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BIRMINGHAM have completed the signing of Great Britain international Ben Barker for a fourth season at Perry Barr.Barker, who rides for the Brummies on loan from Midlands rivals Coventry, is targeting a significant increase in his average in 2014.He said: “I love the club and have always enjoyed my time there so I’m just happy I’ll be back in 2014 and I’m looking forward to a big year.“I had a very up and down year last year, and if I’m honest I’m hoping for a lot better. I’m going to work really hard to get everything put in place so I can hopefully do a lot better and be pushing my average up towards the number one spot.”
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TOP-FLIGHT newcomers Leicester have added a second Danish rider to their ranks with the signing of Patrick Hougaard.The former Belle Vue and Peterborough man, who won the inaugural Pride of the Midlands event at the East Midlands venue in 2011, joins fellow countryman Mads Korneliussen and Australian Jason Doyle in the Lions’ top five as they step up a level next year.Promoter David Hemsley said: “We have kept a watchful eye on Patrick for some time now and I am pleased that talks fell into place and he will be riding for Leicester next season. “There are no half measures with Patrick who has first class equipment and is very professional in his approach, organisation and set-up. I feel sure that Patrick will build upon the season just ended and we look forward to working with him next year.”(SPEEDWAY 3)
SHEFFIELD have confirmed the return of popular Cumbrian racer Adam Roynon for next season.Roynon enjoyed a brief spell at Owlerton this year but saw his season ended by a broken collarbone, and now joins Simon Stead in the Tigers’ 2014 line-up.He said: “I’ll be ready and fully fit for the new season and even though I had a tough year in 2013 I’m raring to go.“It’s been tough but I just need to try and get an injury-free season under my belt to get my career going again and get back on track. I just want to start winning races again, keep my confidence up, get some consistency and keep scoring points regularly. I’m well happy to be back with Sheffield.”(SPEEDWAY 4)
MILDENHALL skipper Danny Halsey will return for a fourth season in Fen Tigers colours next year.Halsey swept the board at the club’s recent awards evening after a successful campaign, and chairman Kevin Jolly says he was an automatic choice for the 2014 line-up.Jolly said: “Dan really stepped up last season and some of the rides he put in for us will live long in the memory. But that aside he was also a fine captain and we had no hesitation in offering him a team place for 2014 and also the chance to continue as team captain, which happily he has accepted. “He won virtually every club award going last season which shows just how highly he is thought of by our supporters, who I am sure will be pleased with the news.”
