By Henry Chard
The Ipswich ‘Tru Mix’ Witches have signed Dan Thompson as their Rising Star for 2024.
Thompson’s season with Ipswich was ended early due to injury in 2023 but he is looking to build on his promising start to life in Suffolk next season.
“The way I finished with Ipswich was disappointing as I couldn’t carry on due to my injury, but I was trying to be back for those last few play-off meetings, but it just wasn’t quite ready,” said Thompson. “I am over the moon to be back next year and feel I can definitely build on what I did this year.
“I don’t have a lot of experience of the Sports Insure Premiership tracks, so I came in and tried to learn Ipswich as fast as I could and dealt with the away tracks as they were coming. It was a great experience and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I am grateful for the opportunity to be back again next year.”
The 19-year-old suffered a dislocated shoulder after a crash in August but made a return to racing at the end of October where he picked up the British Under-19 title.
“It was the worst time for it to happen as I was reaching really good form and was happy with all of my equipment and how I was riding, that wasn’t good. I’ve had two- and a-bit months off since my injury and I am feeling a lot better. I have been back in the gym and obviously did a few meetings at the end of October which went well. I’ll be looking to strengthen up and make sure I am in the best possible fitness for next year.
“The British Under-19 title was awesome, and it was a great way to come back having not really done much. It was a tough time on the sidelines and to come back and relight that spark was a great feeling.”
The Nuneaton-born rider enjoyed learning from some of the team’s more experienced riders last season with the focus now turning to 2024.
“It was amazing this year and they all give you help and support. Obviously, there is only so much they can tell you about bike setups, but they were all really helpful to me and I am grateful for that.
“So far, I am in the gym every day trying to strengthen my shoulder and my overall fitness and I will probably be working over the winter to keep myself busy and trying to get on the bike here and there but that is difficult with the weather. I want to make sure I am in a good position by the time March comes around.”
Digital Media Manager at Ipswich Speedway