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POOLES all-star Australian duo Chris Holder and Darcy Ward have both agreed terms to remain with the Pirates for next season.The spectacular pair topped the Elite League averages this year and Holder became World Champion, with Ward set to join him in the Grand Prix series in 2013.Poole promoter Matt Ford said: Without a shadow of a doubt they were the backbone of the team last year and provided us all with so many amazing moments, pulling out rides that clinched last-gasp victories and had us on the edge of our seats as we wondered just what thrilling moves they could deliver.There was a lot of talk and speculation that one or other of them wouldn't be back, but they were both very keen to stay with us and it is terrific that they both will be wearing the skull and crossbones in 2013.(SPEEDWAY 2)
COVENTRY have signed-up Krzysztof Kasprzak for a second spell with the club in 2013.The Polish star helped the Bees to the Elite League title in 2010 and enjoyed a spectacular run of form this year with Poole, also making progress into next seasons Grand Prix series.Coventry promoter Mick Horton said: Im absolutely delighted the deal is done, it was my priority to find an out-and-out No.1, and they dont come much better than Krzysztof.Weve been negotiating for several weeks now and Krzysztof made it very clear he wanted to come to Coventry, which was very important to me. He wants to be here, and we wanted him herewe made it clear we wanted a No.1, and lets look forward to some happy days.
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GREAT Britain captain Chris Harris has moved across the Midlands to join Birmingham.Harris links up with the Brummies on loan from Coventry, replacing Bjarne Pedersen as the No.1 at Perry Barr on a 7.91 average.He had ridden for his parent club since 2004 with the exception of the 2011 season when he was loaned-out to Belle Vue.Birmingham co-boss Phil Morris said: Chris is the perfect type of rider we want at the Brummies. Hes fully committed and the fans will always be assured that he will give 100% to the Brummies.(SPEEDWAY 4)
BERWICK have signed former Edinburgh skipper Matthew Wethersand also announced a return to the Bandits for Kozza Smith, who missed the entire 2012 season due to injury.The Bandits have named their full line-up for next season with Ricky Ashworth, Robin Aspegren, Alex Edberg, Nicki Barrett and David Bellego all back at Shielfield Park after racing for the club this year.Bandits director John Anderson said: I think Ian (Rae) has done a magnificent job in putting such a solid team together. We have been forced to cut our cloth, both by our own lack of sponsorship and the Premier Leagues agreement to rein in spending.I have to salute the riders who will wear our colours next season, all of whom have put the clubs requirements ahead of their own financial situation.
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AUSTRALIAN youngsters Hugh Skidmore and Micky Dyer have joined Redcarleaving the Bears one rider away from a full squad for 2013.Skidmore moves from Sheffield whilst Dyer rode for Berwick and Edinburgh this year. 2012 team members Ulrich Ostergaard and Matej Kus are now also confirmed starters alongside Carl Wilkinson and captain Aaron Summers.Bears promoter Brian Havelock said: I believe that we are putting together a solid looking septet, and fans at our Christmas social on Thursday evening were pleased to see four favourites retained and excited by the lively Aussie talent coming on board. There is just the one reserve spot to sort with three candidates vying for that position including another familiar name.
