Great to be back – Jack

It’s been an unusual winter for our lone Brit – and he can’t wait to cash in on a laser-focussed close-season.

Jack Smith made his Championship debut in 2017 but this will be the first time since 2021 that he has been contracted to a second tier club from the start of a season.

Chatting with Greg Blair for the latest Total Access podcast, the 27-year-old said that re-signing for a second season at Shielfield Park was like “having a blindfold removed.”

“It’s mentally tough getting bikes and yourself ready without being signed for a team,” he said. “And yet you have to be fully prepared and ready to go in case – as with Glasgow in 2024 and Berwick last year – the call comes. It’s like going into the season with a blindfold on.

“This winter I had two contracts signed (Jack will also captain the reformed Buxton side in this year’s National Development League) early. As a result I have prepared better than ever and feel in the best ever shape of my career physically, mechanically and mentally.”

The extra meetings with the Bulls will also help keep the son of three-time British champion Andy sharp along with his knowledge of the unique home track.

“Last season went OK and I felt by the end of it I was really getting to grips with a track I hadn’t ridden too much before. Shielfield Park is unique with the speed you go down the straights and the huge banking on two of the turns.

“It can get into the heads of some away riders and they are beaten before a wheel is turned but once you get the hang of it there’s no better home track.”

Jack’s Total Access interview will be available on the club’s Facebook, Instagram and Youtube channels this evening.

Don’t forget that season passes – £199 adults, £189 concessions – are on sale Buy season passes

Businesses, groups or individuals wanting to join the family of Bandits’ sponsors can contact the club via email – club@berwickspeedway.com – packages range from £300 to £3,000 View sponsorship packages

Pictures: Keith Hamblin