CLUB NEWS: Ricki and Marc star while Juniors shine
The Birmingham Monarchs Cycle Speedway club held its presentation night on Friday with some popular winners on the night.
Ricki Johnson took the senior rider’s rider of the year trophy, whilst 14 year old Hamstead based rider, Marc Phipps won the junior riders rider of the year trophy. The awards voted for on the night by the riders.
Phipps also collected the trophy for Junior GP champion of the year, with a consistent series and comfortably top scored in the competition.
The other big success of the year proved to be Jake Steel, who won most improved rider of the year and best under 16 rider. Steel only took up the sport this year and has improved rapidly.
Meanwhile, his younger brother, Connor Steel won best under 12 rider. The 10 year old was also crowned under 10 Midlands champion in the British Youth and Junior competition (BYJL) this year too.
Popular girl rider, Rebekah Humphries won best newcomer of the year and it was a double celebration as it was also her 11th birthday.
Other winners included Aiden Parker (best 10 yrs and under), Charlie Buet Gannon (best Sutton Games newcomer) and Mark Winwood, who was the team managers rider of the year. Tracy Arkinstall was voted clubperson of the year by popular demand.
The biggest cheer however was reserved for the junior team who were confirmed as Junior Champions for the Midlands for the second year running. Each of the juniors winning a personal trophy.
The evening proved a great success with the room packed with the biggest turn out for several years. Thanks to many new parents and youngsters to the sport.
The night was also about reflecting on the season just completed. A third place finish in the Midlands first Division whilst the second division team finished towards the bottom of the table, not what the club expects or is used to.
A positive 2016 saw the club have a presence at the Sutton Games in the summer, with nearly 300 youngsters trying the sport for the first time.
The senior team were crowned indoor champions in January, they will be looking to defend that title in Coventry in January 2017.
The club also hosted a hugely successful Second City Trophy meeting in October to prove that hosting big meetings is something the club can do within the sport.
The club are continuing with training sessions on Sundays, 1-3pm, while weather allows. Newcomers are welcome to come and try Cycle Speedway.
Cover photo by Andy Whitehouse.