Chances for the youngsters on Friday

NEWS Wednesday 4th July 2018, 5:32pm

by Mike Hunter

  Edinburgh Monarchs

A mixed field including six riders who have been Championship regulars this season, and also five Scotsmen, will contest the second Caledonian Riders' Championship on Friday. Meeting sponsors are Bert Harkins and Linlithgow Tyres and Exhausts, along with many other heat and rider sponsors.

Expectation will be that one of the Championship regulars might take the Trophy (diligently returned this week by last year's winner Max Clegg). These riders are Tom Bacon (Peterborough), Nathan Greaves (Wolverhampton and ex-Redcar), Coty Garcia (ex-Edinburgh), Jordan Stewart (Redcar), Ellis Perks (ex-Peterborough) – and of course American home favourite Max Ruml!

The Scots are former Monarchs' no. 1 of a decade ago, William Lawson, along with Ryan MacDonald, Dale Lamb, Luke Ruddick and Lewis Miller. The additional rider is Danish hopeful Jacob Bukhave.

Commercial manager Scott Frame has again worked hard to put the field together and to find sponsors. He is keen to emphasise the importance of giving chances to Scottish riders and is pleased to have so many in the field.

He said "We unfortunately live in a day and age where Scottish riders coming through and being given a chance are few and far between. That's because of a number of reasons but we have to believe that we can somehow change that cycle.

"Tonight will be valuable experience against some of the brightest up and coming stars. It's a big test for them all, but a good performance could make people take notice and encourage other youngsters that speedway is the sport for them.

"It's a tough meeting to piece together. We have to create a balance that allows for close racing and this year I think we've put a very competitive line-up on the track. As it stands I couldn't pick a winner and I think that's a huge positive for the event."

Admission prices are at a lower level for everyone this week and can be viewed on the club website.

THIS WEEK'S MEETINGS:

Friday 6th July: Caledonian Riders' Championship, 7:30pm.

Sunday 8th July: Scunthorpe v Staggs Bar Monarchs (Championship), 6:30pm