(SPEEDWAY 1)SWINDON have confirmed the return of Elite League title-winning captain Hans Andersen to Blunsdon for the new season.The Robins completed a new deal for the Dane over the weekend which leaves them with one rider to compete the line-up for their defence of the silverware.Swindon co-promoter Gary Patchett said: We are delighted to finally be in a position to welcome last year's captain back to the Abbey. We were given permission to speak to Hans on Friday by the BSPA and wasted no time in making contact with him.He is a rider of immense quality and brings an extra dimension to the captains role. He is equally valuable in the pits as on the track and the fantastic team spirit shown last year was due in no small part to him.(SPEEDWAY 2)
PETERBOROUGH have completed their 2013 line-up with the signing of Danish star Patrick Hougaard.Hougaard, who has spent his entire Elite League career so far with Belle Vue, will start at reserve for the Panthers after an injury-hit season last year.Peterborough boss Jan Staechmann said: Patrick is an ambitious young man who quietly goes about his business, and I think he is the perfect fit for our team.I think he will benefit greatly from moving to a bigger track, and let's face it, they don't come much bigger or faster in the UK than the East of England Showground. It is a move that I think will benefit both rider and club, as I believe Patrick has the ability to increase his average significantly.
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LAKESIDE newcomer Lewis Bridger believes his move to Purfleet will provide the springboard for a positive campaign both domestically and internationally.In addition to his responsibilities for the Hammers, Bridger is targeting British Final success, a place in the World Cup squad and qualification for the Grand Prix Challenge.He said: I am really excited about the new season and the opportunity to ride for Jon Cook at Lakeside and to work with the youngsters at the Hagon Academy. I know that Jon will make sure he does everything to challenge me to achieve my goals. Please don't get me wrong, Eastbourne are a great club and over the years they have done a lot for me, the fans have been great, but at times I felt as I was not being pushed and therefore I needed a new challenge.
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COVENTRY have completed their National League team-building with the signing of Cornishman Martin Knuckey.The 20-year-old comes in at reserve for the Storm as the Brandon club enter the third-tier for the first time after impressing bosses during appearances in second-halves last season.Coventry chief Blayne Scroggins said: Martin was really keen to make the step up and its good to be able to promote a rider from the Midland Development League team, it shows the riders at that level that were watching them.There were one or two options but we wanted to go with Martin, who is showing real commitment to join us and make the long trip up from Cornwall regularly.
