RIDER NEWS: Falcons swoop to sign Burke

Edinburgh Falcons have strengthened their side ahead of the 2016 Northern League campaign by signing the hugely experienced Scotland International Jason Burke from Sheffield Rockets.

Burke, who finished second in last season’s TLI British Veterans Individual Championship and fourth in last year’s World Veterans Individual Final, faces a 500 mile round trip to the Redbraes Raceway for home matches but that hasn’t put him off signing for a Falcons side who are looking to improve on last season’s third place League finish.

Burke joins fellow Scottish Internationals Mikey Hewitson, Craig Newsome and Jake Slight in a powerful looking top four, however the Falcons latest signing faces his first big cycling challenge of the year before the cycle speedway season even begins. On 12th March, Jason is embarking on a 150 mile coast to coast tandem cycle from Whitehaven to Tynemouth alongside good friend and rival Gavin Parr.

Jason (middle) back racing for Sheffield, pictured with Gavin (left) and Mark Mulvey (right).

The charity ride is in aid of Cancer Research UK and Sheffield Hospitals Charity and has been launched to celebrate the landmark of 5 years clear for Jason from the horrible disease. Anyone wishing to donate to the challenge should visit www.virginmoneygiving.com/team/tandemchallenge