Sheffield Speedway: Bates targets the title

Sheffield star Josh Bates is a man on a mission as he aims to regain the British Under 21 Championship at Owlerton tonight (7.30).
Josh BatesJosh Bates
Josh Bates

The tenacious Tigers’ ace stormed to the crown on the biggest night of his career so far at Monmore Green two years ago.

He will now aim to provide a home winner as the club host the major event, which is generally one of the most dramatic and action-packed meetings on the British speedway calendar.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Bates knows he will face a stern test from a number of riders – most notably Great Britain international Robert Lambert and Poole star Adam Ellis.

However, he is desperate to make the most of his home track advantage to replicate his magnificent victory in the event back in 2014.

“Winning the Under 21s a couple of years ago was one of the best feelings of my life, so hopefully this year I can do the same again,” Bates said.

“It’s going to be hard, it’s one of those meetings where everyone raises their game and you never know what can happen.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“In those sorts of meetings anyone can win it, just like I did a couple of years ago when nobody expected me to.

“There are a few riders who are going to be tough to beat, Adam Ellis and Robert Lambert are always really fast and there are plenty of others who could do well on the day as well.

“I’m going pretty well around Owlerton at the minute so I’d like to think I can have a good chance around my home track.

“I’d love to win it again in front of my home fans at Sheffield, so I’ll be giving it my best to try and get back to the top of the rostrum.”

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Bates is joined in the line-up by Tigers’ team-mate Nathan Greaves along with former club mascot Max Clegg and local lad Jack Parkinson-Blackburn.

Admission is priced at £13 for adults, £11 for concessions, £5 for children aged 12-17 and £1 for kids aged 4-11.