COACHING: Statement from Bob Prince

Bob Prince has sent in the following statement on behalf of the Cycle Speedway coaching workgroup:

“The cycle speedway coaching workgroup, in conjunction with British Cycling’s Coaching and Education team, are pleased to announce a new initiative regarding coaching in cycle speedway.

“Following the announcement by BC in 2010 that only “discipline specific” qualified coaches could coach riders with less than two brakes on the bikes, cycle speedway adopted a positive approach to this problem. The commission set up a dedicated workgroup whose remit was to encourage more coaches to achieve the relevant qualification.

“The pathway to achieving this discipline specific qualification was long, difficult and expensive. Despite this the sport managed to get over 40 coaches fully qualified, a great achievement.

“Over the past year the cycle speedway workgroup has worked alongside British Cycling in developing a more practical and affordable coaching pathway. A new slim lined and affordable pilot course has replaced the older expensive course.

“On the weekend of 19th and 20th November 2022 10 trainee coaches will attend a face-to-face course which is taking place at the Wednesfield track. Prior to this the candidates will have to complete some online learning which is part of the Level 1 coaching course. Candidates will also have to attend 2 online tutorials via Zoom.

“On day 1 of the face-to-face sessions, a traditional Level 0ne course will be run. On the following day a cycle speedway specific course will take place. An extensive post course evaluation process will also take place in order for candidates to complete the course.

“This if offered at a much-reduced price of £100. (Previously this qualification cost £900).

“This pilot course, if successful, will be offered to other cycling disciplines.

“We are hoping to hold a similar course next season with the possibility of expanding the number of places available.

“The cycle speedway coaching workgroup wish to place on record it’s thanks to Patricia Quirke and Adrian Fox and the rest of the team at British Cycling Coach and Education for all their work in this exciting new development.”