The FIM European Grand Prix from Leszno was one of the most hotly contested and best that we have seen in quite some years, and I'm not just talking about the spectacular final. Poole Pirates and Australia star Chris 'Noddy' Holder stormed to take the chequered flag and a vital win in his 2012 SGP campaign ahead of crowd and bookies' favourites Tomasz Gollob and Jarek Hampel with World number 2 Andreas Jonsson in fourth.
The meeting was a joy to behold with passing appearing from the first round of heats - a rarity in the past few seasons - that lit up an expectant crowd after the bonanza in the previous round from Auckland. Home favourite Tomasz Gollob got off to a poor start scoring just a single point from his first two rides, whilst wild card Przemyslaw Pawlicki won both of his opening rides only to pick up one point from his final three, meaning that he missed out on the semis. Defending World Champion Greg Hancock solidly scored in the qualifying heats to accumulate nine points; enough to see him through to the semis where his bike packed up, sending him home early.
Speaking of engine problems, it was another horror show from the sole British representative Chris Harris who managed just three points from his five rides, two of which his bikes were unable to see him through to the finish. It seems as though the £20,000 that he recently spent has been money down the drain.
After a disastrous start, finishing last, Holder was able to rustle up a 10 point haul, giving him first choice of gates in his semi-final which he took full advantage of, passing Jonsson to take the three points and another first pick of the gates for the final. In the other semi, Hampel led home his countryman Gollob, forcing the impressive and consistent Crump and Bjerre to miss out on the final.
And what a final it was. Pundits around the world were unable to see any other result than a Polish one-two finish. Little did they know that Holder was going to completely re-write the script. After a poor start the Aussie was last but managed to clamp Jonsson down on the inside and ease passed him. Whilst that manoeuvre was ongoing Gollob had forced leader Hampel out wide in order to pass him, leaving a big enough gap for Holder to follow through. Normally in Poland that would be that and I would be here writing about another master-class from Gollob on Polish shale. But I am not. Indeed, it was Holder in an Adams-esque move on his 41st birthday who stole a march around the kerb, gaining enough grip to speed passed the 2010 World Champion to stun the Leszno crowd as Holder held on to take the crown.
This win shows that Holder's head just wasn't in the right frame of mind in New Zealand after the birth of his son Max only hours before tapes up. On this sort of form he can definitely challenge for a World Championship medal and a marked improvement on the consecutive eighth places that bely his class. Although to do that he will have to overhaul current leader Hampel, defending World Champion Hancock and former World Champs Gollob and Crump. If Auckland and Leszno are anything to go by, then this truly is going to be an exciting SGP series
Sunday 29 April 2012
Tuesday 3 April 2012
2012 Speedway Preview
As the Speedway Star has just released its 128 page edition previewing the impending season; so I thought that it was about time that I shared my thoughts on how the Elite League is going to shape up.
1st Lakeside Hammers
Over the winter the Hammers’ management have made some very astute signings that I feel will guide them to the top of the table and a first league title since they rejoined the top division. Their top three of Peter Karlsson, Davey Watt and stalwart Lee Richardson provides them with a spearhead that has an abundance of experience that will score double figures at home and away. Neil Vatcher and Jon Cook have also been able to provide their trio with solid back-up in the form of doubling up riders Stuart Robson and Kauko Neiminen as well as Robert Mear and Kim Nilsson most likely interchangeable at reserve throughout the season. I just feel that it’s this strength in depth, especially away from home that will see the Hammers crowned the league champions.
2nd Poole Pirates
After getting the controversial ‘one eight point rider per team’ rule overturned the Pirates have been able to keep hold of powerful Australian duo of Chris Holder and Darcy Ward. Matt Ford has built a team in a completely opposite way than his counterparts from Lakeside. With continued success from their Australian import policy, Poole have enhanced its Aussie flavour with the additions of the 2011 Premier League Rider’s Champion Sam Masters and Elite League newcomer Todd Kurtz. A lot of the Pirates’ success will depend on the back-up given to Holder and Ward who will regularly score between 12 and 15 points a meeting. Dennis Andersson will have to continue his progress along with the new arrival of Adrian Medzinski. The Pirates will certainly be strong contenders for the title, but I think that Lakeside will just pip them to it.
3rd Swindon Robins
Rosco has returned, bringing with him a lot more influence to the team building table. Last season their top rider was Scott Nicholls on 7.78, a poor season by his standards, and very little to back him up. However, 2012 looks to be much brighter for Robins’ fans as they have a true number one in the form of Danish World Cup star Hans Andersen. Unlike last year, Andersen will have plenty of back up from Troy Batchelor (controversially) and Simon Stead, who can definitely improve his 6.43 starting average. The strongest part of this team though, is being able to have either Nick Morris or Peter Kildemand in one of the reserve positions, making them powerful play-off contenders.
4th Peterborough Panthers
Widely tipped in the Speedway Star to have an average season, I think that they will surprise a few people. Having watched a lot of Linus Sundstrom from his two years at Rye House and his debut Elite League season with the Panthers, I can only see the young Swede progressing well again this year. He is the main back-up to the returning Kenneth Bjerre and will have to score double figures on a regular basis. Although he is being tipped as the key to this team, the real key lies at reserve with Michael Jepsen Jensen. Much like Swindon, the Panthers will be able to interchange Jensen with the experienced Dane, Jesper B Monberg. I can certainly see the Panthers having a successful season, especially if new co-manager Jan Staechmann can gel his team together and get them to perform as their potential suggests.
5th Birmingham Brummies
A disappointing debut Elite League season has seen their team-building search for a reliable number one, which they have found in Bjarne Pedersen. The experienced Dane led Eastbourne to the play-off final last season in a team that was built on solid averages, without a stand-out performer. The Brummies have done something similar, bringing back Danny King and Ben Barker. To them, they have added former Grand Prix star Sebastian Ulamek and rising star Josh Auty. It is this powerful top five that should score enough points to win them plenty of meetings home - and against some of the weaker teams – away, but just missing out on the play-offs.
6th Coventry Bees
The Bees have lost a lot this winter: their owner and their manager. They, of course have been replaced, but not, in my opinion well enough. However, their team building has been relatively successful as they have recalled both Scott Nicholls and Grand Prix star Chris Harris to be added to Edward Kennet (returning from his six month ban). The three British heat-leaders provide a competent frame for Kenni Larsen to support from the middle order. The reason that the Bees don’t feature higher up on this list is because of the lack of consistent back-up to be provided to their top four. Consequently, I think that they will struggle to pick up points away from Brandon and will possibly get beaten at home by some of the stronger teams.
7th Kings Lynn Stars
Placing the Stars this low down does looks very harsh, especially considering that they managed to reach the play-off in their returning season last year. However, they have lost Kenneth Bjerre from last year and simply have not replaced him. Effectively, each member of last years’ team has moved up in the hierarchy, meaning that Neils-Kristian Iversen is now number one and Mads Korneliussen number two. This isn’t strong enough to lead them into the play-offs for a second consecutive season. Rob Lyon has added the World Under-21 Champion Maciej Janowski, but he is no replacement for Bjerre.
8th Wolverhampton Wolves
Spearheaded once again by Flying Freddie Lindgren Wolves clearly haven’t learnt their lesson from last season where they built a top heavy team, which didn’t work out too well. If Tai Woffinden can have an injury free season, he can certainly improve on his 8.52 average and challenge Lindgren for the number one race jacket. Like last season they are lacking back-up from their reserves, which are key to any meeting. Luckasz Sowka is a newcomer to the league and doubling up riders Ricky Wells and Thomas Jorgensen have not really impressed at the highest level, leaving Wolves with very little support to their big scorers.
9th Eastbourne Eagles
Much like Kings Lynn the Eagles have lost their number one (Bjarne Pedersen) and have replaced him with Denis Gizatullin, a rider of less quality than the one they have lost. This change has meant that Joonas Kylmakorpi has moved into the number one slot (when he returns from injury), a position that I feel he is not capable of. A lot of their season will depend on the progress of youngsters Simon Gustafsson, Lewis Bridger and Timo Lahti. Lahti has looked much better in pre-season and Bridger looks hungry for the success that he almost tasted in last season’s play-offs. Unfortunately I can’t see them repeating their feats of last year and are going to be struggling in the cellars of the league.
10th Belle Vue Aces
Unfortunately in every league there has to be a team awarded the wooden spoon, and this year it looks like it is going to be the Aces. They have retained the Elite League Riders Champion Rory Schlein, but failed to back him up with any real, consistent quality. They have drafted in fellow Aussie Adam Shields, who is extremely prone to big injuries, as is Charlie Gjedde. Much of their potential success or failure will rest on Patrick Hougaard who has flattered to deceive in the past few seasons. The Dane has failed to achieve what his potential has suggested. As such, I can only really see the Aces propping up the rest of the table.
Sunday 18 March 2012
#PrayForMuamba
Last night the football world was shocked by the sudden collapse and subsequent fight for life of the Bolton Wanderers midfielder Fabrice Muamba. I was fortunate enough to only be listening to those horrific events via the radio. Having listened for around two hours past the incident it became very obvious the emotions of distress, worry and numbness that surrounded White Hart Lane and everyone watching.
Many reporters and fans recounted how Muamba was completely on his own and untouched by an opposing player, meaning that this was a medical emergency. As such, referee Howard Webb and players from both teams were swift in their reaction to call on the medical staff. Whilst Muamba is a Bolton player the Tottenham medical staff were also heavily involved, the first instance regarding the charitable actions of those connected with Tottenham - obvious I do recognise that any medical team, realising the gravity of the situation would do exactly the same. There were also rumours that a member of the crowd, a heart surgeon, rushed onto the pitch to aid the stricken midfielder.
The sheer weight of attention surrounding Muamba related through to the crowd who immediately began chanting his name. This is the second instance of fantastic behaviour as the Spurs fans joined in with the chanting. This a player who came through the Arsenal academy. Of course, that does not matter, and it made me proud to hear that football shirts and allegiances were stripped away for the shared prayer in the safety of the former England under-21 international.
It was evident that the game could not continue as managerial staff, playing staff and fans alike were too distraught by the events of witnessing a 23 year old Premier League player being administered CPR and being shocked with defibrillators in order to keep him alive. Howard Webb made a swift and correct decision to abandon the game which was greeted with a round of applause from all four stands as was Muamba when he was carried off of the pitch, still trying to be resuscitated.
As the events unfolded, the hashtag PrayForMuamba, was top of the trending list on the social networking site Twitter. Messages of prayer and goodwill towards this young man came pouring in as he was taken to hospital in the continuation in the fight for his life. News on his condition was eventually released on BBC Sport revealing that Muamba was indeed alive, but in a critical condition in The London Chest Hospital and faces a crucial 24 hours in intensive care.
I like many others am not a religious person, yet I find myself praying for the life of the Bolton midfielder. As a Spurs fan I am also very proud of the way my club and fellow fans acted in light of the events that unfolded last night. It puts the push for Champions League football and the money and prestige that comes with it into significance. So come on Fabrice, I would happily sacrifice all future European involvement of Tottenham Hotspur Football Club in exchange for your survival.
My thoughts, like everybody else's are with his family and close friends.
Many reporters and fans recounted how Muamba was completely on his own and untouched by an opposing player, meaning that this was a medical emergency. As such, referee Howard Webb and players from both teams were swift in their reaction to call on the medical staff. Whilst Muamba is a Bolton player the Tottenham medical staff were also heavily involved, the first instance regarding the charitable actions of those connected with Tottenham - obvious I do recognise that any medical team, realising the gravity of the situation would do exactly the same. There were also rumours that a member of the crowd, a heart surgeon, rushed onto the pitch to aid the stricken midfielder.
The sheer weight of attention surrounding Muamba related through to the crowd who immediately began chanting his name. This is the second instance of fantastic behaviour as the Spurs fans joined in with the chanting. This a player who came through the Arsenal academy. Of course, that does not matter, and it made me proud to hear that football shirts and allegiances were stripped away for the shared prayer in the safety of the former England under-21 international.
It was evident that the game could not continue as managerial staff, playing staff and fans alike were too distraught by the events of witnessing a 23 year old Premier League player being administered CPR and being shocked with defibrillators in order to keep him alive. Howard Webb made a swift and correct decision to abandon the game which was greeted with a round of applause from all four stands as was Muamba when he was carried off of the pitch, still trying to be resuscitated.
As the events unfolded, the hashtag PrayForMuamba, was top of the trending list on the social networking site Twitter. Messages of prayer and goodwill towards this young man came pouring in as he was taken to hospital in the continuation in the fight for his life. News on his condition was eventually released on BBC Sport revealing that Muamba was indeed alive, but in a critical condition in The London Chest Hospital and faces a crucial 24 hours in intensive care.
I like many others am not a religious person, yet I find myself praying for the life of the Bolton midfielder. As a Spurs fan I am also very proud of the way my club and fellow fans acted in light of the events that unfolded last night. It puts the push for Champions League football and the money and prestige that comes with it into significance. So come on Fabrice, I would happily sacrifice all future European involvement of Tottenham Hotspur Football Club in exchange for your survival.
My thoughts, like everybody else's are with his family and close friends.
Tuesday 6 March 2012
QPR: The Four Year Plan
The BBC documentary that aired last Sunday (4th March) followed the turbulent off field relations and on field results of West London football club Queens Park Rangers (QPR). Having saved them from liquidation, Formula1 moguls Flavio Briatore and Bernie Ecclestone fashioned a take-over, with a vision to implement a four year plan that would culminate in QPR's promotion to the Premier League.
The issue of money that has surrounded football in the past decade is especially key at this time after both Rangers and Portsmouth went into administration and Midlands clubs Birmingham City and Coventry City had transfer embargoes enforced upon them. Unlike fellow billionaire owners such as Roman Abramovich and Sheikh Mansour, the QPR owners looked to stabilise their new purchase whilst delivering success. Obviously, they were a championship club and could therefore not attract the top names in football; however, they could have spent far more money than they actually did.
With money comes great expectation, especially, the documentary revealed, from Briatore. His ruthlessness from the stands was an aspect that made upsetting viewing as his passion for success was articulated in fiercely scathing attacks on his employees: the playing and coaching staff. Such views led to first manager Iain Dowie being sacked after only 15 games in charge, to be replaced by Paulo Sausa. Briatore in this time was heavily involved attending training sessions, invading the changing rooms and watching reserve matches issuing instructions to his manager.
Come the transfer window, Sausa and Briatore clashed over the loaning of Dexter Blackstock to Nottingham Forest. Sausa claimed that he went on holiday and had no knowledge of this business. Briatore released Sausa from his duties as manager for a breach in his contract. Sausa was replaced by the equally ineffectual Jim Magilton and subsequenlty Paul Hart who lasted a pitiful month in the job before resigning.
Briatore on many occassions decided that the club needed a 'strong manager' who was given the direction to work with the current squad and win games, then they would not be pestered. That man was Neil Warnock, noted for his no nonsense managerial style. At the beginning of the 2009/2010 season Briatore stepped down as QPR chairman, deciding to stay away from club affairs other than finances. With this freedom Warnock was able to create an atmosphere in which he was comfortable working within as were his players. As a result QPR went on to make an unbeaten start to this league campaign, their best for 63 years.
It seems that with the encroachment of an owner on proceedings, it is difficult for a manager to do his job effectively. Whilst QPR is a good example an even better one can be seen only a few miles away at Chelsea. The instant success demanded by Russian owner Roman Abramovich only serves to create a cauldron of pressure on the manager and his players. Pressure that young manager Andres Villa Boas appeared to struggle under leading to his premature dismissal only last weekend.
Abramovich's demands have not only been on the way in which Chelsea play and the results that that heeds, but also on the players brought into the club. Most strikingly was the purchase of Ukrainian striker Andrey Shevchenko who was easily passed his best form, yet manager Jose Mourinho was forced to use him. Likewise, Carlo Ancelloti was handed an overpriced and out of form Fernando Torres. After previously delivering the double and guiding this Chelsea side to second in the Premier League, the Italian was still given his marching orders in favour of AVB.
Whilst Briatore and Ecclestone have sold their shares to Malaysian tycoon Tony Fernandes, their management is a clear example of how detachment is often the best policy. When observing their West London neighbours it is clear that there is an example of how not to run a football club.
The issue of money that has surrounded football in the past decade is especially key at this time after both Rangers and Portsmouth went into administration and Midlands clubs Birmingham City and Coventry City had transfer embargoes enforced upon them. Unlike fellow billionaire owners such as Roman Abramovich and Sheikh Mansour, the QPR owners looked to stabilise their new purchase whilst delivering success. Obviously, they were a championship club and could therefore not attract the top names in football; however, they could have spent far more money than they actually did.
With money comes great expectation, especially, the documentary revealed, from Briatore. His ruthlessness from the stands was an aspect that made upsetting viewing as his passion for success was articulated in fiercely scathing attacks on his employees: the playing and coaching staff. Such views led to first manager Iain Dowie being sacked after only 15 games in charge, to be replaced by Paulo Sausa. Briatore in this time was heavily involved attending training sessions, invading the changing rooms and watching reserve matches issuing instructions to his manager.
Come the transfer window, Sausa and Briatore clashed over the loaning of Dexter Blackstock to Nottingham Forest. Sausa claimed that he went on holiday and had no knowledge of this business. Briatore released Sausa from his duties as manager for a breach in his contract. Sausa was replaced by the equally ineffectual Jim Magilton and subsequenlty Paul Hart who lasted a pitiful month in the job before resigning.
Briatore on many occassions decided that the club needed a 'strong manager' who was given the direction to work with the current squad and win games, then they would not be pestered. That man was Neil Warnock, noted for his no nonsense managerial style. At the beginning of the 2009/2010 season Briatore stepped down as QPR chairman, deciding to stay away from club affairs other than finances. With this freedom Warnock was able to create an atmosphere in which he was comfortable working within as were his players. As a result QPR went on to make an unbeaten start to this league campaign, their best for 63 years.
It seems that with the encroachment of an owner on proceedings, it is difficult for a manager to do his job effectively. Whilst QPR is a good example an even better one can be seen only a few miles away at Chelsea. The instant success demanded by Russian owner Roman Abramovich only serves to create a cauldron of pressure on the manager and his players. Pressure that young manager Andres Villa Boas appeared to struggle under leading to his premature dismissal only last weekend.
Abramovich's demands have not only been on the way in which Chelsea play and the results that that heeds, but also on the players brought into the club. Most strikingly was the purchase of Ukrainian striker Andrey Shevchenko who was easily passed his best form, yet manager Jose Mourinho was forced to use him. Likewise, Carlo Ancelloti was handed an overpriced and out of form Fernando Torres. After previously delivering the double and guiding this Chelsea side to second in the Premier League, the Italian was still given his marching orders in favour of AVB.
Whilst Briatore and Ecclestone have sold their shares to Malaysian tycoon Tony Fernandes, their management is a clear example of how detachment is often the best policy. When observing their West London neighbours it is clear that there is an example of how not to run a football club.
Friday 6 January 2012
The Winners and Losers of the Festive Period
Every football fan knows that titles, European qualifications and relegations are not settled at Christmas. However, as the league creeps past the half way point for most teams, it is a good time to make informed predictions and see who had a merry festive period and who was left with a lump of coal.
Winners
Sunderland: Martin O’Neill has only been in charge for six games and in that time he has seemingly transformed a team spiralling into the relegation places into a team that looks as though it could compete for European qualification spot as pre-season suggested. Steve Bruce’s last game in charge was a demoralising home defeat to Wigan. Only a few weeks later and Martin O’Neill takes the same side to the DW Stadium and inflicts a crushing 4-1 loss on the home team. The festive period has seen Sunderland only drop two points - at home to Everton - propelling them up to a lofty 10th position.
Tottenham: Harry Redknapp’s men just keep marching on. After their demolition of Norwich on the 27th of December the Spurs juggernaut looked unstoppable; until it came up against the Liberty Stadium fortress and the Swans that inhabit it. Redknapp was high in his praise for Brendan Rodgers’ men highlighting just how good a team Swansea are, especially on their own turf. After narrowly hanging onto a point it was a tough home game against West Brom where Spurs had to deal with injuries to Sandro, William Gallas and Jake Livermore whilst already being without Scott Parker. Most Spurs fans will tell you that last season this is a game that they would have probably lost; however, this year’s Tottenham side seem to have more steel and have gone to within three points of Manchester United with a game in hand.
Blackburn: When looking at the fixtures coming up for Steve Kean it looked as though he was a goner. Successive trips to Anfield and Old Trafford could not have been stadiums that any fan wanted to see, let alone fans of a club struggling at the bottom of the league. However, to Steve Kean’s and Blackburn’s credit they came out of those fixtures with four massive points. A 1-1 draw at Liverpool and a shock 3-2 win at Manchester United that no one saw coming. Despite these astonishing results they did then lose at home to Stoke and are propping up the Premier League, so they are unlikely winners of the festive period. But, one win could lift them to 16th and after confidence boosting performances such as those; they could be a dark horse to survive until next season.
Losers
QPR Three festive fixtures and only one point collected. Not a total disaster if like West Brom you faced Manchester City, Everton and Tottenham. However, the R’s had to contend with the two sides that they beat to the Championship title last year and a trip to the Emirates. Granted, no one expected them to get anything from Arsenal, and they didn’t, but Wolves managed to gain a point, showing that it can be done. The solitary point that they did earn came at Fortress Liberty, which is a good point for Tottenham, so still a good one for QPR. Nonetheless, considering the money that they have had to spend and the fact that they finished higher in the league than Swansea, perhaps they should be faring better in this higher division? Admittedly they were very unlucky against Norwich when they had captain Joey Barton sent off for a non-descript head-butting incident. Conversely, they still had to pick up points in these games, subsequent failure has left them only one point above the relegation zone.
Arsenal The Gunners have been an indifferent team this season. After a dreadful start they managed to put their season back on track, stringing together a few decent results. And then it struck again. A poor draw at home to Wolves was followed by an unconvincing win against struggling QPR only to be finished with a loss at Craven Cottage in injury time after leading the match for a lengthy period. Four points out of a possibly nine has left them a point behind fourth placed Chelsea, but six behind third placed Spurs. On top of this, talismanic returning Gunner Thierry Henry’s two month loan signing has been stalled because of failure to agree dates with his parent club New York Red Bulls.
Chelsea AVB has not had the smoothest of introductions to English football with some fans calling for his head already just because he has not had the instant success of his mentor Jose Mourinho. Failure to dispose of both Fulham and Aston Villa at home left the Stamford Bridge crowd exceptionally frustrated and anxious about the following game at Wolves. Despite an unconvincing performance and a large slice of luck (by not having Frank Lampard or Ashley Cole sent off) the West Londoners came back with victory. Villas-Boas has to do what Ferguson has been doing for years and rebuild an entire team. This January transfer window could be crucial for Chelsea as they lose key players to the African Cup of Nations and look to strengthen an aging squad.
Other teams that have had a mixed festive period have to be the teams from Manchester. After thumping Wigan 5-0, United looked set to be sending Blackburn for the same fate. In fact, it was United who were put to the sword. Usually after United have a terrible result, the next team feel the full force. In this case it was Newcastle. But it was them who made United feel the full force of two straight Premier League defeats. The only saving grace for United was the form of their City neighbours. Held at The Hawthorns and then beaten at the Stadium of Light was not a good start to the festivities. Their own saviour was the 3-0 defeat of Liverpool after New Year’s Day which sent them three points clear at the top.
In this most unpredictable year it is difficult to pick a title winning team at this stage. Manchester City are three clear, but Manchester United never give up and we Brits love an underdog who many neutrals with be Spurring on.
Wednesday 12 October 2011
The Dominance of the Old Guard
This year saw a new speedway record set: the oldest World Champion. At 41, Greg Hancock surpasses the age at which Tomasz Gollob won the series in 2010, and there isn't a single fan that can say he didn't deserve it. On the track he was simply majestic from the gate to the chequered flag, he was largely infallible, winning not only the Individual Championship, but also, domestic league titles and 4 Grand Prix'.
Prior to the last two seasons, it has been widely regarded that a speedway rider would be in the twilight of his career when he reached his late thirties; however, maybe it can now be considered the prime, and the twilight will be pushed back until they are in their mid-forties to late fifties. Looking upon the final standings of this year's series there is only one man in the top five under thirty, and even he (Jarek Hampel) is 29. A couple of years ago Sky Sports promoted the Grand Prix' as the Old Guard against the Young Pretenders, which is exactly what new challengers have simply been. In his first year Emil Sayfutdinov managed a spectacularly impressive bronze medal. Last year he relied on a wildcard purely based on injury; he came into this year fit, and finished sixth. Respectable as this may be, he hasn't lit up the series as all fans would have hoped. Similarly, Chris Holder has been a steady performer, occasionally showing flashes of the potential World Champion that certainly lies within, but has only managed two successive eighth places, which have served to keep his much needed place, without competing for the medal positions. Why have the younger riders failed to deliver?
A major shift in mechanics happened over the winter: new silencers. Whilst people in Britain were in outrage about the possible non-inclusion of Coventry and Peterborough; elsewhere on the continent, Poland refused to use the new silencer, and then backed down to comply with the previous agreement they had committed to. It is apparent that a vast majority of riders took a long time to adapt to the new silencers, especially some of the younger riders from the Grand Prix' to the domestic leagues. Was it simply a case of the older riders getting to grips quicker? Possibly. They have more experience riding their bikes, so were able to adapt much quicker.
Conversely, Tomasz Gollob won the previous year's World Championship on the old silencers with the likes of Jason Crump and Greg Hancock in and around him. So what is the defining reason for success this late in a career? Focus. In an interview conducted by Paul Burbidge, Greg admitted that in previous years he wasn't focused on the sole aim of being World Champion again. His turning point was finding himself out of the top eight last year. From that point he went on to rack up points finishing fifth overall. With a renewed hunger, desire and focus he returned this year hell bent on winning his second World Championship, which ultimately he achieved. This suggests that the younger riders lack this focus, which I feel is true. Maybe it is only directed towards finishing in the top eight, or the top four? Whatever the reason, to become a World Champion they need to be blinkered to the new trophy.
Returning for another shot at Grand Prix glory are ex-regulars Piotr Protasiewicz and Bjarne Pedersen; inspired by the past two winners that they themselves could live out their ambitions of a World Championship gold medal. Coming through the Grand Prix Challenge is enough of an indicator that they can still beat the best of the competition outside of the series. Another interesting addition is that of Darcy Ward. Easily the best rider in the Elite League this year steps onto the world stage after a successful introduction through the improved wild card system. This, coupled with a Grand Prix in New Zealand already has me excited about the 2012 series. I wait with interest.
Prior to the last two seasons, it has been widely regarded that a speedway rider would be in the twilight of his career when he reached his late thirties; however, maybe it can now be considered the prime, and the twilight will be pushed back until they are in their mid-forties to late fifties. Looking upon the final standings of this year's series there is only one man in the top five under thirty, and even he (Jarek Hampel) is 29. A couple of years ago Sky Sports promoted the Grand Prix' as the Old Guard against the Young Pretenders, which is exactly what new challengers have simply been. In his first year Emil Sayfutdinov managed a spectacularly impressive bronze medal. Last year he relied on a wildcard purely based on injury; he came into this year fit, and finished sixth. Respectable as this may be, he hasn't lit up the series as all fans would have hoped. Similarly, Chris Holder has been a steady performer, occasionally showing flashes of the potential World Champion that certainly lies within, but has only managed two successive eighth places, which have served to keep his much needed place, without competing for the medal positions. Why have the younger riders failed to deliver?
A major shift in mechanics happened over the winter: new silencers. Whilst people in Britain were in outrage about the possible non-inclusion of Coventry and Peterborough; elsewhere on the continent, Poland refused to use the new silencer, and then backed down to comply with the previous agreement they had committed to. It is apparent that a vast majority of riders took a long time to adapt to the new silencers, especially some of the younger riders from the Grand Prix' to the domestic leagues. Was it simply a case of the older riders getting to grips quicker? Possibly. They have more experience riding their bikes, so were able to adapt much quicker.
Conversely, Tomasz Gollob won the previous year's World Championship on the old silencers with the likes of Jason Crump and Greg Hancock in and around him. So what is the defining reason for success this late in a career? Focus. In an interview conducted by Paul Burbidge, Greg admitted that in previous years he wasn't focused on the sole aim of being World Champion again. His turning point was finding himself out of the top eight last year. From that point he went on to rack up points finishing fifth overall. With a renewed hunger, desire and focus he returned this year hell bent on winning his second World Championship, which ultimately he achieved. This suggests that the younger riders lack this focus, which I feel is true. Maybe it is only directed towards finishing in the top eight, or the top four? Whatever the reason, to become a World Champion they need to be blinkered to the new trophy.
Returning for another shot at Grand Prix glory are ex-regulars Piotr Protasiewicz and Bjarne Pedersen; inspired by the past two winners that they themselves could live out their ambitions of a World Championship gold medal. Coming through the Grand Prix Challenge is enough of an indicator that they can still beat the best of the competition outside of the series. Another interesting addition is that of Darcy Ward. Easily the best rider in the Elite League this year steps onto the world stage after a successful introduction through the improved wild card system. This, coupled with a Grand Prix in New Zealand already has me excited about the 2012 series. I wait with interest.
Wednesday 13 July 2011
Speedway: A Brilliant Sport Made Better
I have been an avid speedway supporter for as long as I can remember. It began with regular Friday night trips to the now defunct Oxford Cheetahs (briefly the Oxford Silver Machine); interspersed with seeing Premier League Reading Racers and occasionally the revived Wimbledon Dons in the National League. Now that all the clubs have closed down I have taken to making trips to the Hoddesdon Raceway to watch the Rye House Rockets as well as being glued to the television screen every Monday at 7:30 and alternate Saturdays to watch the excellent Sky Sports coverage. From this it is certainly clear that I love my speedway; but even for me there are ways to make this sport even better.
Purpose-Built Stadiums
It is absolutely fantastic that around the country there are stadiums that have been especially commissioned for speedway racing. Tracks that I have already mentioned lost out to greyhound racing and housing/office developments and could simply not compete. If this sport is going to survive for many years to come, these purpose-built tracks will become the cornerstone of the sport. Despite being brilliant they have one major flaw: speedway is an outdoors sport that is often affected by the good old British weather; by being purpose built, surely during the development people must have deliberated putting a roof on it. The British Grand Prix at the Millennium Stadium is so successful partly because people know that it will never have to be re-staged. I would hate to travel hundreds of miles to be told that it is called off. The roof is a great safety net for people to invest their time and money.
It took the All England Club far too long to put a roof over centre court, let’s not let that happen to speedway if we have the finances. In saying this, a roof is a magnificent investment on its own. For example if Somerset Speedway built a roof, and on a rainy Good Friday people wanted to see speedway they would get a huge crowd of hungry speedway fans, starving for some full throttle action. With a roof a club could provide that which would only serve to increase gate receipts, eventually paying for the roof and then turning over profit.
Alternatively all tracks could invest in track covers such as the ones that were superbly showcased in Vojens for Event 1 of the Speedway World Cup. Notorious for its bad weather they have found a solution to the problem. Of course, this won’t always work, because if rain comes during the meeting it will probably still have to be called off; however, it could work in many cases and produce meetings that would otherwise have to be re-arranged, making a more hectic schedule for already packed riders’ diaries.
Squad Systems
As well as being a fanatic about speedway, my second sport is football. I can’t help but think that speedway could take a leaf out of the football club squad system. All of us that follow speedway know how dangerous the sport is and how easily and frequently injuries occur. As I am writing this multiple examples come to mind, the best being Hans Andersen who broke his foot whilst training in the woods; a freak accident that forced the Coventry Bees into bringing Russian sensation Emil Sayfutdinov to the Elite League. Although this was brilliant news for British speedway, he has been unavailable for numerous meetings, meaning that Coventry have had to use the guest facility. With a squad system introduced the guest facility would have to be used less frequently, meaning that teams would be able to field a full team of their own more often and save other riders from burn-out. Indeed, Poole Pirates riders have suggested that last season they were riding so well that they were in great demand, fulfilling guest placements that by the end of the season they were drained.
At the moment there is already a sort-of squad system in place with the doubling-up ruling that has been a complete success. It has allowed Elite and Premier league promoters to give riding births to youngsters that they want to test and strengthen their team with experienced riders that don’t want to ride full-time Elite league. I am proposing that a similar system should be implemented for higher profile riders. It has been incredible to welcome Nicki Perdersen back and introduce Emil Sayfutdinov to British racing. I’m sure that all speedway fans would agree that we would love to see the likes of Jason Crump and Greg Hancock back racing over here. Previously they have stated that the demands have been too much for them; however with a squad system they would only be doing half the meetings, so a far smaller commitment. This would have a knock-on effect to gate receipts, drawing in bigger crowds to see the big stars. Squads may even be enough to coax Tomasz Gollob and Rune Holta over to race over in the UK.
This is not a purely selfish idea for a greater speedway spectacle. Having squad systems would also encourage promoters to introduce young British talents into their teams rather than opting for the Polish or Australian option. Poole have done that this year by including young Kyle Newman in their team. Despite struggling, he has a fantastic attitude to learn and they have kept faith with him. In addition, with the biggest stars back in the Elite League the future stars of speedway would learn a lot from current Grand Prix regulars. It appears to be a win-win situation for fans, riders and promoters.
Grand Prix’s
A Grand Prix is the cornerstone of Saturday night entertainment whenever they are all. All other plans are postponed until the final four laps are completed. They have undoubtedly become much fairer and more exciting since the implementation of the Grand Prix series; furthermore, the recent change of scoring systems has lead to an even better spectacle. However, there are still a couple of problems in my eyes. Once eight riders have qualified through to the semi-finals they race once more to get into the final itself, subsequently accumulating more points towards their series totals. The winner of the heat gets three points, second two and third one, but if you finish last you don’t receive anything. I feel that this is a gross injustice. If a rider has qualified through to the semi finals then they should be rewarded, even if it is only with a single point. Thus, I propose semi finals that would see the winner receive 4 points, second 3, third 2 and fourth 1.
Similarly, by reaching the final, the loser fails to get a podium place or any extra points. To rectify this, the winner of the Grand Prix should receive 6 points, second 4, third 2 and fourth 1. This would make the series even better and more rewarding than it already is.
Speedway is close to my heart and I only want to see it survive and if possible improve to new heights of brilliance.
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