Another healthy turnout for the Over 50s and 60s but a slightly subdued juvenile entry this time on a beautiful day in the West Midlands.
I look forward to unearthing someone else's report as I've probably forgotten most of it already! Anyway, herewith the programme and stats sheets.
Big shout out (I think that's the popular phrase) to Andrew Yard, Paddy Wenn, Glyn Morgan, Steve Copping and Ray Pyke for putting the miles in to join us today in these difficult and expensive times for leisure travel.
With more than a little "unusual" activity on the track today I think a timely reminder may be in order that we are, or at least we aspire to be, the Gentlemen of Cycle Speedway who should really be setting an example for those who follow. A couple of startling events today didn't quite fit our mould and one or both could have resulted in injury to onlookers, not good at all.
On a lighter note it was great to see our Main Man Fred Rothwell back racing today after a lengthy layoff with his ankle trouble, looking like a spritely 40 year old again :). He'll be more than encouraged to have beaten the current Champion today. Series returnee, former British Vets Champion and World No 2 Gavin Parr, now elevated to the Over 50s, made a stunning 2022 debut and we hope to see more of him in this year's competition too. And homester Chris Jewkes amply demonstrated his mastery of the Ashmore Park track with a stunning performance for the locals to cheer.
On a personal note it was great to have a bit of speed back but as I approach the first anniversary of my shattered thigh and hip bones I've had to accept my once half-decent gating days are over, however I enjoy the chase probably more than ever now and sure did today.
Geoff Gamage takes up the story:
Image courtesy of Andy Whitehouse:
Phil's racing days are over but he hopes to be able to at least ride a bike sometime in the near future.
PLEASE LET ME KNOW IF YOU SPIT A MISTOOK :)