Brandon Bees Cycle Speedway club opened a new era at Bretford Playing Fields on Tuesday evening (12th May), when they staged a hugely successful opening meeting against near neighbours Coventry.
Frantic last minute track work in the preceding 48 hours had transformed the circuit, pits and surrounds into an immaculate arena. Bright sunshine greeted the riders and onlookers as the sport made an encouraging return to the rural village location.
And, to complete a memorable evening, the newly formed Brandon Bees, proudly wearing the iconic Coventry Bees `fighting bee` emblem of the 1960s era, stunned rivals Coventry by posting a 71-59 victory.
It was fitting local Warwickshire youngster Matt Hambidge, showing his best form to date, won the first race for Brandon. He was well supported by Mark Winwood and Mark Winwood as the Bees pulled away for a comfortable victory.
However, Coventry had the star performer of the night in dashing 18 year old Dan Drewett. Racing with a new found confidence and aggression, Drewett topped the Coventry scorers and beat all the top Brandon riders.
There was a welcome return to action for teenage sensation Kyle Roberts after missing the first two months of the season due to a broken arm. He surpassed expectations by losing just once to an opponent and reported no ill effects from his arm injury.
Brandon Bees point scorers:
Mark Winwood 15, Myke Grimes 14, Kyle Roberts 14, Matt Hambidge 12, Joe McLaughlin 9 and Ollie Morris 7.
Coventry point scorers:
Dan Drewett 17, Bobby McMillan 16 Matt Lawrence 10, Jimmy Wassall 7, Charlie Barnett 5 and Spencer Sawbridge 4.
Brandon are next in action this Tuesday evening (19th May), when they travel to the Black Country to take on Wednesfield Dragons in the Midland League division 2.
For more information on Brandon Bees Cycle Speedway club, please ring: 07400 993999.
The Coventry club stage the Midlands regional round 3 of the British Junior & Youth League at Hearsall Common on Saturday (16th May), commencing at 12 midday.
Over 60 riders are expected to compete in the six age group classifications, ranging from under 8 to under 17s. The event includes a girl’s category. The competition is open to all junior riders, including first time entrants. Newcomers, with parents, should ask for Lee Marsh upon arrival.
Coventry are to field their highest ever rider tally in the competition, with over 15 riders expected across the six age group categories. In the under 14s section, Woodlands schoolboy Spencer Sawbridge is the overall series leader after sparkling wins in the first two rounds.
In round 3 of the Coventry Junior League, held at Birmingham last Sunday afternoon, Warwick Royals and Coventry Devlins tied for first place on 53 points each, with league leaders Earlsdon Hammers close behind on 52 points, with hosts Birmingham trailing on 49 points.
For more information on Coventry Cycle Speedway Club, including on how to get involved, you can visit www.coventrycyclespeedway.co.uk or follow the club on Twitter using @CoventryCSC.