Comets are back

As preparations continue with the Oxford Cheetahs v R.E.D Bandits, powered by STS clash less than an hour away much of the talk in the Cowley pits is around the statement released half an hour ago by the BSPL confirming that Workington’s licence suspension will end on Friday and that the bikes will roar again at the GT Tyres Arena on Saturday.

Plenty of fixtures to rearrange of course, including home and away clashes with the Bandits, but for now this is the official statement.

“The BSPL is delighted to announce that they’ve successfully worked through administrative issues at Workington and can confirm they will resume racing on Saturday, July 12, in the Cab Direct Championship fixture against reigning champions, Poole Pirates.
It also gives us great pleasure to announce that they’ve secured a new partnership with Allied Mobility, principal partner of the GB Speedway Team.
BSPL Chairman Rob Godfrey said: “There’s no doubt the last couple of weeks have been a challenge, however I’m glad we’ve been able to come through it and look forward to getting the team back on track. It’s great that Workington have been able to enter a new partnership with a blue-chip national company in Allied Mobility, which is synonymous with investing in speedway in the UK, and I’d like to thank the Facenna family for their support.”
For Workington Speedway to thrive and to be able to plan for a long-term future well beyond this recent blip, they need public support for their incredible facility.
One area which has been an issue for supporters has been the 3pm start time, as there are currently no floodlights at the GT Tyres Arena a later start time has always been discussed but now they will be starting their home fixtures at 6pm during the summer months.
They have matches coming up against fellow northern clubs and this will allow supporters to better plan a day out in a beautiful part of the country and then make their way to the speedway in the early evening. It is hoped this change will be welcomed by home and away supporters alike, as well as making track preparation easier.
Comets Team Manager James Denham said: “If you have been a regular attendee this year, we thank you, and if you previously attended Derwent Park but haven’t yet joined us at Northside, please do and you will be delighted with what you see. Likewise, if you know anyone who used to go, and for some reason doesn’t do so now, please encourage them to come along. Everyone is guaranteed a warm welcome.”
“We’ve worked exceptionally hard to build up this venue and are determined to keep it, and that starts with getting back on track this season.
“We are also keen to explore local commercial opportunities for partnerships. Any input from the local community is fundamental to giving the club a solid foundation for the future. Please get behind our efforts, and we hope to see you at the GT Tyres Arena soon.”
BSPL Chairman Rob Godfrey said: “We’re delighted that Workington have overcome their issues and are returning to the tapes, as their facility is one of the best in the country.
“I very much hope the speedway community rallies round the club to ensure their long-term future, and with the change to 6pm starts, this will hopefully encourage more fans to make a weekend of it.”
Allied Mobility’s Peter Facenna added: “We’re delighted to enter our new partnership with Workington Speedway.
“Fewer people have invested more into speedway over the last few years, and it’s at times like these where the speedway community must pull together in support.
“Thanks to the passion and commitment of the team at Workington, what we now have there is a world-class track that produces amazing racing with the potential to hold future FIM events.
“I very much hope the local community and wider speedway community now match the passion and commitment to the sport they’ve shown by getting behind the club to show their support.”

Tonight’s action is available via OxfordTV buy here