9:03am Thursday 4th February 2010
By Ky Capel
WEYMOUTH Weyline Wildcats have added three new riders to their ranks.
Ex-Rye House and Mildenhall rider Gary Cottham joins the main body of the team, former Swindon Sprocket Nick Lee will occupy one of two reserve spots while young gun Luke Wiltshire is the Cats’ new number eight.
The Radipole Lane outfit have just one slot left to fill and chairman Phil Bartlett, who denied speculation that Australian Leigh Boujos has joined the Wildcats, hopes to complete his line-up in the near future.
Of his latest acquisitions, Bartlett said: “Nick hasn’t ridden for a few years because he was forced to retire due to financial reasons and family commitments.
“He’s keen to come back and he’s even been to our training schools. At 27 he’s not necessarily a youngster in the sport but I’m sure he’ll be one to watch.
“Gary is a talented and hungry rider and hopefully we’ll be able to get the best out of him.
“Luke’s dad Geoff used to ride and is currently a mechanic for Terry Day. Luke is a promising youngster and is another good asset for the club.”
Meanwhile, Dudley Heathens have been accepted into the National League following an AGM at British Speedway’s headquarters in Rugby.
Heathens, who will split their home meetings between Wolves and Birmingham, join Bournemouth, Buxton, Isle of Wight, King’s Lynn, Mildenhall, Newport, Plymouth, Rye House, Scunthorpe and Weymouth in this year’s competition.
Bartlett has welcomed Dudley’s inclusion, adding: “It should be a good year with so many teams involved.”
The National Trophy will be retained with Weymouth, Mildenhall, Isle of Wight, Newport and holders Plymouth all set to compete. Buxton are yet to confirm their involvement.
The National League Riders’ Championship will once again be held at Rye House, the Fours will be staged at Mildenhall, holders Newport will host this year’s Pairs event while the Bronze Helmet takes place at Poole.
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