Speedway Life: Twitter & scuttlebutt – March 2012
04/01/2014
1st March
Neil Machin
“I’m aware of the criticism I get and the reputation I have, but I’ve been at this club for 19 years now and we always honour our agreements with riders and pay them on time. These are tough times financially but our partnership with Ian and the fact that we have some of the most loyal supporters in the sport means we are fine when it comes to off-track matters. Not all clubs can say that. You only have to look at some promoters who breezed into the sport with bright ideas and tried to tell us how to do our job, but where are they now? My record at Sheffield is one I am proud of and I will never jeopardise the future of this club just to pay a few extra quid to a rider who might be able to do a job for us. There is a lot of doom and gloom around in speedway right now and that’s not surprising considering that a lot of companies who have been involved in the past are feeling the pinch.”
Tai Woffinden*
“to do list pick up van from sheffield city centre clutch mot van tax van ride jet ski all afternoon sick :D”
Darcy Ward*
“Wish speedway was just about riding need a manager !!!! #needhelp”
Nigel Pearson*
“My tip for the four Elite League speedway Play-Off qualifiers: Coventry, Lakeside, Swindon, Poole”
David Watt*
“Need some help. My mechanic needs a room to live in for the season in Poole area. Can anyone help me ?”
Hans Andersen*
“Too much stuff to remember when packing for both UK an NZ at the same time”
Casper Wortmann
“Here we go again. It all starts again. On the way to uk with Peter Kildemand”
2nd March
Lewis Bridger*
“#getstarted 20- situps, V-press ups, star jumps, 20 normal press ups, sit up twists, burpies, in & outs repeat 4 times #GOOOOOO”
Lee Richardson*
“maybe u should pack in speedway lbr, and become a p.t”
SpeedwayGP*
“Billy Hamill is set for a sensational Monster Energy SWC comeback in Slovenia on May 5. Great news for US speedway”
Fredrik Lindgren*
“Dream about loading bikes up in vans?”
Rory Schlein*
“Oh no just burnt myself on my pit bike shit better call the factory and say you need to put heat shields on Best contact the FIM to ask why motocross don’t run safety mud guards, and why won’t they have to wear leathers”
Chris Neath*
“good call bro #bullshit”
Rory Schlein*
“there only making the sport more explosive for riders hope promoters know wages will need to go up to accommodate this”
Chris Neath*
“you know it mate. Costs are doubling and wages are going nowhere. Its a joke”
Garry Stead*
“oh no speedway promotors I used to be needed before my accident but oh shit not needed after totally forgot #lineownpockets”
Darcy Ward*
“they can’t be serious can they get forums done I’ll sign it”
Rory Schlein*
“ya Neva know darky we may need a riders union soon”
Chris Holder*
“i think ur after a petition Darky ;-)”
Alun John Rossiter*
“Team bonding at the dogs more fun to come !!”
Nicolai Klindt*
“can’t wait to go to uk tomorrow. sharing room with Rene Bach and Kenny Larsen is less exciting though. #goodnight”
3rd March
Lee Richardson*
“On m25, bit of practice at Peterborough today ;)”
Nicolai Klindt*
“you’ll get fed up with racing before season starts rico”
Alex Harkess
“It’s wrong to say it [FIM Speedway Club Championship] has been cancelled or postponed because it has never been announced that it’s happening.”
Alex Harkess
“The sticking points were purely regarding the ownership of the competition so that nobody in the future has the right to sell it to anyone else.”
Lewis Bridger*
“My legs are aching from going a little to hard last night 2hr’s of Boxing followed by a 20km bike #restday”
Trevor Swales
“It is about everyone getting to know each other, being comfortable in each other’s company and bonding together. We know there were issues with the team spirit at the club during last season”
Daniel Nermark
“I spoke to Birmingham, that was one of the options but I didn’t think much about it”
Dennis Andersson
“We [Wroclaw] did a lot of skiing, running and boxing, hitting punch bags and using medicine balls etc. without actually fighting anyone, so I feel great.”
Gary Patchett
“The new look was designed by Colin Stratford with input from Alun Rossiter, and I really like it.”
4th March
Chris Holder*
“cooking is a chicks job isn’t it…? Haha”
Nigel Pearson*
“Thrilled to meet broadcasting legend David Hamilton in press room at Fulham – he’s an avid viewer of Monday night sky speedway”
Nicki Pedersen*
“home sweet home in UK again ;o)”
5th March
Rory Schlein*
“That’s me off to scunny for a practice weather seems good I’ll be join by a few other riders who ask me if they could join me Tully,Jensen”
Alan Boon*
“Vojens speedway closes because Ole Olsen wants too much money #notsurprised Weird thing is that the club own the land but Olsen owns the track built on the land #speedwayeverywhereisretarded”
6th March
Josh Auty
“Scunthorpe will always have a special place in my heart”
Tony McDonald*
“Great news. the ‘speedway family’ has raised the full £4,300 former Hackney junior Mike Letch needs to buy a new lightweight wheelchair”
RyeHouse Fans*
“BREAKING NEWS: Rockets sign Leigh Lanham as cover for Tyson Nelson, due to an error with Nelson’s visa application”
Nicki Pedersen*
“just now my lovely Racing truck is sold to sweden. A little sad ;o) but now a new chapter can begin”
Neils Kristian Iversen*
“Brilliant practice today at Scunthorpe. All went well and i felt very good on the bikes”
Chris Holder*“Sneaky practice at Poole tomorrow sweeeeet”
7th March
Ludvig Lindgren*
“Ryanair Is not the bomb. Hate the shit already first Flight this year. More star alliance to the riders!!!”
David Gordon
“We are such a long way from reaching an agreement that it may well have to go to arbitration. But we have already had interest from an Elite League club since the news was released so we may withdraw from any talks with Rye House. [Jason] Garrity did put in a transfer request out of the blue. We accepted it because we only want riders here who want to be at Belle Vue and we did offer Rye House the first refusal because he had signed for them on loan.”
Nicolai Klindt*
“on the way to not-so-sunny-scunny, it’s pissing down atm. hope it will clear up! still fuming over my twitter app not working….”
Hans Andersen*
“well its not pissing down any more just drizzling but preferable would be sunny”
Ludvig Lindgren*
“Chilling on the train from stansted to Birmingham dont have first class so no free wine for me”
Joseph Screen*
“you didn’t do it right bloke you must sit in first class first then hope you don’t get moved ;-)”
Tomasz Suskiewicz
“We needed to make a decision in October last year as to whether we were going to Sweden or England. We decided Emil would only do one of these leagues. Nothing in Britain was 100 percent. It was just ‘maybe he could go here, maybe he could go there.’ There were too many question marks in Britain, so we decided to go to Sweden for this season. If we had known exactly what was going on at the end of September, then our first choice would have been England. The offer from Vetlanda was really good, so we decided to take Sweden. At least there, you know you are riding every Tuesday from May to September. In England, you ride Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays and then we get problems with Russia and Emil can’t get back for some meetings.”
Paul Burbidge*
“The fact a British team missed out on signing Sayfutdinov tells me it’s time to bring the BSPA AGM forward”
Tony McDonald*
“Six times World Champion Ivan Mauger states on his Facebook page that “Backtrack is a great magazine”…enough said”
Nicolai Klindt*
“…..and can’t wait to get home and see what my girl have cooked for me! #betterbegood”
Kenneth Hansen*
“Fuck my ass is sore after two days with gating practice!!”
Lewis Bridger*
“Boxing tonight was rough but I think I showed the A B C trainers that I have plenty of heart !!!”
Tai Woffinden*
“goal the next 5 years 2 bed bungalow with 15 acres and build the sickest mx track in the uk”
8th March
Ludvig Lindgren*
“Hate mornings in the uk but then again I hate mornings in Sweden 2”
Neil Machin
“Nigel [Hinchcliffe] has a wealth of knowledge relating to the rule book from his time as a trainee referee under the Speedway Control Bureau umbrella. As a retired police officer he has obvious communication and people skills, and he will bring additional professional attributes with a view to developing team spirit.”
Alan Boon*
“If Belle Vue are genuinely willing to sell Garrity or Rye House genuinely thought they would I have some invisible racesuits to sell them…”
David Watt*
“Loving my new website”
Sam Masters*
“At hong kong airport just about to get on plane for 13 stint to Uk! Faark not keen! #needsleep”
Andy Povey*
“British Speedway Div 1 Championship trophy (won by Reading in 1990) now in the AP Media trophy room”
Brian Collins
“I’ve never been known as a great fan of British promoters, but I have to admit that the BSPA, and most of its members, have acted very responsibly during these difficult times. Yes, we have just lost Newport. Which is sad, but overall I think we have gained more tracks than we have lost in recent years. Crowds are generally poor, we can’t afford to employ all the top GP riders in the Elite League, and I still hate the double point “tactical rides”(!), but the leagues appear to be fairly stable, and we haven’t had very many cases of promotions owing the riders large amounts of money in the UK. Costs appear to be more or less under control, though it is obviously a struggle for some teams. We just have to accept that times have changed in the UK, and the sport has done well so far to adapt to those changes, in my opinion. It’s painful, but necessary.”
Kevin Long*
“there was talk of track changes at Leicester, has anything been altered?”
David Howe*
“think slightly wider into turn 3 and more banking but surface is excellent, very fast”
9th March
Mike Bellerby
“Cam [Woodward] has now been into the recording studio and the result is a brilliant advert which encompasses the sounds and excitement of speedway. We are very grateful to our friends at Sovereign FM and top DJ Rik Scott who masterminded the recording.”
Nicki Glanz*
“Ryanairs website never seems to work when I need it #fuming #justsaying”
Chris Holder*
“Ryan air can EAD! Pissin me right off!”
Fredrik Lindgren*
“‘Welcome back to the Midlands Mr Lindgren’”
Joseph Screen*
“Got to love people selling a mudgaurd on eBay saying its mine when it ain’t and looks worse than josh autys new ones”
Ludvig Lindgren*
“Valsarna speedway gives me empty words again don’t promise shit if you can’t hold it!”
10th March
Malcolm Vasey
“Stoke is a big fish in the NL pond….whoever is selected needs to treat this position professionally because that is what this club is about, professionalism”
Len Silver
“At the moment he is on loan [to Rye House] but there is a good possibility that his contract will be available for purchase and of course I will definitely be in the market for it subject to price…he’s an exciting young boy, he’s a bit rough round the edges, he’s a little untried and untested but we think we can do things with him and I’m very pleased to have him with us”
Peter Adams
“I did a bit of analysis towards the end of the season and it all boiled down to just 11 races…those dropped points would have seen us in the top three”
Kevin Long*
“Joe [Screen] its good to know you still get excited before a new season;I’m the same and all I do is hold a mic and talk into it! #goodluck”
Nicki Pedersen*
“Im having a Nice breakfast at The Ramada (butterfly) Hotel In Kings Lynn before heading Home to Stevenage ;0) travelling is a lifestyle ;0)”
Rory Schlein
“I haven’t got a license to ride in the World Cup this year. I’ve said I’m not interested. I’ve put around five years into World Cup speedway and I haven’t got a lot out of it apart from heartache and a load of politics. When you get into the World Cup it shouldn’t be like that so I’m planning to be on holiday when it’s on so it will be hard to get in touch with me.”
Alan Boon*
“Speedway Followers: What’s a better name for a magazine? – 1) Blue Groove, 2) Speeding Motorcycles, 3) No Brakes”
Colin Pratt
“I really hope during my lifetime I get to see them [Dudley] ride at their own track in the area”
Adam Shields
“I don’t want to say too much because if you say you’re going to become one of the top riders in the league, it makes it difficult to explain why you weren’t.”
Jordan Frampton
“You have one bang and you are branded as a crasher, but it doesn’t bother me.”
Bob Tasker*
“Off to Berwick soon for P&P, new fence & all. Fence to have its own feature soon on an early season DVD #speedway247”
Ricky Ashworth
“At first it looked like I was going to Plymouth, but when I thought about the travelling I realised it wouldn’t suit. Then the club was put up for sale and I didn’t want all the off-track pressures a situation like that might bring.”
Mike Bowden
“I have enjoyed my time running Plymouth speedway, but it is difficult to find the resources necessary for expansion and it is proving an increasing struggle to balance the books. I would be prepared to listen to any offers, whether it is a case of shared ownership or sponsorship.”
Lee Richardson
“There’s no satisfaction for Lee Richardson in going out and getting a 15-point maximum but still ending on the losing side.”
Mick Horton
“There has been no expense spared with the Track Shop, and I know fans will love it. We are going to have lots of new items of merchandise in there this season. I’d like to thank Midshires, Buildbase and Europress for all their effort and support in carrying out this work. It’s great to be working with people who truly love the club, and who share my visions for the future.”
Peter Adams
“We are not daft, Chris and me, we can see when things need to be amended”
Rory Schlein*
“Benfund meetin 2moro bit rusty only one practice but I guess these open meetings are practice butterflys have started all ready”
Phil Chard
“[Adrian] Miedzinski, speaking in English to Speedway Star from his base in Torun on Monday, candidly admitted: ‘I don’t remember that race.’”
Scott Nicholls*
“For unseen circumstances i’ve sadly had to pull out of tomorrows benfund meeting at Birmingham.Sorry to anyone who was planning on seeing me”
Justin Sedgmen*
“Face book thing of the past !! Tweeter is the way forward ;)))”
11th March
Kenny Ingalls*
“man i hate VISA’s, need to get my passport back ASAP so i can ride!”
Alun John Rossiter*
“you still not got it yet ??”
Kelly Ingalls*
“not yet still waiting to see if they except the COS that workington gave me that wasn’t correct”
Niels Kristian Iversen*
“Is buzzing inside. First meeting of the year today i Cant wait. #speedway #BenFund”
Mark Lemon*
“Been talking to Joseph Screen about clutches. He wants to become a gater! #whereisthefuninthatforthefans”
Alan Boon*
“1st BenFund for me!”
Gary Patchett*
“Me too!!”
Gary Havelock*
“Good to meet up with the boys yesterday, the new nicknames didn’t take long”
Chris Holder
“The baby is due around when I go to New Zealand and, hopefully, it will be before or after. Now it is getting close, it is exciting. I don’t think too much will change, we will just have a little person with us!”
Scott Nicholls*
“congrats on bambino news mate.Make the most of those men’s humour jokes..soon realise how true”
Joseph Screen*
“no more drinking on a school night for you son congratulations”
Paul Burbidge*
“Off to the Ben Fund Bonanza shortly. My back is killing me so seven hours in the car and a 30-hour flight to Auckland tomorrow could be fun”
Rory Schlein*
“At Ben fund meeting parked behind Hans Andersen I think in his merc nice”
Hans Andersen*
“hey matey….. Not me your parked behind as I’m travelling in the van #TeamSpirit”
Rory Schlein*
“it was puk [Niels Kristian Iversen] ha ha fuck he looked like u”
Alan Boon*
“Massive crowd for the first speedway of the season. Struggling to see! #shortarse”
Jo Lowry*
“You can always count on bomber to provide some much needed passing!”
Alan Boon*
“Fantastic effort from Chris Harris to overhaul a fast Nicki Pedersen – if only the GPs had dirt on their tracks!”
Adam Roynon*
“On the way home after an eventful first meeting out at the #BenFundBonanza…ankle and heel is pretty sore but it’ll be right!”
Rory Schlein*
“Great meeting hope the crowed had fun and we got some for the Ben fund felt a bit rusty but a nice start to the season congrats to Ben [Barker] to”
Fredrik Lindgren*
“Was a speedway spectator today at the Ben Fund in B’ham together with new wolves boy Pontus Aspgren and yea we payed to get in, good cause”
Danny King*
“first meeting is over, top point scored but came 3rd in the final, should have won :-). Never mind bring on the league #brummiesforplayoffs”
Nigel Pearson*
“Many thanks to the Poole speedway fan who accused me if being biased to Cov tonight. I’m also accused of being biased towards Poole by many”
Fredrik Lindgren*
“I’m gonna accuse you of being Dudley biased”
12th March
Stuart Douglas
“to a man, this team cannot wait to get going”
Rory Schlein*
“fair doos there should of seen some of Danny boys 1st corners wow been watchin nikki in the winter”
Nicki Pedersen*
“First meeting done of The year. Messed up The start In the final of gate 4. but general quit Happy how things are Working #bringonnextone”
Paul Burbidge*
“All the SGP bikes are being loaded in Amsterdam ready to fly to Auckland as we speak”
Paul Burbidge*
“So pleased to see Ben Barker win the Ben Fund meeting. Five ops and Christmas Day in hospital this winter. What a fightback”
Jan Staechmann*
“En route to Peterborough for Panthers press day. Weather looks a bit sad, hopefully it stays dry”
Paul Burbidge*
“Things are looking good for Birmingham this year. Barker, King, Auty and Pedersen were superb yesterday. This is a play-off team”
Paul Burbidge*
“About to embark on first leg of trip to Auckland. First stop Dubai, then Melbourne and Auckland early hours of Wednesday morning”
Nigel Pearson*
“beats working for a living pal. Safe trip”
Hans Andersen*
“People in still short of the 4.000 followers mark so might not turn up at press day Thursday if not made the mark”
13th March
Mark Lemon*
“Up bright eyed & bushy tailed. 3 bikes to wash & prep. Must be done by 1:30pm!!!!|
Rene Bach*
“Take it that Peterborough city is not the most helpfull people when it comes to trains and finding way!!”
Joseph Screen*
“My ears pricked up when I heard naked woman on Lorraine but it’s about not wearing make up”
Adam Roynon*
“Hoping my foot gets better and fast… I’ve waited to long this winter to miss out on stuff now the season is here!”
Alan Boon*
“I have to apologise. I suggested Birmingham needed a replacement for unreliable Pole Ulamek. It was actually for unreliable Pole Piszcz”
Fredrik Lindgren*
“Phonebooths thought they’d faced the same destiny as the Dinosaurs, extinct. I was wrong! Guess that’s good news for Superman, Phonebooths still exists!”
Nicki Pedersen*
“Final Test today at my Fysio in DK. Weight 63.6 kg and 8.1 procent fatt. Not bad for a speedway rider ;0)”
Mark Lemon*
“struth mate, did someone sew your mouth up?”
Nicki Pedersen*
“propper food and a hell of a lot of hard training/running all winther thats the way mate”
Mark Lemon*
“fair play man #hardwork recipe of champions #fact”
Nicolai Klindt*
“doing radio and news paper interviews in the bar at monmore green with the hole team. might gonna be a new era? #Wolves#speedway”
Gary Havelock*
“Well I take it all back. 1st class train, what a joke. No WiFi. Plug sockets don’t work and it took me 1hr and 3 mins to get a drink”
Greg Hancock*
“Gettin sideways with my Lil man Bill onboard with. He says to me: Pappa, I wanna go fast! That’s my boy!”
Joseph Screen*
“Just got home from gate crashing the wolves practice, thank you Chris and all at wolves more laps on the new jawa frames”
14th March
Pete Simmons*
“Being asked if I can get people tickets for Ipswich speedway meet the riders night today – the answer is NO! Sorry it’s sold out!”
Tai Woffinden*
“sat at the lights thort ill tweet i hear a beep looked to the side undercover cop!!! Looked at me raised his eyebrows.. Put it straigh down”
Jerran hart*
“Roll on tuesday :p 1st skid since my last meeting in october ! Aim is to ride like i haven’t been off the thing, fingers crossed #headdown”
Gary Patchett*
“Kenny Ingalls is a happy camper now. Visa issued. He’ll be in UK by weekend but won’t make P&P tomorrow unfortunately”
Kenny Ingalls*
“Stoked to finally get my visa approval, but super bummed I’m going to miss swindon P&P #slidewayssoon!”
Paul Burbidge*
“The SGP boys are staying in Crowne Plaza in Auckland centre for NZ SGP. They’ll love it! Close to superb casino, shops, bars”
Nigel Pearson*
“Darcy Ward to ride at No.3 for Poole at Wolves on Monday. So much for keeping the turbo twins together. A result of new TR rule..”
15th March
Michael Whawell
“[I was] at the WSRA Dinner. Two things of note – Vic White went crashing over the leg of a tripod holding up one of the band’s speakers and KO’d himself. He looked awful; I thought he’d had a coronary, but seems just hit his head on the corner of the wee ‘dance’ floor. This meant at least 1/2 hours delay to the start of the eats. So I decided to hop it before the speeches (as I had an early start on the Sunday), so I apologised to guest-of-honour Freddie Williams who said he was relieved as he was going to tell a rather naughty joke. According to some, it was so bad there were audible gasps of astonishment. Our Freddie not such a meek & mild mannered man after all, then. Of note also is that numbers at this ‘do’ are declining at about 20+ per
year.”
Alun John Rossiter*
“Press and practice at Swindon today hopefully a fresh start for every one concerned bring it on”
Jason Garrity*
“Cant wait to get on my bike ipswichs to nyt cum on boys lets do it woop woop”
Paul Burbidge*
“My verdict on Western Springs: place is superb. It’s a natural ampitheatre and perfectly shaped for speedway events”
Andy Povey*
“The speedway season officially starts today. BSPA Results Duty for me tonight”
Poole Speedway*
“Sam Masters staking his claim to title of King of the Pirate Wheelies”
Gary Havelock*
“Right then. Bikes tuned and loaded. Kit bag checked and packed. All ready to roll for 1st meeting of my 97th season of going sideways”
16th March
Morten Risager*
“Not this again 🙁 thanks to Jason and st johns for all their help last night. fractured 4 vertebraes in my lower back. Full movement and feeling, but waiting for some more scans and tests today”
Joseph Screen*
“oshit fella! Very sorry to hear that! Hope you are not in to much pain mate”
Kevin Long*
“such an horrendous night. Thinking of you and sincerely hope you are ok. Think positive thoughts, difficult I know”
Lewis Bridger*
“Looking pretty tidy Press day tomorrow, meeting early for the team breakfast then to the stadium !”
Gary Havelock*
“I like your tool selection!!! Only need a 12″ adjustable and you got a tool kit”
Chris Neath*
“Flat out on my back waiting to find out if I need an op on my neck. Thanks for all the kind messages guys”
Gary Havelock*
“keep your chin up bro, they got you on the morphine??”
Chris Louis
“They were all racing flat out tonight and both teams have suffered as a result. Medical updates will be provided as soon as we receive any for the three [Risager/Neath/Poole] injured riders.”
Alan Boon*
“Reading the interview with Shane Parker in the Speedway Star, strikes me he’s exactly the kind of person to be running the sport”
Paul Burbidge*
“I think Rob Lyon could be just what Kenneth Bjerre needs in the SGP series. The right word in his ear now and then could be vital.”
17th March
Shane Parker
“Is the sport promoted? No. When do you see a club using a rider to help that? I’ve turned around to the last goodness knows how many clubs and said ‘if you’ve got any promoters or sponsors days, I’m available’, and I haven’t done any!”
Roman Chyla
“Almost 65 million PLN were spent in the transfer fees by the Polish speedway clubs in order to sign contracts with the rides.
The talented Pawlicki Brothers, Przemyslaw and Piotr decided to return home to the Leszno club for 1.5 million PLN. The same amount was found available at Zielona Gora for contracting Rune Holta. Ryan Sullivan’s new 3-year contract at Torun, guarantees him 1.9 million PLN in the first year of the contract. Gorzow who had to part with Nicki Pedersen (left for Gdansk) paid 1.6, or perhaps even 1.7 million PLN for Krzysztof Kasprzak, last season with Tarnow.
The great financial effort was the construction of the Tarnow dream-team. Greg Hancock, at an average 12 points per match is to earn up to 2.4 million PLN. Janusz Kolodziej can count on 2 million PLN and the u-21 world champion, Maciej Janowski, up to 1.5 million PLN, and the young talented Casper Gomólski up to 800 thousand PLN.
The most important purchase at Jason Crump’s Polish club, Rzeszow, was Grzegorz Walasek, who moved from newly promoted Bydgoszcz to the capital city of Sub-Carpathia for 1.8 million PLN. Another newly promoted club to the Ekstraliga, Gdansk, who initially dreamed of Nicki Pedersen and Sebastian Ulamek, due to a high contract with the Dane (2.3 million PLN) had to be satisfied with Piotr
Swiderski (1 million PLN).
Already mentioned newly promoted Bydgoszcz had to find replacement for Walasek. They have signed Artem Laguta from Czestochowa and Krzysztof Buczkowski from Grudziadz for around 800 thousand PLN. Artem’s brother, Grigory, stays at Czestochowa and in 2012 season is to earn between 2.2 and 2.4 million PLN. Next on the payroll is Chris Harris who can count on the 1.3 million PLN.
As can be seen already, the team limit of one SGP rider, and also the provision of two Polish senior riders in a match, did not allow clubs to make big savings. For a simple reason. The Poles, relatively expensive before the change, now became even more
expensive.
Most interesting are of course those transfers that were not carried out. Few people know that Torun made second consecutive attempt to buy Jaroslaw Hampel. The GP bronze medalist was given a serious offer, but ultimately decided to sign an annex to a valid contract for another year with his old club, Leszno, where he can earn up to 2.5 million PLN. As a sweetner, Hampel was given by his sponsor a luxury Mercedes CLS car, worth half a million PLN.”
Scunthorpe Speedway
“Initial diagnosis is that [Tom] Armstrong has broken and dislocated his shoulder, three broken ribs whilst a large amount of blood has been removed from around his lung”
Mike Hunter
“It’s the club’s 16th season at Armadale which puts it just three years behind Powderhall as the club’s longest-serving venue. The future is never entirely clear for the Monarchs, but for the next seven months everyone knows where they’ll be.”
Chris Holder*
“Luton airport is even more dog then before! If that’s possible! Didn’t miss this joint that’s fo sure!”
Joseph Screen*
“where you off nodda”
Chris Holder*
“Polska Screeny… Presentation thing! Not real keen on goin! But MUST go..#polecats”
Michael Lee
“I don’t go along with all this stuff about having to ‘nurture’ our youngsters. It’s no good wrapping people in cotton wool. Speedway is all about pressure. When I was 16, I was riding in the equivalent of the Elite League after about a month in team racing. I was in a World Final at 17.”
Chris Neath
“I’ve always been happy at Rye House but I haven’t necessarily always been happy at speedway”
Shane Parker
“Everybody knows Neil [Machin] and Neil is very set in his ways, he believes in his opinion, that’s why you have an opinion, but people have different opinions. With Neil being involved with the BSPA and the management committee, and me being involved in the SRA, our heads were going to butt, and they did…..we didn’t speak for five years, over the safety fence issue and the pvc kickboards.”
Mads Korneliussen*
“first meeting tomorrow. Is starting to be nervous now, same feeling every year!!”
Morten Risager*
“How the hell am i supposed to get any sleep when im in a ward full of old men who snores and farts louder than the new silencers!?! #NotGood”
Paul Burbidge*
“Can’t believe Poole are considering Mateusz Szczepaniak again. He injured himself last time he raced for the club. Far too wild”
Tai Woffinden*
“just linked my tweets to Facebook”
Rene Bach
“I also like the crowd here [Coventry], they’ve been very good to me even when I wasn’t doing well, and I like the way they speak to me.”
Paul Burbidge*
“Can anyone recall more injuries at the start of a British season? This is bordering on ridiculous! Best wishes to all laid low”
Chris Neath*
“Had op to fuse c3,4 and 5 vertebrae in my neck together and 2 disc replaced with metal cages.Should be on my feet Monday if all feeling back”
Joseph Screen*
“Just picked my engine up for tomorrow from the motor Carr! New rod and piston Ooow”
Ludvig Lindgren*
“Look at my fokin Justin Bieber hair style man I didn’t even think I could look this gay!”
Adam Roynon*
“Can’t believe the injurys that have happened already this season! Madness!! Special well wishes to Chris Neath though… Top marra”
Pontus Aspgren*
“Going to Leicester soon for watch again. Getting sick of watching speedway #wannarace”
Stuart Robson*
“2 meetings in and I’m sick of cleaning bikes already!!!”
Dakota North*
“Bent 1 bike ready fr Or the year #shitriderstakemeout”
Kevin Long*
“you scored 10 including two race wins! Dont be so hard on yourself. Just pleased everyone came through unscathed!”
Fredrik Lindgren*
“Shame the rain went down at Leicester for Magnus Karlsson testimonial so meeting got cut short. Happy to see a great crowd supporting him! Topman”
Pontus Aspgren*
“Got a phone call 15 min before we was going to leave for leicester today that one pulled out. So i had my first meeting of the year today Didnt went so good but was nice to race something”
Mike Hunter
“No-one can ever be sure how many supporters might be attracted by these kind of promotional events [Scottish Speedway stand at Ingliston motorcycle show] but they can’t so any harm, as long as willing volunteers are available to take on the work.”
Shane Parker
“From my point of view, okay the Elite League has got them [air fences] because they’re compulsory, but the tracks that need it are your National and Premier League tracks. The riders are less experienced, they’re the ones that need them. It’s frustrating that you look at situations like that and that you think to yourself that what they’re basically saying is ‘my life is not worth as much as an Elite League rider’s life’, that’s the bottom line, and there’s no excuse for that.”
18th March
Chris Neath*
“Not nice havin to call a stranger at 215am to help you pee! #justsayin”
Jan Staechmann
“I’m very much looking forward to both working with, and learning from Trevor. I’m still new to Elite League team managing and although I know the FIM rulebook extremely well, there are many different sets of rules for UK league racing that I am getting to grips with”
Chris Neath*
“So glad I got a side room cos it sounds pretty noisey down the corridor. Hope that’s not where Morten Risager is cos he’s on this ward to”
Darija Pavlic*
“2012 SGP Qualifier – Race Off 1 changed from Balakovo (RUS) to Vojens (DK). We just discussed how dangerous Russia is for european riders!”
Kevin Long*
“Just wondering whether to pack the waterproofs for Shane Parker Farewell at Sheffield today! Red, Blue or Green – or something much darker”
Hans Andersen*
“Pleased to say I’ve sorted a new sponsorship deal it’s Batchelor’s taxi service between my home and Swindon all 2012”
Chris Neath*
“Morten Risager is 20 yards away round the corner but neither of us can leave our beds! So frickin bored…”
David Howe*
“how long you in for mate?”
Chris Neath*
“not sure mate but hopefully Wednesday now they’ve stabilised my neck. Suffering with hyper sensitive skin real bad today”
David Howe*
“least your all stabilised. You managed to see the kids?”
Chris Neath*
“not yet mate. Charlie thinks I can spin my head round 360 degrees now I’ve broke my neck!”
David Howe*
“you’ll feel better when home I guess, you can really work this 1 with your mrs! Try keep positive and not get down”
Adam Roynon*
“Dumped the van in the car park in order of getting some KFC goodness! #thatshowyoudoit”
David Watt*
“The only bad part of today was knowing that we don’t get to see Shane Parker ride anymore !! Good luck bro to you and the family in Aussie”
Mads Korneliussen*
“Hat good rides and bad rides tonight and blew an engine in the last heat. Sweet to be back raceing #gofromhere”
Joseph Screen*
“I’m telling you that in the pits at sheffield there must have been 20 polish mechanics! Glad I had lyonsy who I could have a crack with”
Gary Havelock*
“The question on everyone’s lips is????? Who is driving home. You or Lyons’y”
Joseph Screen*
“he’s not driving me bloke it was a one night only help! He picked his new ride up”
Mads Korneliussen*
“Forever young playing in the tourbus #goodtune”
Chris Holder*
“Good nights racing at parks farewell! Stoked to get the win! No doubt few sore heads in the morning no doubt!”
Joseph Screen* [to Chris Holder]
“I bet you $$$$ yourself for a bit when I was in front of you bet you thought wot the $$$$’s is the big lad doing”
19th March
Leigh Adams
“I’ve now returned from my very successful trip to Project Walk in the USA.
My family and I had a great time over there, and we were based just outside of San Diego, California.
We were made to feel really welcome by the whole team at the Project Walk headquarters, but my trainers certainly worked me hard! I did two hours a day, four days per week, which doesn’t sound like much when you’ve travelled half way across the world (my initial thoughts), but believe me it was enough! I was completely exhausted after every session as the exercise was so intense.
Visibly, there probably doesn’t look to be much difference (I’m still living life in a wheelchair for now), but I know in myself that I have more strength and control in my legs, which enables me to do daily things easier and that’s ultimately what it’s all about.
The walking thing may come with time and exercise, so we’ll see. But you can’t believe walking can be so hard! Towards the end of my visit at PW, I did do some walking practice. It’s very taxing on the mind as well as the body, and I’m continuing to practice at home. Kylie did a training course during our final week at PW, to enable her to train me. It’s all about continuous exercise and weight bearing, in order to re-organise the nervous system and regain that connection below my injury.
I have extensive hardware in my back, which I hope to have removed later in the year. Hopefully that will eventually allow me more mobility and my aim is to return to PW for another concentrated stint sometime after that.
I want to thank the Hagon family (Hagon Shocks), along with Billy and Christina Hamill and their family for their generous help and support during our stay in California. We couldn’t have done it without them. Finally of course, a big thank you to all supporters and organizers of Gillman Speedway for helping us make it happen.”
Justin Sedgmen*
“I posted a new photo to Facebook”
Gary Havelock*
“Why don’t you just put the photo on twitter Neil you technophobe??”
Richard Hollingsworth (from BSPA)
“On Friday night Tom [Armstrong] was in a bit of a state but twenty-four hours later and he was laid in bed following the action at other tracks on the internet”
Gary Havelock*
“WTF fact. If you type pmsl into an iPhone it suggests the word “Omsk”. WTF is an ‘Omsk’”
Richard Hollingsworth (from Scunthorpe Speedway)
“His race suit and helmet alone will cost about £1200 to replace so he is pretty gutted about that but it is great to hear he is going to make a full recovery and hopefully we will soon know some more about what is going to happen regarding the shoulder”
Chris Holder*
“Back in my old hometown Peterborough for the night! #memories”
Chris Holder*
“Woulda been proud of Screeny goin big in the deep ! Had his gatin gloves on let me tell ya!”
Gary Havelock*
“Gotta love it noddy. Joe Screen is the man. Best motorcyclist I have come across in my short career”
Fredrik Lindgren*
“Up early going Sky Speedway studio for some filming. Not feeling ultra keen will be a long day with racing tonight too!”
Chris Neath*
“up and down pal as ya would expect. They said Wednesday earliest cos the neck is stable now so fingers crossed”
Hans Andersen*
“Yet another day awaits have to head down sky and do the usually ‘look mean look’ for them to use before meetings”
David Watt*
“Another season with a silver helmet colour ! When will I learn white helmet colours shouldn’t go in the wash with kevlars ??”
Gary Havelock*
“My helmet covers are about 5 years old and have been washed about 100 times All 4 are the same colour now”
Troy Batchelor*
“Watching Hans Andersen get his hair botched up Niels Kristian Iversen has set him up a treat!!”
Nigel Pearson*
“World Champ Greg Hancock written off by some already because of his UK displays. It’s all about testing and laps, he’ll be ready for NZ!!”
Joseph Screen*
“crawl out of his $$$$ Nigel”
Nicki Pedersen*
“Had some lovely speed today at Peterborough i enjoyed that”
Linus Sundstrom*
“Road like a donkey my 2 first heats but then got sorted, gated sh!et all night though! Already looking forward to next one around eoes”
Pontus Aspgren*
“That was not what i was hoping for, crashed in my first fucked the bike up and was not even close to win any starts today #needtogate”
20th March
Linus Sundstrom*
“Way to tired….. Not looking forward to sit at the airport for a long time as my mechanichs flight is nearly 2hrs earlier then my”
Hans Andersen*
“Shocking… Ryanair what F…ing C…S made me pay £20 due to 0,1 kg that’s my breakfast money all gone oh well their time will come Oh and another thing, WHY is Ryanair’s planes always like a refrigerator? just aint happening for me to eh”
BSPA
“[Plymouth] have moved to sign Cory Gathercole in place of Steve Boxall, who did not appear at their practice session on Saturday”
Chris Neath*
“I can’t wait to be home now. They said I should be able to maybe and get a nurse to come round home for rehab”
David Howe*
“knowing your luck you’ll get a big man nurse to help you wash in your “special” places”
David Howe*
“Good start to the day-gearbox gone on van”
Cory Gathercole*
“Pumped to finally have a team spot after the last couple of weeks.New season at a new track so bring on some racing! #plymouthdevils”
David Watt*
“so on a scale of 1-10, with 10 being handbags and make-up, How gay is the Sky Sports photo shoot this year ??”
tai Woffinden*
“ummmmm 10 i was like fucking make up are u serious????”
Rory Schlein*
“At sky studios with paddy all had to have make up done saw the brum boys and some had a spray tan done smolli had to have sum removed”
Niels Kristian Iversen*
“5km run in new Best time. 19.12 min. Now going to Kings lynn, pressday tomorrow and Gorzów this weekend”
Alan Boon*
“Can’t believe some Wolves & Brummies fans are moaning that Harris may ride in the Midland League!”
Rory Schlein*
“I hear the Poole boys are to hard for make up”
Chris Holder*
“chick said we didn’t need it!! Too good looking”
Alan Boon*
“Looks like GSI are determined to hinder speedway bringing in new fans & sponsors with their new regulations for any footage shot at tracks Plus potential sponsors unable to use footage of what they get for their money = less potential sponsors #speedwayisretarded”
Justin Sedgmen* [x5]
“I posted a new photo to Facebook”
Jason Garrity*
“Speedway friday dun my bikes and everthing is ready”
21st March
Chris Neath*
“Big day today. Managed about 10 steps all but unaided yesterday so wanna double that today at least. Hopefully getting a splint for my left Leg just to support it cos it doesn’t work properly at the moment. Early days yet but the surgeon is real happy with how its going so far Hopefully try and work my left hand a bit to and see if I can get some movement going in that #nopainnogain”
Hans Andersen*
“On my way to hospital to be examined, something they want If to race in polish league hmmmm oh well…”
David Watt*
“Wait until they attach all the electrodes to your head !! #scareystuff”
Charlie Webster*
“Excited about new Speedway season…just done preview piece for Sky Guide.Reliving Cardiff GP & Coventry’s amazing win of 2010. This season?”
Speedway Star*
“GP riders freight arrived in Auckland. Just has to clear customs mow”
Alan Boon*
“7 heats in and Wolves have 4 riders yet to beat an opponent #longtail”
Niall Strudwick*
“listening to the poole match on the radio, good to listen to some coverage from the BBC, lets hope for more through the season”
22nd March
Chris Neath*
“really starting to detest feeling so seized up after every sleep. Takes me half hour to sort myself out”
Chris Neath*
“Todays breakfast has so far consisted of 8 tablets, some funny tasting water and a syringe of morphine. Just weetabix and toast to go!”
Mark Lemon*
“’Oral Morphine’ now you’re talking #breakfastforinjuredchampions”
Gary Havelock*
“if you try it on you can blag a bottle of Oralmorph to take home mate!!! I did last time”
Kevin Long*
“’It’ll have to be this year Jeff as it really will be my last season of winding people up at speedway :-)’ – guess who on fb!”
Kevin Long*
“you favourite presenter on facebook, saying this is going to be his last year! Its the talk of facebook!”
Josh Grajczonek*
“Could get used to this weather, pitty the 3 days of summer has come early #hereshoping”
Mark Lemon*
“Ipswich Speedway tonight. Foxhall Stadium always reminds me of the Great Billy Saunders even though it’s minus the boxing kangaroo #legend”
Tai Woffinden*
“Just saw a kid kicking a dog in town wish i ran over and broke his leg teach him a leson…”
Nicolai Klindt*
“FML – twice i did the same mistake, if I could i could punch me own face in. only good thing is that sera has dinner ready when i get home.”
Mike Bennett*
“I never actually presented at Odsal although we filmed there for a couple of seasons”
Mike Bennett*
“made my speedway presentation debut at Wimbledon in 1986 and back at Kings Lynn for another season 26 years later. . .”
Tai Woffinden*
“The ref must have been blind in the first one, won my next four heats by half a straight, felt fast”
Sam Masters*
“watch what ya say bro #bigtrouble”
Chris Neath*
“Awesome to be able to get out to speedway tonight and see a few friendly faces and twit pals Olly Allen & Mark Lemon”
Stuart Robson*
“hey fella, I see u got carted off tonight, u ok?”
Chris Neath*
“Just seen on updates me mate Gary Havelock has been carted off to hospital. Hope everything is ok fella #legend”
Dakota North*
“terrible night! #faarrrkk”
David Watt*
“give me a call tomorrow and let me know what’s going on fella”
Dakota North*
“Yeah righto boss!”
Cameron Heeps*
“yours was terrible myn was a disarter then #faarrrkk”
23rd March
Nicolai Klindt*
“just woke up, way too early due to a scheduled flight to poland someone has booked for me….#seasonstartsnow #mustpractice”
Joseph Screen*
“Just woke up to hear about Gary Havelock my thoughts and wishes are with you partner”
Tai Woffinden*
“Man i love the morning polska her we go”
Stuart Robson*
“Havvy has broken his shoulder, collar bone and ribs, torn his lung slightly to, Check Jane (Havvy) on fb status, she’s updated there”
Chris Neath*
“oh fuk, that’s terrible. Thanks for letting me know mate cos I don’t have fb”
Nicolai Klindt*
“i just ain’t lucky with the security lanes atm. this times i waited around cuz of a trainee that needed some extra explanation”
Paul Burbidge*
“Josh Auty appears to have caught fire since his move to Birmingham. He’ll be a shoe-in for Team GB if he carries on like this”
Nicolai Klindt*
“day just gets worse. can’t bring my coffee on sodding ryanairs flight and now it’s not only my gf that says i look like will young”
Fredrik Lindgren*
“Too many injuries to start this new season. Now Gary Havelock best wishes dude!”
Rory Schlein*
“Shit get well havy I can’t belive the injurys this year we are still in march”
Mads Korneliussen*
“okay it’s Friday afternoon and everyone have lost the ability to drive, get a move on ppl #arrrrr #moveoutoftheway”
David Watt*
“Not sure why but I decided to give myself a haircut”
Mark Lemon*
“Hullooo Scotland #greatdayforit”
Joseph Screen*
“My days been very slow today thinking of my mate Gary Havelock hope the pain is easing my friend”
Casper Wortmann*
“On our way to Poland. First stop Poznan airport. Next stop Czestochowa #bringiton”
Chris Neath*
“First time I’ve seen my helmet since the crash and she’s got a nice crack in her And it goes right through, all the way across #impact”
Chris Holder*
“faaaark lucky a good helmet man!”
Tai Woffinden*
“did its job dude”
Martin Neal*
“Havvy’s scan showed no spinal or neck injuries. Severe nerve damage to shoulder, being transferred to Leeds hospital”
Nicolai Klindt*
“had the first skid around a very heavy wroclaw track today. tomorrow is another practice and then a test match in the afternoon”
Torben Olsen*
“Having a nice day off today enjoying the sun in Auckland”
Paul Burbidge*
“We’ve had driving rain and hail in Fox Glacier today. Let’s hope it doesn’t head north! See you on Tuesday night”
Mrs Havelock*
“Gaz is going to Leeds for surgery soon. They are better equipped to deal with nerve trauma. long road ahead. Mrs H x”
Nigel Pearson*
“I see the Brummies took a beating at Cov tonight. Underlines how vital Barker and Auty are to their season. (and I fancy Cov)”
Jo Lowry*
“Felt like the biggest speedway slut ever getting ready in the toilets! The looks I was getting putting my make up on were priceless!”
Adam Roynon*
“Thanks to Jo Lowry for getting my ankle feeling tip top pre meeting too! #bitofpainworksatreat”
24th March
Adam Roynon* [at 02.30]
“Landed back in Worky and a quick nap now then up to wash bikes at 7:30 ready for Workington Comets press day! #speedwaylife”
Troy Batchelor*
“Another Ryan Air flight … Bit of praccie today followed a memorial meeting in Leszno ..#yeahhbuddyy”
Hans Andersen*
“Somerset to Stansted is too fare a journey after a match”
David Watt*
“Had fun at lakeside last night laughing at mechanics change wheels as a race. And I got to ride my bike again. It’s always good to do that ! Watt Racing won 2 cartons of beer last night and I didn’t even have a look at them ! Emil has claimed both I think ! Little fella earned it”
Dick Barrie
“Poole Pirates had started the season like the Diamond Geezers are tonight – seven guys, all kitted out in smart and identical team kevlars Carrying all before them, Poole sailed majestically through their campaign to the EL play-offs and raced the deciding leg against Eastbourne live on TV in front of what I think must have been Britain’s biggest stadium attendance for a league meeting for many a long year.
In short, a huge audience at the track and many, many more on worldwide TV saw the Pirates in action – and what a raggle-taggle band of gypsies they were!
Four of their guys – Holder, Ward, our good friend Davey Watt and Andersson – wore the official kevlars. The other three (Kevin Wolbert, THJ and Ricky Wells) wore an assortment of blue soccer-style jerseys and/or old Poole race-jackets.
The biggest audience for Elite League speedway of the year, and the winners looked like tinkers. Further, the companies who paid to have their logo on TV on the Poole team’s kevlars got short-changed with just over 40% of’ their’ riders being properly attired. I’m sure it is just coincidence they’ve changed their main sponsor for 2012.
Imagine the FA Cup Final at Wembley, and Manchester City turning out on worldwide TV with four of the side wearing old training bibs. You can’t!
Were I involved in the Sky sponsorship of Elite League racing and saw their flagship meeting of the year devalued in this unprofessional manner, I’d be asking some pretty stiff questions of the Poole promotion and the people who are involved in bringing the speedway product to the screen.”
Cory Gathercole*
“Good nights racing at Plymouth. First meetin went alright. Crazy how many people come to watch. Mad croud”
Chris Neath*
“Had a good nights sleep back in my own bed. So nice to be home”
Chris Holder*
“Anyone flying to NZ gp after this wknd…? #help”
Nigel Pearson*
“Apologies to all my email contacts – my account was hacked this morning, but now appears to be restored safely”
Chris Holder*
“AFTER THE WEEKEND”
Nigel Pearson
“So, I’ll go with Poole, Swindon, Lakeside and Coventry as the play-off qualifiers although I also have a feeling Birmingham could be pushing them. And I’ll go for a Poole v Coventry final – sound familiar? Coventry to win the title. There you go.”
Neil Middleditch
“Chris [Holder] won’t be getting as much sleep. Babies cry. I’m sure his partner will be fairly understanding in recognising he needs to get his sleep, because he has such a hectic racing schedule”
Sebastian Alden*
“Cleaning done, carb and clutch are up next”
Fredrik Lindgren*
“Müller rice is alright like but it hasn’t got a chance to compete with Swedish equivalent Risifrutti #justsaying”
David Watt*
“Not sure if it’s possible to be more frustrated than I am right now !!”
Nigel Pearson*
“I thought twitter was about offering opinion and not just self promotion for us media folk”
Troy Batchelor
“It’s quite hard to take every team to heart, but being No. 1 is something special”
Tai Woffinden
“Vargarna have screwed me over pretty big. They still owe me money. I don’t know what they’ve been saying in the press, but I haven’t had a phone call from any Swedish clubs. I’ve had emails from Vargarna saying they’re going to let other clubs know how I’m a bad rider, this, that and the other. I’m not going back there.”
Colin Pratt
“I had one bike and a spare engine but Bettsie had two Jawas, so he was doing well. Nowadays top riders have six to ten bikes scattered round Europe.”
Tom Brown
“There might have been rumours that I had called it quits but that isn’t right”
Mark Lemon
“I’m excited by the [Newcastle] team and this bunch of guys we’ve got. There’s a great blend and there are guys bursting at the seams to jump up to heat leader status.”
Cory Gathercole
“I wasn’t really happy with the way [Newport] handled it. I don’t think they should have signed us all. I don’t know the details of what happened but surely you don’t get up one morning and decide not to run. It must have been working up for a while.”
Troy Batchelor
“I think with the GPs, it’s if your face fits at the time because if you look at the riders in it right now, some of them I wouldn’t exactly call them Grand Prix riders, no disrespect to them”
Nicolai Klindt*
“i really need to get my shit together if i want to be a good speedway rider and not a 2nd half junior. need to stop fannying about! #STOPIT”
Chris Holder*
“grow a set :-P”
Nicolai Klindt*
“fucking trying here, pulling them all night long!”
Chris Holder*
“well it can only get better bro ;-)”
Rory Schlein*
“Up down night to start off with Eastbourne a hard enough place to go to on a good nite. Think some of the boys need some more laps to get”
Ludvig Lindgren*
“Wank meeting 2night gotta sort my gateing gloves out! Well well 2morrow is a new day!”
Mark Lemon*
“I’d lend you mine but can’t find’em”
25th March
Nicki Pedersen*
“Stupid phone Woke mé up 1 Hour too earls. Went to Reception and wanted breakfast and it was Dark they told mé time was only 4am ;0(“
Paul Burbidge*
“Spending the evening in Christchurch NZ. TV cameras may have vanished, but the quake damage is still shocking. City centre is scarily quiet”
Paul Burbidge*
“I hope everyone flying to Auckland today has safe trip. I’ll think of you when I’m chilling in the hot springs at Rotorua tomorrow”
Nigel Pearson*
“sent email to your vodafone account with my Mercury column from today mate. Might be useful for you”
Paul Burbidge*
“Thanks mate. That looks superb. I’ll get something on the SGP website very shortly”
Lewis Bridger*
“Good start to the season with 11pts, shame about my ex 1st heat, my team worked really hard last night, both teams went home safe”
Chris Holder*
“Packing for NZ…. Long way to go to forget something”
Fredrik Lindgren*
“Ok, I’m off to Heathrow and my NZ flight. Here we go!”
Nicki Pedersen*
“Check list before my flight tonight watch Formel1 Spend time with my family Loaded my bag Running 10 km Had a Shower Eating Lasange Of i Go”
Paul Burbidge*
“Up early for my flight from Christchurch to Rotorua. Arriving in Auckland tomorrow night for the NZ SGP”
Chris Holder*
“People watching at heatrow airport….#priceless”
Nicki Pedersen*
“Checked in at Heathrow !!! Waiting for my flight at Emirates Business Lounge NZ here we go ;o)”
Kenneth Bjerre*
“Having a nice meal at heathrow airport. Before team bjerre are off to new zealand. Bring on saturday first grand prix off the season”
Sam Masters*
“Need a mechanic for Wednesday at Poole?”
Hans Andersen*
“Well standing around Dubai airport as the poles need visa but others don’t, strange when they’re also a part of EU #ShitHappens #GoodTimes”
Chris Holder*
“u got 8 hours in Dubai ? On our way”
Nicolai Klindt*
“landed at east midlands airport. wish i could fly this route every sunday after poland. now i just gotta wait for the girl to pick me up!”
Lewis Bridger*
“Big thank you to all my fans that have wished me luck for 2012 season I will do my very best and put 100% in at all times”
Ludvig Lindgren*
“Just got home from Newcastle pretty descent meeting 9+1 from 4 not 100% happy should have been 12 from 4 to be that. Gateing is improving!!”
26th March
Scott Nicholls*
“And welcome to early mornings again!!!! I love my sleep”
Tai Woffinden*
“New airport is bang tidy in wroclaw #justsayin”
Nicolai Klindt*
“bit bored even though i have to look at flights and book tickets”
Paul Burbidge*
“Have a feeling Greg hancock or Nicki Pedersen will win the NZ SGP. But Chris Holder loves temporary tracks & close to home”
Nicolai Klindt*
“’book cheap airline tickets with ryanair’ – £130 for a ticket home from poland in 2 weeks ain’t cheap to me”
Chris Neath*
“Did I really just spill half a bottle of Dr Pepper directly in my new trainer? Yes I bloody well did #nobhead”
Mads Korneliussen*
“5k run just before the sun goes down #keepingfit #theycallme16lapperking fit as fu@k”
Lewis Kerr*
“Bike washed.. God I hate primary chain guards! Looking forward to a skid weds night”
Gary Havelock*
“too many kind thougts to reply to all, but thank you all #trytweetingwithrighthandwhilstlaidonyourback”
Ulrich Ostergaard*
“Nice to hear from you again mate.looked nasty and feeling with you.pls get better soon.we keep thinking of you”
Alan Boon*
“Once again it’s becoming obvious that Horton & Pratt dropped a MASSIVE bollock re:Josh Auty. Not like I didn’t tell them at the time #fools”
Gary Patchett*
“Auty looks fast mate”
David Rowe*
“didn’t he sign for a Friday night PL club? #nochoice”
Gary Patchett*
“When’s he’s a Cov asset? Shouldn’t have given Scunny permission”
Alan Boon*
“Exactly! He had the hump over not being used last year but Morris was scorching. Pratty should have made promises”
David Rowe*
“Have a chat with Colin and he’ll explain what happened!”
Chris Holder*
“Long ass flight! In Melbourne now.. Getting ready to get back on it for another 3 hours”
Nigel Pearson*
“Hope we don’t get less close finishes thanks to scrapping of TR rule after Ht 12 – wouldn’t be good for TV”
Nigel Pearson*
“Speedway is craving new fans and TV viewers so why scrap a rule that makes it less likely to have thrilling finishes?”
Nigel Pearson*
“Let me make it clear – I respect and understand why TR rule was changed but disagree with it. Is that not what twitter is about?”
Ludvig Lindgren*
“actually scoop twitter is a mini blog to let other people follow you and stalk you around. That’s what twitter is for”
Chris Neath*
“getting some stick mate? To be honest I personally don’t agree with it at all and I’ve both lost out and benefited from it”
Chris Neath*
“but I can see why tv would want it to make meetings more nail biting”
Nicki Pedersen*
“Landed in Aussie. Fuel Refilling flight Then now of to New Zealand. we are getting there”
27th March
Nicki Pedersen*
“Just landed In New Zealand Auckland a 27 hours trip Down to Here ;0)”
Nicki Pedersen*
“Arrived at The hotel have just been In The Gym i did 9 km after that long flight feel fresh now !!! Crown Plaza Hotel Auckland New Zealand”
Paul Burbidge*
“I’ve arrived at the Crowne Plaza in Auckland after my draining 40-minute flight from Rotorua. Might just have to get an early night #smug”
Mads Korneliussen*
“Train was spot on today… travel in style”
Paul Burbidge*
“Great to catch up with everybody from SGP scene after the winter. Can’t wait to see the finished track at Western Springs”
Casper Wortmann*
“Thanks to Peter Kildemand for filling my car up with balloons #funny #prank”
Gary Havelock*
“just trying to get on top of this pain i guess #14+broken bones dont help”
Fredrik Lindgren*
“Tried to get closer to NZ timezone since my last meeting in UK and here I am in Auckland 4:30am awake!”
Chris Neath*
“Im alright mate, my clutch hand won’t work though cos of the nerves but I’ll get there”
Fredrik Lindgren*
“Well that’s a real bitch! But at least you’re right-handed right? So you can wipe your own ass without problems #BePositive”
Chris Neath*
“Going to check out Worcesters new asda. Wonder if its better than Tesco?”
Rene Bach*
“it’s still 18* here in South Shields dude! #thatwilldoforme”
Chris Neath*
“Well I still prefer Tesco!”
Paul Burbidge*
“Waiting for the fun bus to Western Springs. The 9.30 left early without me. Looks like I’m early for the 10.30”
Nicki Pedersen*
“Relaxing at the hotel. Are going at 1pm to TV feature for SGP on a Global Ocean Race Boat, around Auckland Harbour”
Chris Holder*
“Jus been racing sailing boats with Greg Hancock & Nicki Pedersen on auckland harbour! Great day for it!”
28th March
Paul Burbidge*
“Sun is slowing setting on a gorgeous day in Auckland. Some massively positive vibes about the NZ SGP track”
Chris Holder
“There’s not a chance in hell that he’ll be British. The only plus point will be that little one won’t have to wait around at the airport when he or she travels because they’ll have a British passport. They’ll cruise through immigration and won’t have to do what I do.”
Chris Neath*
“Did I really see Neil Machin and a load of grasstrack bikes racing round the vale golf club wearing Sheffield race jackets #meds=weirddreams”
David Watt*
“Riiiiiiiiiight ! So I guess your on some good gear ??”
Chris Neath*
“it must be some messed up stuff bro! Every night weird things happen and its all so clear! Maybe they’re spiking me with lsd!”
Nicki Glanz*
“Just been dentist 3500Dkkr for half hour work, just paid his Holliday”
Lee Richardson*
“What a relieve that is!!! Been in Wales all morning getting a new passport! Would of been in trouble if not in Polska Saturday ✈✈✈”
Nicolai Klindt*
“burning my skin while eating a ice cream. gym/bath laters and then pictures to watch ‘hunger games’ #lovinglife”
Speedway Star*
“SpeedwayXtra iss 3 now on-line. Nigel Pearson interview • NZ GP latest • EL Shield plus news, grasstrack and features”
Nigel Pearson*
“still showing last week’s edition on my computer?”
Ricky Kling*
“Sum1 most have put Viagra in My shades. Geting à Hardon on Every girl i look at thru them. Maybe its just the sun”
Lewis Kerr*
“Big crash turn 1 joonus & nemark :/”
Rory Schlein*
“Some great support from the aces fans on twitter thought Linus looked good tonight and paddy was on it but Darcy Ward is a freak”
29th March
Paul Burbidge*
“Glorious day in Auckland. We had a visit from the Maoris at rider/media breakfast and now the bikes are being warmed up”
Paul Burbidge*
“Chris Holder’s family have touched down in Auckland. Great to see them all again. Sounds like baby is still yet to make an appearance”
Paul Burbidge*
“Bill Buckley was presented with a Jawa speedway bike for staging the NZ SGP. His face was a picture – he was over the moon. Great bloke”
Ludvig Lingren*
“Who Dress Like Me, Walk, Talk And Act Like Me And Just Might Be The Next Best Thing But Not Quite Me!”
Paul Burbidge*
“The first practice in Auckland was great. Riders were delighted with the NZ SGP track. Well worth setting alarms for 4am on Sat”
Nigel Pearson*
“First practice for NZ speedway GP in Auckland has gone well. 4am Saturday Sky Sports 1HD”
Nicki Pedersen*
“Had a Nice practise today on The fastest Track ever that was awesome ;0)”
Elite Eagles*
“Kylmakorpi out of hospital. Injuries to collarbone and shoulder socket Hoping to ride again in a month”
Dakota North*
“Thought id wake up feeling a lot better after taking 3 sleeping tablets and having a massive sleep. didn’t work #shithouse”
Tai Woffinden*
“booking flights boring….”
Jeff Scott*
“in the bumper Speedway Star the average age of the EL fans questioned about their team = 49 & PL fans = 62 #sayssomethingaboutthefuture”
Steve Hilliard*
“What future 😉 can’t even use VT of British speedway for sponsors. Speedway is an extreme sport+needs new marketing+PR”
Bryn Smith*
“I best start goin to coventry then”
David Watt*
“So I wonder who will be the first rider to use the excuse “I couldn’t get any fuel and so I ran out” ??? People be going crazy with it today”
Alun John Rossiter*
“Come to the conclusion this government are a bunch of idiots first tax on pies and the incompetence over the petrol disgrace”
Charlie Webster
“I’ve got to know the riders and their different traits but you can’t account for what is going to happen on the night, so most of what you do is off the cuff. You can suddenly be told you need to speak to, say, Jason Crump, but you’ve only got a window of a few seconds to get him. Nikki Pedersen has a reputation, but I enjoy interviewing him. I like people who have a bit of an edge about them and go against the grain. I think he brings so much to the sport, because you need that spark to be one of the best. I once saw him throw a telly across the pits, and when he has a bad race he shouts at everybody. But it shows he has a personality, he is emotional and this means so much to him. I think sometimes it’s good to see that it means that much to the riders.”
Joseph Screen*
“Hope the diesel is flowing in Warrington as I only have methanol and dog wee”
Justin Sedgmen*
“Another good night 9 points bit piss my countershaft bolt broke and got disqualified on 2 mins :(“
30th March
Todd Kurtz*
“S-t-ruggling with this 4am airport run”
Fredrik Lindgren*
“Had the pleasure to meet Wolverhampton Wolves Speedway legend Tommy Sweetman today”
Gary Patchett*
“Still debating the choice of sleep or SGP at 4 am tomorrow. Seemed like no contest but closer it gets the more I’m tempted”
Chris Holder*
“Another sweet day in NZ!! Sick track! Hopefully can get amongst it tomorrow!! #ballstothewall”
David Watt*
“you’ll be fine fella. All over it like a fat kid on cake”
Alan Boon*
“Darcy Ward not in Poole team picture in Speedway Star #probablynothing #interestingthough”
Speedway Star*
“Which Picture isnt he in?”
Alan Boon*
“Don’t have it to hand but there’s a group picture, possibly in the Ford puff piece?”
Speedway Star*
“yes your right, just by chance”
Chris Hunt
“We had a call from Rikki [Mullins] to tell us that he won’t be racing this year, Kevin [Shepherd] and myself are extremely disappointed with him.”
Nigel Pearson*
“Here we go… start of 6 months of madness for me. NZ speedway GP from Auckland, 4am Saturday, Sky Sports 1HD”
Nigel Pearson*
“Aside from my personal favourite Greg Hancock I have to say Jason Crump will be fitter and stronger than at any other time in last 2 yrs”
Nigel Pearson*
“If Fredrik Lindgren has his gating gloves on he will push for a top 5 place this year. He’s a fine rider. Top bloke too!!”
Paul Burbidge*
“Jason Crump is being widely tipped in the NZ SGP pits to win his first SGP since April 2010. After practice, I’d make him fave”
Cameron Woodward*
“Survived my talk on speedway at the University of East London. Their sports lab is sweet as”
Rory Schlein*
“Iv filled 3 vehicles in the last 2 days with out a problem what the big deal there more than 1 servo in ya town”
Joseph Screen*
“There’s more cameras than on a Chinese tour bus on the road from Newcastle to Edinburgh #shocking”
Gary Patchett*
“Strikes me something causing these injuries to riders where bikes doing 360’s for no reason #needtochecktyresout”
31st March
Speedway GP*
“If you’re reading this in Europe, go to bed! Or just get home from the bar by 4am (British time) or 5am (European) to watch the NZ SGP”
Tai Woffinden*
“Home and printing bording cards #happydays”
Rory Schlein*
“Anyone got a link to watch the GP online will be in my hotel”
Joseph Screen*
“Up at 4! Er no ive got sky+”
Nicolai Klindt*
“off to bed at hilton in stansted after a good finish to the meeting a cov tonight. felt much better on the old engine than the new one”
Rory Schlein*
“No luck wifi here is shit keep getting bumped off I’m not happy”
Mark Lemon*
“Looking forward to the 1st SGP of twenty12. Am just getting home from Racing at Scunthorpe, there’s no chance of getting up at 4am #sky+”
Paul Burbidge*
“Congrats Chris Holder & Sealy Middleton on your new baby boy [Max]. Can’t wait to cover his illustrious Team GB career! Lol”
Ludvig Lindgren*
“The best commentator [Tiny Tim Lang] in speedway I seriously love his voice when he gets excited!!! #epicvoice”
Darcy Ward*
“Can’t believe I’m up to watch NZ SGP”
Ludvig Lindgren*
“why are you putting that lie in twitter! It’s Friday you haven’t gone to bed yet fella”
Cameron Woodward*
“dude your fellow swedes kit looks proper rotten! AJ needs to get his crayons out for a re think”
Ludvig Lindgren*
“I second that mate my eyes are bleeding after they showed his pit area”
Darcy Ward*
“OOO ewwwwww”
Alan Boon*
“Is that a tiny desk or have Keith & Sam become giants over the close season?”
Darcy Ward*
“cw bit early for it . How good would it be to be there #iwannaride”
Cameron Woodward*
“couldnt agree more mate. Track looks flat chat too. Oooosh”
Alan Boon*
“This track is so big we should have entered Andrew Appleton instead of Harris!”
Alan Boon*
“We could have just witnessed Peter Ljung’s only point of the series :)”
Darcy Ward*
“Didn’t think I’d care about not being at NZ SGP but sucks not to be . Fuck it maccers bacon n egg mcmuffin calling cheers”
Alan Boon*
“Chris Holder wins race. “We gotta make some changes”. Finishes third. GREAT CHANGES! :)”
Alan Boon*
“Well colour me wrong! #ljung”
Cameron Woodward*
“Greg’s making it look bloody easy. Unreal”
Todd Kurtz*
“Moneys in the dirt fellas”
Pontus Aspgren*
“Lindbäck is faast so is fred, but what happend with AJ?”
Alan Boon*
“Starting to flag… Give me some excitement New Zealand!”
Tai Woffinden*
“If nicky dident lock up emil wouldent have ran into him!”
Darcy Ward*
“salads get you no where !! #spinning”
Ludvig Lindgren*
“man that’s my life motto mate #fatbastard”
Nicolai Klindt*
“can’t find the chewing gum i brought yesterday. can’t find the earphones i put in my bag and is up way to early. but did have a nice coffee!”
Nicolai Klindt*
“pretty exciting to follow the NZ SGP here on Twitter….. must be a track for the big hard racers! who is in it to win it?”
Paul Burbidge*
“What was heat 19 pulled back for? No movement at the start. Strange move by Mr Gardell”
Tai Woffinden*
“Ok i have been up since 9am yesterday all because of the NZ SGP cant be bothered watching any more set my alarm 1pm #dreamland here I come”
Paul Bellamy
“Western Springs is surely one of the prettiest speedway stadiums in the world”
Rory Schlein*
“Luton airport can go suck my big toe W