The feast of speedway taking place at the Smallbrook stadium in Ryde this week moves to Thursday (20 July) when the Wightlink Warriors host the 2023 Nora British and Commonwealth Open Championship sponsored by SES Autoparts. In addition, the Nora British Women's Champion will be crowned, and local youth riders will compete for their own Mini-Masters title.
Whether the meeting can surpass the dramatic events of Tuesday evening must be open to debate, however Jason Edwards, winner for the last two years, will not be bothered one iota as he returns to defend his British Open title, this year extended to enable the inclusion of Commonwealth participants. He will not have an easy ride as super-quick Steve Boxall and battling Lee Complin should be in close contention as will Island favourites Brayden McGuinness, Arran Butcher, George Congreve, and Jake Turner with much interest centring on Andre and former Warrior Benji Compton more normally linked with British Superbikes these days.
The line-up is expected to feature Jason Edwards, Arran Butcher, Brayden McGuinness, Freddy Hodder, Steve Boxall, Benji Compton, George Congreve, Lee Complin, Jake Turner, and Andre Compton.
In the Women's championship holder Katie Gordon will have hoped to have successfully negotiated round 1 on the previous Tuesday and be in a strong position for round 2 whilst local hopes will rest with Island girls Steph Whitlock and Anastasia Sallee with Scotland’s Wendy McAllan also in the meeting.
Finally, the youth riders who perform before all Smallbrook meetings will be given the opportunity to take part in the main meeting as they compete for the Mini-Masters crown. Islanders Jack Scully-Syer and Charlie Green will face friends and rivals Tia Brant and Charlie Southwick in what looks to be a fascinating four-way contest.
Gates at the Smallbrook Stadium open at 5.15pm with the main event starting at 7.00pm. Pre-booking is not needed with admission by cash or card on the night.
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