Speedway bosses Barry Bishop and Martin Widman are celebrating news of two prestigious award nominations announced earlier this week.
Firstly, the hardworking duo were surprised but delighted to hear that they were on the list of nominees for a Local Heroes Award – an event organised by the Isle of Wight radio station and supported by several Island businesses who have come together to recognise people who help make the Island a remarkable place to live, people who give more than they ever take and people who consistently go above and beyond. Cowes Yacht Haven is the venue for the ceremony that will take place on 8 November.
Secondly, the ‘Wightlink’ Warriors have been acknowledged by their peers in the speedway world as the World Speedway Riders Association (WSRA) have, for the second year running, nominated the Island side for the Community Club of the Year award. Last year the Warriors were just edged out of the top honour by Somerset, but this year face new competition from the speedway teams based at Berwick-Upon-Tweed and Sittingbourne in Kent. With the Warriors ever increasing involvement with all age groups in the community and widespread praise from visitors and locals alike, there will be optimism that the Warriors will come out on top of the pile this time round. The WSRA presentation evening takes place in Leicester on 17 November.
Barry Bishop said “What a week for us. After our own marvellous presentation night last weekend we now receive these two fantastic nominations – both of which have come right out of the blue. I am truly speechless and so proud that all of the effort by everyone connected to the club has produced these wonderful accolades. Just to receive nominations makes us winners – if we were to pick up either award, well, that would be icing on the cake”.