do, may like to send us an introductory paragraph which we can link direct to your site, so ensuring cycle speedway followers have the widest possible choice of news.

 

Make Club Call your first page for all club news.

 

EDINBURGH BEGIN SEARCH FOR NEW TEAM MANAGER - posted 10 February 2009

 

At the recent Edinburgh Cycle Speedway Club AGM, Dave Baxter resigned from his role as team manager feeling he was unable to dedicate the required time to continue the team's success of 2008.  Although it has given the Falcons' management a headache, we thank Dave for his hard work throughout 2008, a year when the club won its first ever senior trophy, the Northern Knock Out Cup.

 

As for a replacement for 2009, there has been no shortage of applicants for the job.  The club will be deciding collectively who should take on the role and an announcement on who will be the new team manager for 2009 will be issued very soon once all applicants have been informed.

 

ASTLEY'S NOMINATIONS - posted 10 February 2009

 

Astley & Tyldesley Cycle Speedway Club were well represented at the 9th Annual Wigan Sports Awards Evening, held at the JJB Stadium, Wigan on Friday. A & T had five nominations amongst the eight categories and took third place in the Club of the Year category, behind the winners, Tyldesley Swimming and Water Polo Club, with Leigh Rugby Union Club runners-up. Over 300 people attended an excellent evening, which included a three course meal and guest speakers, including 1996 Olympic Silver medallist, athlete Mark Richardson.

 

HAWKS FLYING SOUTH - posted 3 February 2009

 

Cycle-speedway riders from Hethersett are off to Australia this weekend, leaving the snow and ice behind to face 40 degree heat. They are part of  the official Great Britain party travelling to compete in an international  series and the World Team, Individual and Pairs Championships. Jazz Abbott and  Ben Collins are in the GB Junior squad for three Test Matches while Dave Martin  is in the Ireland team for the World Cup.  Tiffany Collins makes up the Hethersett team who will compete in the World Club Championships and she will  also race in the first-ever Women's World Championship.  Also in the party is Leigh Cossey, a former Hethersett rider who still lives in the village, who  is in the full GB squad and also representing Ireland.  Supporting family  members make up the Hethersett contingent.

 

SHEFFIELD ACT QUICKLY TO REPLACE POLES - posted 2 February 2009

 

With Sheffield losing a number of their top Polish riders for the 2009 Premier League season, the club have moved quickly to secure the services of two more top of there fellow countryman.  Astley-based rider Remi Burchardt has joined Sheffield on a secondary registration and top junior rider Piotr Jamroszczyk from the Zielona Gora club has also agreed terms to represent the Stars.

 

Ex Junior U21 European Champion Burchardt is no stranger to British supporters as he starts his fourth year in this country while Jamroszczyk may not be so familiar.  The former Ostrow rider learned his trade along side top Polish junior Marcin Kolota.

 

A spokesman for the club commented   "We quickly agreed terms with Remi and to be honest we were surprised that he was still available.  He has a natural talent and we see him being a big asset to the team."  Club chairman Ian Brown commented  "Piotr Jamroszczyk was recommended to the club by our own Dariusz Pilas.  We see him as  a rider who can really play a big part in the team once he settles in."

 

With riders like Jamroszczyk, Lee Smith, Jamie Brown and Ryan Hoyland it's obvious the Stars are building a very youthful squad.  However with the likes of Burchardt, Pilas, Chris Turner, Andy Angel and Jono Birks also on board, the team begins to take on a very balanced look.  Throw into the equation the southern hemisphere connection of Mitchell Spear and Ryan Edson and the South Yorkshire side become a potent strike force.

 

Team Manager Mick Knowles added  "We still have some work to do.  In particular there is one other rider we are very keen to speak with.  Hopefully this will be done in the next week and that will be the main bulk of our squad for 2009 season."

 

SANDWELL PRESENTATION EVENING - posted 31 January 2009

 

Last night Sandwell had their annual presentation evening. Guests included former speedway rider and honorary life club member Alan Graham and British Cycling's West Midland rep Nick Yarworth.  The awards went to Ricki Johnson (Young Rider), Russ Evans (First Team Rider), Scott Millward (Second Team Rider), Lee Smith (Club Rider), Matt Smith (Most Improved Rider) and Pete Dalley (Clubman).

 

Dalley was thrilled to have won the award, despite winning it many times before.

 

"I have won this award 15 times and would like to live long enough to see someone beat that" Dalley told spokesman-online.

 

The high point of the night was Nick Yarworth's speech, following the presentations when he announced that Lee Smith had won a BCF Young Volunteer award. Lee was shocked to say the least but well deserved this recognition as he has worked very hard for Sandwell in 2008.  Lee is 17-years-old and has been at the
track on race days hours before the tapes rise, putting out equipment, helping to prepare the track, has produced match day programmes, refereed second team fixtures, worked tirelessly behind the scenes as the youngest committee member and has produced a first class presentation package to assist in the club's relocation plans.

 

"We are all very proud of Lee and wish him every success for the future" said a club official.

 

 

 

 

Lee Smith - Sandwell Rider of the Year

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pete Dalley - Sandwell Clubman of the Year

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ricki Johnson - Sandwell Young Rider of the Year

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Russ Evans - Sandwell First Team Rider of the Year

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Scott Millward - Sandwell Second Team Rider of the Year

 

 

 

 

 

 

INTERNATIONAL OPENER FOR NORWICH - posted 31 January 2009

 

Norwich Cycle Speedway Club will begin their preparations for the 2009 season when they will be staging a six-a-side three team fixture versus Ireland and Scotland on Sunday 8 March 2009.  The action will get underway at 1 pm at Eaton Park and will provide Norwich riders with a last opportunity to impress first team manager Peter Williamson before the Premier League opener at Leicester. 

 

Ireland team manager Gary Colby has expressed his delight in finalising the fixture and has hinted there maybe some new faces appearing in the famous white and green shirts come March.

In other news Norwich's Polish signings Rafal Baumgarten and Lukasz Piszczek will be arriving in Norfolk in two weeks ready to prepare for the new season.  Also Nick Myhill has transferred to Hethersett and will secondary license back to The Money Centre Stars for Premier League fixtures.  Norwich expect to make two final signings after the World Championships are completed and the respective riders return to England.

 

LEICESTER GRANT BOOST - posted 29 January 2009

 

Leicester Cycle Speedway has received a major boost with a grant of £4,500 of grass roots funding from Voluntary Action Leicester.  The funds, to be spread over a three year period, are to be used for travel and entry fees where junior riders participate.

 

“As an all inclusive club we have been trying to find ways of ensuring that everyone, no matter what their background, get an equal chance to race cycle speedway” said club secretary Tim Jarvis.  “This generous grant will make certain that we can guarantee that opportunity for the next three years.”

 

HETHERSETT CELEBRATE MOST SUCCESSFUL SEASON IN THEIR HISTORY - posted 28 January 2009

 

Hethersett-Swinton and Co held their annual general meeting and members were told of the most successful year in the club's history after extensive work on the track. They were also advised of a challenging year ahead  which starts next week with a party going off to race in Australia and a summer 
packed with British events all over the country on Saturdays and a full regional  programme on Sundays. 

 

The club will be looking to expand its membership to cope with the array of competitions, especially looking to recruit more girls and 10-16 year-olds.  A number of development centres will be held during the summer.
 
Meanwhile, the club is hoping to announce some major first-team signings before the season starts in March. The club committee was re-elected en bloc with the exception of resignations from Chris Collins and Margaret Cossey, who were both thanked for their services.
 
The club also heard this week that they have been drawn away again in  the British Team Championship, the sport's FA Cup equivalent. After trips to  Bury (2007) and Sandwell (2008) this year they face Premier League  Sheffield in June.

 

ASTLEY START PRE-SEASON TRAINING - posted 26 January 2009

 

Astley & Tyldesley Cycle Speedway Club start their pre-season training on Sunday 1 February at Gin Pit. The juniors session (under-13s) will be held between 2 and 3 pm, followed by the seniors session between 3 and 4 pm. The juniors sessions will also be held on Tuesday evenings, starting at 7pm, from 3rd February onwards, with the seniors sessions held on Thursday evenings, starting at 7pm, from 5 February onwards. Sunday sessions will run through up to and including 1 March. The first Northern League match of the season is scheduled for 8 March (fixtures are due to be issued shortly).
 
Existing, former and new riders are all invited to attend the sessions, which take place at the cycle speedway track at the Astley & Tyldesley Miners' Welfare Club, Meanley Road, Gin Pit, Astley. M29 7DW. The club has bikes and helmets for hire. For further information, please visit the club's website at www.astleycyclespeedway.org.uk or contact Mike Hack at

 

SHEFFIELD JOIN CLUBMARK SET - posted 22 January 2009

 

Sheffield Stars have become the latest in a growing list of cycle speedway clubs to achieve the Clubmark branding.
 
Following some sterling work by the club committee and British Cycling's Regional Manager, Peter Root, and Coaching and Club Development Officer, Rob Mace, the club's submission before Christmas has been met with the thumbs up.
 
Stars Chairman, Ian Brown, was quick to comment: "We were the first cycle speedway club to get the original 'Go Ride' branding back in 2002 so, when Clubmark was introduced, we were keen to get this too and show that we were a family-friendly club that people can do business with."
 
Since Brown's elevation to Chairman, the Club have made leaps and bounds and the commitment to local recruitment in 2009 sees a staggering minimum of 96 coaching sessions planned throughout the year, in addition to a racing programme that takes in Premier League, regional competition in both the North and the Midlands and local competition in both Manchester and the new Hallamshire League.
 
He continued "Clubmark is another piece in the jigsaw that we will hope will open more doors for us in schools and youth groups. This is the most important part of our development plan for the next three years at least."
 
British Cycling will be presenting the Stars with their certificate shortly.

 

EAST NEWPORT CELEBRATE CLUBMARK ACCREDITATION - posted 18 January 2009

Congratulations to East Newport cycle speedway club who were presented with their Clubmark award tonight. Over 30 riders turned up for indoor training and to watch club junior reps accept the award from Welsh Cycling representative, Anneliese Heard.

SANDWELL RELOCATION PLANS ON COURSE - posted 16 January 2009

Plans to relocate Sandwell cycle speedway track from Tividale Sports Centre to nearby Tividale Community College took a giant step forward this week when club officlals made a polished presentation to Council officials and College's senior officers.   

"The reception was extremely favourable" said club spokesman Brian Buck.  "College officials have visited our existing track and facilities and are extremely keen to accomodate us within the school grounds."

"There will be a short delay before things can be moved on though as Sandwell Council will be relinquishing control of the school next May and it will be then be administered by a Community Trust and the existing parent-teacher governing body will be scrapped and replaced by a board of trustees. We are advised though, that the trustees are extremely keen on being involved with the community and the chairman of the present governors who was present at the presentation, believes that there will be no difficulty in securing the support of the new regime and has promised to personally urge them to do so" said Buck.

"It does mean though, that we will have to repeat our presentation to the trustees after they have taken over but this gives us time to add and refine it by then. The bottom line is that they liked what they saw and we like what we have seen and all the signs are that the project will go ahead probably sometime within the next two years.

"This is far from a done-deal but we are delighted with the progress achieved so far" added Buck enthusiatically.

NORWICH TARGET CLUBMARK ACCREDITATION - posted 10 January 2009

 

On Friday 9 January 2009, Norwich Cycle Speedway Club held their annual general meeting/presentation evening at the Eaton Park Community Centre.

 

Club Chairman Glenn Grange opened the evening and welcomed everyone whilst giving a review of the 2008 season.  There has been a lot of activity off the track at Norwich during the close season with the club's Clubmark folder being submitted to British Cycling and an another Awards For All application being submitted to the National Lottery to further develop the clubs track at Eaton Park. 

 

Also there has been a lot of transfer activity as Norwich look to build on their sixth place finish in the Premier League last season.  Last season saw Norwich field a Polish rider for the very first time in 18 year old Rafal Baumgarten, and he will again be returning to action at Eaton Park together with team mate Lukasz Piszczek.  Both riders are very good friends of Ian Grange and will arrive in England in early February ready to prepare for the new season. 

 

Another new face for the Money Centre Stars will be Ireland International Tom Doyle who joins on a secondary license from Bury.  Kesgrave's Daniel Johnson has moved to Norwich on a full transfer and will be looking to break into the Stars' team ready for their first match of the season at Leicester on 15 March.  Club secretary Ian Grange also confirmed negotiations are still ongoing with three riders over proposed full transfers to Norwich, and he hopes deals will be wrapped up in the near future, however these signings may not be completed until after this year’s World Championships in Australia.  Hethersett riders Ben Collins and David Martin will again be signing for Norwich on secondary licenses to race in the 2009 Premier League.

 

As for the evening’s awards, 11-year-old Robert Warminger won the Best Newcomer award, with Liam Parker winning Junior Rider of the Year.  The clubs Director of Performance Andy Barrett won Clubman of the Year, and James Wakefield won Most Improved Rider.  Lastly Ian Grange was voted Rider of the Year by his teammates which completed and excellent season for the England international.

 

Norwich Cycle Speedway Club would like to wish Ben Collins, Leigh Cossey, David Martin and Jazz Abbott good luck for the forthcoming World Championships in Australia.  Also we would like to wish a speedy recovery to Dave Solomon after a successful knee operation in November 2008. 

 

GOOD ATTENDANCE AT BURY AGM - posted 8 January 2009
 
Stuart Howarth opened the meeting and welcomed a healthy attendance to the venue. It had been a difficult year but in common with all officials and the riders, parents and volunteers, it was time to look forward and return Bury to its rightful place.

 

Secretary Tony Mann echoed these remarks, stating that the past two years had been horrendous and had affected many people not only at Bury. However the meeting with Terry Greenwood, whilst not satisfying everything, had helped to heal some of the wounds. It was very good to see Pete Ward back on the Commission.

 

Team manager Pete Ward and captain Neil Howarth reflected on the poor attendance of riders at matches in 2008.  Despite having over 30 riders signed on, the club had to conceed one match when no one was available. However Neil had had an excellent year, Ben Scranage managed to fit more matches than expected, and it was good to Chris Parrish at the meeting. The role of club coaches was discussed with all feeling that Tom Doyle was a very good choice for the third coach. Tom promised to concentrate on all riders on practice nights.

 

Financially the club was in good health, Roland Parr detailing the expenditure.  Most welcome was the £3,500 grant that supplied a new cabin although there is more work to complete and the monies are already there, Various sponsors looked to be tied up so again this was good news. There was a commendation too for all the excellent work in the kitchens by Jenny Howarth, who is charge of the very Important catering team, that brings much needed and welcomed revenue each year.

 

Racing for 2009 will be decided at the Regional AGM on the 18 January with the club looking to regain success on the track.  Clubmark accreditation is a further target, as is the recruitment of new riders, with three coaches the Club is well set for 2009.

 

For once the club had no awards to present - however the annual Alan Turner Trophy for the rider or official who has made a major contribution to the club went to a surprised John Whiting.

 

The Committee of Stuart Howarth, Tony Mann, Roland Parr, with Pete Ward and Neil Howarth looking after the team were elected.

 

ALL CHANGE AT SHEFFIELD IN 2009 - posted 2 January 2009

 

As 2008 quietly slips away, it's all change at Sheffield as the Stars build their new team for the 2009 British Premier League season.

 

As widely reported, current World champion and Sheffield's number one rider, Marcin Szymanski, has returned home to Poland after fulfilling his contract with the South Yorkshire side.  Popular Astley-based rider Darek Kurkowski, who was nothing short of sensational while riding for the Stars, has indicated he is taking a year off to spend time with his young family.

 

With these two top riders gone Sheffield were dealt another double blow with the news that Polish stalwarts Pawel Kozlowski and Radek Sieradzki will also be returning home to Poland in 2009. Many clubs would be left reeling at such news but Sheffield have not been idle in lining up suitable replacements and team building plans are well advanced for the new season.

 

A spokesman for the club confirmed that top Australian rider Ryan Edson from the Salisbury club has agreed terms to ride for Sheffield in the 2009 British Premier League. The club further confirmed that talks were at an advanced stage with a top Polish rider and a top British junior rider to join the team; however no hints to there identity will be revealed until contracts are signed.

 

Further good news for the Sheffield faithful is the confirmation that popular Hull rider Andy Angel will be back again for the new season as will be Sheffield based riders Dariusz Pilas, Ryan Hoyland, Jamie Brown, Chris Turner and Mitch Spear. With youngsters Leon Wild, Ricky Wild and Liam Webster all waiting in the wings for there chance to move up to the top league. Popular rider Jono Birks is also looking to make more regular outings this year as he hopes to be in a better position with his work.  Recently crowned U19  British indoor champion  Ashley Birks will also hopefully be available for selection when his moto-cross bookings allow.

 

Mick Knowles has been confirmed as Premier League manager after Pat Cain stepped down after 10 years at the top. Cain commented  " It's time to ass the baton on to someone new and I think Mick is a good choice.  He knows all the riders and is very enthusiastic, I wish him well."

 

New manager Knowles commented " We have the basis of a very strong squad already in place and we have not finished adding to it yet.  We have a number of surprises still up our sleeves. It's a year of change for Sheffield but come what may we will be competitive come the start of the season."

 

Sheffield open their season with the visit of Gt Blakenham on March 15th.

 

BRETFORD CELEBRATIONS - posted 2 January 2009

 

Bretford Cycle Speedway's first Presentation Night was held at Bretford Village Hall.

 

Food was put on by the club and a disco was put on by Tessa Wallace.  All of the riders recieved a certificate and a wrapped present.    The club took pleasure in awarding an Achiever of the Year Award to young Jak Gray who has never won anything in the sport before.  He was so pleased to received a trophy his mum ended up crying. Bonus Point King went to Joe Kemp as he scored the most bonus points in the Midlands Combination League this year. 
 
Two Newcomers of the Year trophies were handed out, firstly under-10's Matt Hanbidge and under-16's Joe Dominy.  Most Improved Rider went to under-10's Harry Reesby and under-16's Rhys Thomas.  Callum Thomas recieved an award for being the Under 8's Most Inspiring Rider of the Year. Manager's Rider of the Year went to Will Hanson. He had a huge crash late September in training and has kept working hard all year.  Riders' Rider of Year was a tie between Philip Sangster and Mitch Barlow. 

 

The last presentation of the night was made to the Bretford Under 10's team. In the first year they came runners up in the British Under 10's team event only losing by a single point but they never received anything on the day. The club went out and purchased four trophies for the children, as they felt that this had to be rewarded.  Lee Kemp, Adam Bristow, Philip Sangster and Harry Smith were awarded with silver shields for being runners-up. They were overjoyed.
 
The evening was enjoyed by all.  Bretford Club thanked all its members for their support which has proved invaluable to the club. 

 

CONTRACTORS START TO LAY SHALE SURFACE - posted 28 December 2008

Our latest picture of the exciting new track development at Stoke shows all hardcore now down, the concrete starting area has been laid and shale surfaced from the starting gate to the first bend.  Work has  now stopped whilst the workmen take a well earned rest over the Christmas and New Year holiday but is due to resume on Monday 5 January.  Once the top shale is down a concrete edge, 1.3 m wide, will be laid on  the outside of the track all around the circumference and a safety fence (with  mesh) will be installed. Finally a pits area will be concreted and hopefully it will all be completed by mid January.

LEICESTER HIT BY ANOTHER WAVE OF VANDALISM - posted 22 December 2008

Whilst busy trying to repair their clubhouse from the arson attack, the Leicester club have been dealt another blow.  They have been victims of yet another break in. The metal shutters over one of the windows was forced open, not an easy task as they were bolted through the brickwork. The announcers box was also broken into.

"Luckily nothing was stolen, only because there was nothing to take”" said Tim Jarvis.  "“However, yet again we are faced with more costs to repair damage, something the club can ill afford.  I can't imagine what else we can do.  Maybe the only answer is to brick the whole place up" added Jarvis disconsolately.

MOMENTUS YEAR FOR HULL - posted 21 December 2008

Members of Hull CSC have been busy on the fundraising front during December starting with a bingo night which raised £170.  This was followed by a bag pack at the local ASDA store yesterday which raised £523.90. The profits from the annual Webb Ivory Christmas catalogue should be known in January.

 

Work is continuing at the track with new paved areas now laid in front of the two storage containers. A path from the car park to the clubhouse will be laid early in the new year. Work will also re-commence on the clubhouse re-furbishment in the new year.

 

The club can look back on 2008 as one of the best in its history both from a racing point of view and at long last been able to provide a a good track and associated facilities to both it members and visiting riders.  The aims for 2009 are to continue to improve the facilities and look to develop more junior riders.

 

Club stalwart Rich Pawson told spokesman-online "2008 also goes down as a momentus year away from the club as it saw Hull City gain Premier League football for the first time in its history.  Having travelled last season to watch them win away at West Brom and Leicester (if only the cycle speedway club was as easy to beat as the football club) amongst others  and culminating in the play off win at Wembley how can 2009 improve on that? Perhaps the club could win the league again and Hull City qualify for Europe.  Well we can all dream" said Rich.

AMAZING TURNOUT AT EAST NEWPORT PRESENTATION EVENING - posted 17 December 2008

 

An amazing turnout of 130 friends, family and members of the East Newport Cycle Speedway Club attended the club's annual presentation night on Saturday evening at Underwood Social club.
 
This year's venue had to be moved from the excellent Newport Sports Association due to the growing number of people wanting to join the well run family club and with the promise of a great night's entertainment, the crowd expected much to happen. They were not to be disappointed as the evening kicked off with an amazing display of belly dancing by the dance troupe, Minara, kindly arranged by club member Kerry Bennett. Kerry is to be congratulated on arranging an amazing venue for the party and decorating it to create a festive atmosphere and arranging one of the areas top disco outfits, Scene Disco, to play at the venue. The buffet looked splendid with a huge array of traditional Welsh food on offer to the party goers and a huge thanks must go to Bev Hughes and Mandy Absalom on producing the festive feast. 

 

The awards were presented to the riders and officials by Newport Wasps Speedway representative and friend of the club Dave Dean who wished the club well and praised them club for all the hard work they have achieved in their three years of being in existence.
 
The club carry on training indoors at the Underwood Leisure centre each Sunday evening 5pm to 7pm and this Sunday have the added attraction of the whole session being done in fancy dress so an interesting evening is anticipated

 

The East Newport winners were Most Improved Rider – Louis Harvey, Best Newcomer – Ethan Lewis, Clubman of the Year – Colin Wildy, Best Fall – Neil Power, Manager's Rider of the Year – Rob Absalom, Veterans Champion - Gilbert Davis, Open Riders Champion - Aaron Hughes, Ladies Champion - Laura Bennett, Under-18 Champion - Colin Wildy, Under-16 Champion - Aaron Hughes, Under-12 Champion - Louis Harvey, Under-10 Champion - Ethan Lewis, Under-8  Champion - Sean Bennett

 

PERFECT CHRISTMAS PRESENT - posted 15 December 2008

 

East Newport CSC have been given the perfect early Christmas present of being awarded their Go-Ride and Clubmark accreditation from British Cycling, Clubmark and the Welsh Cycling Union.  The successful application was confirmed early today after a the club were notified by South Wales cycling representative, Anneliese Heard, who was overjoyed with the success of the Welsh Club.

 

East Newport are only the second cycling club in Wales to achieve this high standard with Rhyl CC pipping East Newport to the post by only a few weeks and the first South West Club in the sport to be accredited for providing a safe and welcoming environment for young people.

 

Leaders of the club were delighted to learn that they had met with the strict criteria for the national award.  Speaking to spokesman-online earlier this evening, they said:

 

"East Newport CSC is totally focused on developing all of its members, not just as riders but as people and the Go-Ride/Clubmark award fits very well with the ethos of the club. When we started this process we made a commitment to all concerned that the club would fully embrace the Go-Ride/Clubmark philosophy rather than just fill in some forms and tick some boxes".

 

The official presentation will be made in early January at one of the club's successful indoor training sessions.

 

CONSTRUCTIVE AGM - posted 9 December 2008

 

Astley & Tyldesley held the club's AGM in the Miners' Welfare Club recently.  A very constructive meeting took place n which plans were agreed and a committee elected for the 2009 season. Priority work this winter is the completion of the club's Development Plan and Business Plan, as it looks to access funding available and expand its activities in a long term planned approach.

 

Changes to the Committee have seen Lee Phillips resign his position as Junior Team Manager, to be replaced by Brian Dickenson. Gary Nuttall stepped down as Track Manager, but retains the position of Treasurer. Brian Smith was elected as the new Track Manager. Paul Whitelegg moved into the vacant position of Development Officer, with Joanne Whitelegg becoming the Assistant Treasurer. The other post holders were unchanged.

 

The new club committee is Bill Phillips (Chairman, Go-Ride Contact), Mike Hack (Secretary, Team Manager, Coach, Press Officer),Gary Nuttall (Treasurer, Coach), Joanne Whitelegg (Assistant Treasurer), Brian Dickenson (Junior Team Manager), Brian Smith (Track Manager), Paul Whitelegg (Development Officer), Lousie Watson (Club Welfare Officer), Len Priestley (Webmaster)

 

RECORD ATTENDANCE AT PRESENTATION EVENING - posted 9 December 2008

 

Astley & Tyldesley hosted their Annual Presentation & Social Evening in the splendidly refurbished and extended Concert Room in the Miners' Welfare Club at Gin Pit. A club record attendance of 71 persons enjoyed the evening which consisted of two games of bingo, an excellent buffet, an impressive array of trophies presented to riders, an extensive range of presents awarded to officials and helpers, all rounded off with a disco supplied by DJ Lee Phillips.

 

In addition to presenting trophies won on the track in club events during the season, the following riders were recipients of the Club's annual awards, selected by the club's coaches: J. Fisher & Sons Young Rider of the Year - Adam Phillips, Rory Blackwell Cup for Best Newcomer - Ben Dickenson, North West Trophies Cup for Best Novice - Luke Jamson, Most Improved Rider - Joel Partington.

 

Astley & Tyldesley are delighted to announce a new club sponsor, in J. Fisher & Sons, a transport haulage company, of Atherton. Thanks go to Brian Smith for his efforts in securing this sponsor.

 

HETHERSETT CELEBRATE MOST SUCCESSFUL SEASON EVER - posted 7 December 2008

 

Hethersett CSC held their annual Presentation Party at Hethersett Social Club and over 60 members, guests and families shared in successes at national, regional, district and local level after what was the  most successful season in the Club's 42-year history. Top achievement was  the retaining of the British U16 Club Championship.
 
Club awards were presented on the night by Chairman John Nelson to  Dave Martin (Top Scorer & Sportsman of the Year), Dave Chambers (Best  Newcomer), Harley Hamill (Most Improved Junior), Tim Grimes (Clubman of the  Year), Dan Chambers (B Team Rider of the Year), and Jazz Abbott (A Team Rider of  the Year).

 

Bouquets were presented to Caroline Collins and Lesley Adams for  their work with refreshments and first aid respectively. Highlight was the  presentation of the impressive South-East Division Two trophy to B team captain  Ben Collins.
 
Those present were also able to wish "bon voyage" to the members and families who are part of the UK touring party to Australia in February where the Hawks will be competing in the World Club Championships for the first  time.

 

LEICESTER RISE FROM THE ASHES - posted 7 December 2008

 

Restoration of the Leicester clubhouse is well under way after the arson attack earlier this year. The whole area has been stripped and sealed with a special paint, areas plastered where required and the electrics are up and running. The kitchen has been a priority and will be the first room to be finished, painting in there is virtually complete, new units are to be fitted before the new season and new appliances need to be sourced as unfortunately most of them were damaged beyond repair in the fire.

 

"The whole place had a horrible smell of soot.  Even from outside it was pretty awful"” said club secretary Tim Jarvis. "The special sealant, whilst expensive, seems to have all but cured that and we’re confident that once it's all painted the building will be back to its former glory" added Jarvis enthusiastically.

 

The club have been helped in their hour of need with a grant of £750 from a national company who wish to remain anonymous.  This is a special one off payment and will be used to re-equip the kitchen.

 

HULL CELEBRATE REMARKABLE SEASON - posted 3 December 2008

 

Hull Cycle Speedway Club recently held their club presentation and social evening at the Milburn Club in Hull.  The main cause for celebration was the presentation of trophies to all team members of the Northern League Championship and Northern Combination League Championship winning sides.

 

Individual highlights were Andy Angell’s England appearance and British final place, Matt Beharrell’s British Youth & Junior League under-14 title and Adam Stephenson’s clean sweep of Northern League and Grand Prix senior and under-19 titles.  The most coveted trophy of the night was the ‘riders' rider’ award which was won for the second year by Adam Stephenson after a very close contest.

 

The awards were presented by chairman Derek Hilton, speedway rider Joel Parsons and East Riding community recreation officer Sarah Johnson who presented the club with framed certificates as runners-up in the East Riding ‘top club’ category.  Sarah also presented Derek Hilton and Andy Schofield with their British Cycling Yorkshire region volunteer awards for club official and club coach.

 

The evening was hosted by Paul Beharrell who had some special words of encouragement for the club volunteers who were rightly recognised for the contribution they have made to the clubs success.  The night was rounded off with an excellent buffet and disco and special thanks are due to all who contributed to the success of the occasion especially Liz and Barry Ashton.

 

The Hull club have also held their 2008 AGM and the following officials were elected as follows - Chairman - Derek Hilton, Secretary/Senior Team Manager - Andy Schofield, Treasurer - Rich Pawson, Development - Barry Ashton, Junior Team Manager - Andy Angell.

 

In addition to these positions, Andy Moody and Dan Martin are to be the club's Press Officer and website managers with assistance from Rich Pawson, and Paul Stephenson is in charge of ground maintenance. Derek Hilton and Rich Pawson continue as Go-Ride contact and Welfare Officer respectively and the club's coaches are Andy Schofield, Andy Moody and Jon Wilkinson.

 

Priorities for the club are to continue their recent success on the track, to develop the new influx of youngsters and to pursue a long term development programme for the club and its facilities.

HETHERSETT COMPETE WELL AT WALSALL - posted 3 December 2008

 

Hethersett Hawks had teams and riders at the British  Indoor Championships in Walsall but despite competing very well they did not bring any silverware home.  Best performance in the individual events came  from Ben Collins who scored 12 points in the under-16 final.  He also qualified  for the under-19 final and scored eight points.  Dan Chambers also reached the same  finals scoring 10 points in the under-19s and seven in the under-16s.  Tim Grimes had his  first taste of indoor racing and scored 11 points in the Veterans final while Dave Martin just failed to make the senior final with 11 points in the  semi-final.
 
The Hawks went out at the semi-final stage in both senior and junior team championships, finishing third in the junior semi and fourth in the senior semi.

 

CONGRATULATIONS ALL ROUND AT HULL - posted 29 October 2008

 

The celebrations have finally died down after the exciting title winning finale to the season for Hull. A big thank you from all at the club for the many complementary e-mails we have received. Its nice to see that other clubs are readily prepared to share in and congratulate us on our win which says a lot for the sport.

 

The club however will not rest on its laurels and are planning to be stronger in all departments next year.  The middle of next month sees the club AGM followed by the presentation evening at the end of the month. Also scheduled during the winter months are the annual bad pack at ASDA which usually proves very lucrative and in February a pre season social/quiz night.

 

This coming Monday the weekly five a side football commences. This is usually well supported and very competitive often resulting in more injuries than sustained during the racing season.

 

The club are currently working on a £1000 upgrade of the clubhouse, work commenced three weeks ago, courtesy of a grant received from the Sports Development Unit of East Riding of Yorkshire Council. The upgrade will see the development of new changing facilities and a club room. Both will allow us to offer improved facilities to club members/volunteers and visitors alike. The track will be re-surfaced shortly and work undertaken to install a new track watering system, improved paving and paths within the track vicinity.

 

Club members will also be spending the winter attending numerous training courses to enable us to maintain our current levels of accreditation and hopefully apply for the final and highest “level three” award from East Riding of Yorkshire Council.

 

CLUB EVENTS CONCLUDE HETHERSETT'S SEASON - posted 28 October 2008

 

Hethersett Hawks concluded their 2008 season with club events on a wet track after heavy morning rain.  The main event was the  Club Best Pairs that saw an entertaining set of races with tactical racing  testing
referee Roy Abbott's patience at times.  The eventual winners were  the favourites, Dan Chambers and Harley Hamill, but they did not have it all  their own way and only won by a single point. Dan Chambers and H.Hamill 34 J.Abbott & Dave Chambers 33 D.Martin  & M.Perkins 32 D.Adams & D.Woods 31 S.Wilcox & S.Grimes 27 B.Collins  and A.Johnson 26 P.Adams & C.Grimes 25.
 
Earlier Harley Hamill had won the Club Maiden Plate with a maximum and  there was a lot of competition for the minor placings with Danny Woods just  pipping Dave Chambers for second.  Axl Johnson won the age-related handicap  prize.
 
The club also staged its first Veterans Championship and this was won by  Mel Perkins from Dave Chambers and Tim Grimes.
 
Although the season has finished, several Hawks will be at Walsall for the British Indoor Championships in late November and then four members are off to Australia in February, two of them in the British Junior squad.

 

HAPPY BIRTHDAY EASTENDERS - posted 8 October 2008

 

Congratulations to East Newport cycle speedway club who are celebrating their third birthday today. The club arose from humble beginnings in 2005 and have gone from strength to strength in terms of riders numbers and infrastructure.

 

In a short space of time the track at Llanmartin has become one of the most used facilities in the area and regularly enjoys training sessions with more than 25 kids trying their best improve their skills.  Recently the club had more spectators for a training session than most Premier League matches could manage, such is the enthusiasm in the area for the club.

 

Without resting on its laurels though the club are planning another busy winter with development of the facilities including a paved area in front of the clubhouse and the rebuilding of the pits wall which was vandalised during the summer.

 

MONARCHS TO TOUR AUSTRALIA - posted 19 September 2008

 

Birmingham Monarchs Cycle Speedway team are to take part in the World Championship Finals in Australia this winter.  It will be a history making trip for the inform team, currently riding high in the Midland League. It will be the first time ever in the club's long history that they will have competed abroad.

 

The Perry Hall Playing Fields, Perry Barr, based club will be flying out from Heathrow Airport on 6 February. They will be competing in the World Club Championship Finals. Individual members will also be representing Great Britain in a test series against Australia.  Monarchs star man Marcus Wadhams will also be competing in the World Individual Championships. The 21 year old will start as one of the pre-tournament favourites to land the world championship crown.

 

It will cap a truly amazing up-turn in the club’s fortunes. They are presently challenging hard for the Midland League title, narrowly missed becoming British club champions, they signed their first ever foreign rider by capturing Polish ace Dominik Rycharski and dashing teenager Chris Timms became the British under-19s champion in a trail-blazing season.

 

The Monarchs will be proudly displaying the Birmingham colours at a number of venues, including several race-tracks in Adelaide, South Australia.  In addition to Wadhams, the Monarchs party will include heat leader Mark Winwood, his fast improving brother Carl, together with reserve Dean Sambrook and club stalwart Bob Prince.

 

The individual members of the Monarchs touring party are all funding the trip themselves, at a cost of £2,300 each. They are to mount an appeal shortly for local businesses in the Perry Barr and Great Barr areas for sponsorship to help offset some of the costs.

 

Club spokesman Mark Winwood “This will be a `trip of a lifetime` for our club. We are all great friends and the chance to represent our team, and the City of Birmingham, in the World Finals `down under` is a dream come true for all of us”.

 

Winwood sees the team as ambassadors for Birmingham and he will shortly be approaching Birmingham City Council for a supply of Birmingham tourist DVD’s, literature, badges and pennants in order to present them to the international competitors in Australia.

 

For further information on Birmingham Cycle Speedway, please ring Mark Winwood on 07733 126968.

 

 

COVENTRY LAUNCH NEW WEBSITE - posted 18 September 2008

Coventry Cycle Speedway club have launched a new website, another vital step in the recovery programme as the club continues to try to regroup after the events of April 2007.
 
Already consisting of 11 pages, the site will cover all facets of the club and the sport. It already covers latest news stories, fixtures and club contacts. They shall shortly be including a `Roll of Honour` page to list all the riders who have represented the club since 1978.
 
The club has a vast library of archive material and already there are eye-catching pages on memorable recent occasions, including the acclaimed 2005 British Final, the `benchmark` of promotional attainment within the sport, Damian Wozny`s European Final victory and the Civic Reception in 2006. These shall be enhanced in the future.
 
The club would like to thank Lee Webb, together with Rob and Pam Warnes, for all their help in setting up the site.  Cycle Speedway enthusiasts are invited to visit the site at: www.coventrycyclespeedway.com

 

SOMERSHAM FIND NEW RIDERS - IN A MUSEUM - posted 15 June 2008

 

Somersham cycle speedway club are on a recruiting drive for new riders.  With numbers dwindling dangerously low, they recently took part in a family fun day at The Museum of East Anglian Life at Stowmarket featuring Morris Men, dance, boxing, tennis, Wildlife Trust and so on.

The  event took place on a bright sunny day and club spokesman Peter Mittell said  that from the time the event opened at 11am they did not stop with youngsters  eager to have a go at cycle speedway, some coming back time and time again on the improvised  track.  Originally the demonstration was to have been on grass but due to the  torrential rain the previous day, a very nervous groundsman would not give the  go ahead. After a very quite bit of improvisation, a track was made on an oval  driveway in front of the museum.  While not ideal, it served the  purpose. Ipswich cycle speedway club had kindly lent Somersham various  pieces of equipment such as fencing to make the event look professional. With  the Somersham senior riders on duty riding in a match, help on the day was in  short supply. Dave Knights and family  from Ipswich CSC kindly  stepped in to help Peter on the day.

The  outcome was five new junior riders who had had a go at the museum  rode in their first match in the rearranged  Wosskow Brown British Youth and Junior  League round  at Somersham the following Saturday, 14 June.

Peter  was quoted as saying “I am  pleased as punch to have the new riders on board.  It is a testament to cycle speedway in the area, that when a club is going  through a lean time, other local clubs are prepared to go beyond the call of duty  to help with the long term future of a fellow club.” 

 

GRANT REWARD FOR LEICESTER - posted 3 June 2008

 

Leicester CSC is pleased to announce that Leicester City Council Sports Services have awarded the club a grant of one thousand pounds.

 

"This latest award comes as a result of creating a favourable impression with the City Council after they witnessed our staging of the European Club championships, which of course tied in nicely with the status of European City for Sport. However it is just the latest

cheque we have received from the council in the last year and we are extremely grateful for their continued support" Said club secretary Tim Jarvis.

 

More good news is that the new roof for the home straight spectator gallery should be in place for the visit of the Bretford youngsters on 15 June. This completes phase one of the club's ambitious plans to upgrade Glover Park into a top class sporting venue, officials are currently in negotitions with various bodies to source funding to continue the work around the first and second bends.

 

BIKE SHORTAGE THREATENS NEW VENTURE - posted 23 April

 

The new cycle speedway venture at North Shields is struggling to establish itself.   Principal mover Jack Doolan is as keen as mustard but the 15-year-old schoolboy desparately needs adult help to consolidate the club's future.

 

"I'm sad to say we don't have anything down here now.   All of our team is under the age of 15. I put an advertisement in the programme at Newcastle speedway and got one reply.   He turned out to be a very good rider - so good that Hull were interested as he was from Hull but goes to Uni up here.

 

"We only have two bikes every Saturday so there's no chance of an indi. I need adult help.   I won't go in to detail but I got spreadsheet and everything for an indi and they said we will try and bring three bikes so I was pleased with that.   In the end we had about six riders turn up but the adults only brought one bike. I'm still keen and a few lads still ask me if cycle speedway is still happening on a Saturday."

 

CHANGING ROOMS AT HULL - posted 10 April 2008

Hull CSC has just received notification that it has been awared £900 from East Riding of Yorkshire Council. The award was granted to enable to club to continue the development of facilities in the clubhouse and specifically is to be used to build a new changing facility and in turn use the space this will free up to develop the large room as a club room.

Also further good news. Matt Beharrell has been awarded £500 from Sports Aid. He was nominated by British Cycling via the Yorkshire Board. The grant is to be used to cover the cost of travel and accomodation for the British Youth and Junior League and British individual competitions.

MORE FINANCIAL SUPPORT FOR STOKE - posted 13 March 2008

 

Club treasurer Avon Allcock has had further success in a bid to secure more funding to enable the new Stoke track to be completed.   He has secured £1,600 from P.A.S.S., a partnership organised by Staffordshire Police with funding from local businesses who want to help to regenerate recreational facilities for local youngsters. The club members meet next week to decide on   how best to get the work underway with a number of members having experience in   the building construction industry.   Watch this space for progress.

 

POOLE MAKE DOUBLE SIGNING - posted 7 March 2008

Poole-Sea View Coaches have received a major boost on the eve of the new season with the capture of former British champion Gavin Wheeler and fellow Southampton star Tom Colling who will race Premier League matches for the club in 2008. Together with Thomas Reed, the latest signings will add considerable firepower to the PL squad as the club aims to improve upon their third place in last season's table.
 
"The loss of ex World champion Dan Pudney left us with a huge gap in the squad" remarked club coach Colin Sutton "but Gavin is just the rider to spearhead the campaign with the complete range of skills to compete in top flight team competition. Tom and Thomas were both unlucky not to finish on the rostrum in last year's World junior final at Poole and they both have bags of potential at this level."
 
Artur Poprawski vows he will be back in regular action mid-season on completion of his studies while Pavel Cegielski hopes to do likewise after a spell in the Army. The experienced duo of Dave Murphy and Andre Cross will once again be squad members along with all the Poole based regulars who finished the season in 2007.
 
The season will start on Sunday 9 March with a South-West match against league newcomers Exeter, giving local supporters an early opportunity to see Thomas Reed in action along with some of his new Premier League team-mates. NOTE - starting time 11.00am.

£10,000 FOR LEICESTER   CLUB - posted 28 February 2008

Thanks to yet more input from Leicester City's cycling supremo, Andy Salkeld, a cheque for a further £10,000 was presented to the Glover Park outfit today.   This generous donation from the city council takes the total raised for stadium improvements close to the £23,000 mark.

The money is to be used to replace the original safety fence.   This dates back to the original Leicester track and not surprisingly has deteriorated over the years. Also the club are to totally replace the existing stadium lighting which is currently in a sorry state and only operating at around the 30% level.

"If it wasn't for the continued support of people like Andy and the club's great friend Cllr Marriott, projects like this would not be possible" commented Monarchs' secretary Tim Jarvis. "We are hopeful that we can complete this work during April and will have a stadium to be proud of for the European Club Championships"

£12,000 UPGRADE AT LEICESTER - posted 20 February 2008

 

Leicester City Council have made further funding available for the construction of a new roof for the away side of the Glover Park pits.   Although work will not be completed for the start of the season, the new structure will be in place for the European Club Championships. This will take the total spent on the stadium to over £12,000.00 this winter, just part of the club's ambitious development plans.

The Leicester committee would like to thank the City's cycling co-coordinator Andy Salkeld and Councillors Marriott and Naylor for their continued help and support.

 

E-SPONSOR FOR E-NEWPORT - 18 February 2008

 

East Newport CSC have taken another giant leap towards becoming a professionally organised cycle speedway club by securing a unique and most welcome sponsorship deal with a top web design company based in the West Midlands. Cornix designs, a company

owned and run by Phil and Ian Crowe has always had strong ties to arguably the sport's top-most club, Wednesfield Aces, who

themselves epitomise the mark of excellence which has seen them win every domestic trophy the sport has within their time.

Phil's presence there is an extension of this attitude and now East Newport have managed to tap into this valuable resource by using his skills to create a new club website www.eastnewportcsc.co.uk . The club started out as a group of friends who used the freewebs based provider under the title of Pedalheads.

 

Club chairman Rich Hughes takes up the story. “The Freewebs website was ok as a starter but we found the restrictions on having a low bandwidth and limited designs restricted the growth and professionalism we as a club aspired to achieve. We aim to be a professionally run club and to succeed. We have to have the best web displays, posters and leaflets to portray our intention. So far it's working really well as our membership is growing each month and we would like to thank Phil for taking up the baton and producing this excellent web display.”

 

Club junior representative, 12 year old Louis Harvey, was excited at having his profile put on the new site and was even more thrilled at being awarded a new nickname which has become somewhat a tradition at the progressive Welsh club. East Newport operate at senior and junior levels in the Wales and West League and have stepped up to the national arena by entering the British Team Championships and the Euro club event held at Leicester in May.

 

If you wish to take advantage of our lively forum then please follow the easy steps to register and if you would like your club/organisation linked to our site please mail Rob Absolom   directly and who   will be happy to oblige providing your site is accepted as being appropriate.

 

JUNIOR BIKES FOR ASTLEY - posted 17 February 2008

 

Astley & Tyldesley are pleased to announce that Wigan Council has   awarded a grant of £671 from their Community Chest fund. An application for £900 was made by Astley & Tyldesley Development Officer Aimee Hack, for the purchase of six junior 24" wheel cycle speedway bikes, for use by youngsters at the club's practice sessions.

 

Club spokesman Mike Hack stated that "The award is most welcome in that it fills the gap between our range of 20" wheel and 26" wheel bikes, bringing the club's stock of bikes up to 29. As a Go-Ride Clubmark accredited club, we are continuing to increase accessibility to our facilities, so that more youngsters can participate."

 

GRANT BOOST FOR EAST NEWPORT - posted   13 February 2008