Wonder Warriors on track for charity event

While the Warriors first team were racing in Eastbourne, the Andrew Younie Smallbrook circuit in Ryde was a packed venue as well.

People gathered there to walk, ride and run laps of the track.

The Warriors home base was the venue for this 24-hour marathon to help deserving charities who are making a difference for people and families dealing with the disease.

Led off on their first lap by Charlie Green, Jack Sculley-Syer, Dawson Sabin, Aidan Hinchliffe and Morgan Williams, all trainees of the My First Skid speedway school, individuals and teams had joined up for a day of togetherness as they chatted and shared stories during laps of the 385 metre track.

It meant the circuit was seen from a rather different perspective by the speedway group Wonder Warriors who are more used to watching from the stands.

Their sterling efforts raised more than £1,000. It was great work from Angie Cooper, Lisa Sokol, Graham Hewitt, Jess Taylor, Anastasia Sallee, Morgan Williams and Vicky Goulbourne magnificently supported by Colin and Steph Whitlock, Chris Jeffery, Lisa Luckman and Jane Harvey.

Speedway co-promoter Barry Bishop was glowing in his praise for all those who took part and he is looking forward to a fantastic 2019 now with the Warriors having completed their season.

He said: '˜What a fabulous day and night we had. I am so proud of all the folks who took part '“ especially our Wonder Warriors '“ and my thanks to all the other volunteers who provided medical support, technical help, refreshments and all the other things that enable these events to run smoothly.

'˜The candlelit remembrance on Saturday night was particularly poignant for all those who have been touched by this horrible disease and it did bring a tear to my eye.

'˜So with 2018 being brilliant, I'm sure we can make 2019 amazing.'

On Saturday, the Isle of Wight Wightlink Wizards race their final Southern Development League fixture against Reading Racers at Eastbourne.

Wizards will hope to repeat their previous success at the Sussex track when they beat Weymouth Wildcats and it will be the same line up again, featuring James Luckman, Jamie Sealey, Chris Watts and Morgan Williams.

While closer to home it's Isle of Wight Day and the club will be flying the speedway flag in the It's A Knockout competition at Northwood House, in Cowes.

At Northwood House, from 3pm to 6pm, the Warrior athletes, who hope to include popular rider and fitness fanatic Danno Verge in the team, will test their skills and agility with tasks involving rushing water, wobbly platforms and crazy inflatables in a fun filled afternoon.

Team coordinator Sarah Green has put together a great gang who are willing and will be pleased to welcome supporters and spectators to provide some vocal encouragement.