Author Archives: Henry Chard

About Henry Chard

Digital Media Manager at Ipswich Speedway

RACEDAY PREVIEW: OXFORD – ROWE MOTOR OIL PREMIERSHIP R2 (A)

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Image courtesy of Jeff Davies

By Henry Chard

All the details ahead of our ROWE Motor Oil Premiership R2 fixture with Oxford.

WHEN & WHERE

The Ipswich ‘Tru7 Group’ Witches travel to Oxford to face the Spires at the Oxford Stadium on Thursday 13th June in a ROWE Motor Oil Premiership R2 fixture that starts at 7.30pm.

TEAMS

OXFORD: 1. Rohan Tungate 7.38 2. Charles Wright 6.36 3. Lewis Kerr 5.26 4. Maciej Janowski 5.18 5. Chris Harris 6.64 © 6. Erik Riss 4.74 7. Ashton Boughen (RS). Team Manager: Peter Schroeck

IPSWICH: 1. R/R for Jason Doyle 9.36 2. Dan Thompson 4.46 (RS) 3. Adam Ellis 5.95 4. Norick Blödorn (G) 7.50 5. Emil Sayfutdinov 9.24 © 6. Keynan Rew 4.15 7. Jordan Jenkins 4.00. Team Manager: Ritchie Hawkins

REFEREE: C. Turnbull

ROWE MOTOR OIL PREMIERSHIP TABLE

TeamMeetingsPoints
Ipswich1121
Sheffield1017
Belle Vue1117
Oxford1113
Leicester1012
Birmingham116
King’s Lynn*81
*King’s Lynn deducted 2 league points on 18.05.24 for breach of SCB rules.

TICKETS

Tickets are available to purchase online in advance here.

THE STORY

The Ipswich ‘Tru7 Group’ Witches travel to Oxford in the ROWE Motor Oil Premiership on Thursday.

The Witches returned to league action on Monday at home to Sheffield and recorded a 50-40 win over the reigning champions to go four points clear at the top of the table.

The visitors will be operating rider replacement at number one for the injured Jason Doyle whilst Norick Blödorn comes in for the injured Danny King. Blödorn raced to an impressive 12+1 on his last guest appearance for the Witches away at Birmingham. The management continue to work on a replacement for Doyle, who is out for the season, whilst skipper King is edging closer to a return.

The Suffolk side won on their previous visit to the Oxford Stadium, picking up a 48-42 victory back in April.

FROM THE BOSS

Ipswich ‘Tru7 Group’ Witches team manager Ritchie Hawkins gives us his pre-match thoughts…

“We are expecting a really tough test, when you look at them on paper, they are a really good team. We won there earlier in the year, and we were very good that night, so we will need a similar performance from everybody. We will have rider replacement for Jason at one, so that means we can’t be carrying any passengers and Norick is coming in for Danny. After his performance at Birmingham, I’m sure everyone is delighted to see him in an Ipswich race jacket again and he will be very happy to come in and we look forward to having him.

“Danny is hoping to get back on the bike again later this week. After his practice last Thursday, he needed another week off, but we hope he will be back for our next home match next Thursday.

“I have heard a lot of rumours, talk and questions about who is coming in for Jason. At this current time, we have no progress to report, and we will be carrying on with guests and R/R for the time being. We will continue working on it as we would prefer to have a full one to seven if possible.”

THE SPIRES

Oxford have made a solid return to the top-flight and currently find themselves in fourth position in the table. It is their first time back at the top table of British speedway since 2007 and they’ve started strongly at home with five wins from six outings so far, that defeat coming at the hands of Ipswich. Their home meetings tend to be tight ones though with their biggest margin of victory being 47-43. 

Rohan Tungate has moved to the number one position for the Spires since we last faced them with former Grand Prix rider Maciej Janowski moving to number four. Recent Ipswich guest Chris Harris captains Oxford and Lewis Kerr is now at number three having returned from injury.

AWAY DAYS

An adult ticket costs £22 with accompanied children under 16 going free if bought in advance. There is a £2 price increase for adult tickets purchased on the day. Due to limited parking at the stadium, free parking will be available thanks to Unipart at their site just a short walk from the stadium (approx 800m) on a first come first served basis, please remember to select this option if required when purchasing your tickets as this will be required when arriving at the car park. A free shuttle bus service will be provided to and from the stadium from the Unipart car park site. Unipart postcode is OX4 2PG. Limited disabled car parking is available at the stadium; these spaces are on a first come first served basis. For further information head here.

For more information about the club head to Oxford’s official website.

RACEDAY REPORT: IPSWICH 50–40 SHEFFIELD – ROWE MOTOR OIL PREMIERSHIP R1 (H)

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By Henry Chard

MEETING SPONSORS

Tru7 Group – Tru7 Group is a diversified supplier to the construction, demolition and agriculture industries. Their premium fleet has state-of-the-art safety technology, and they make sure you have the right vehicle or operator for the job, saving time, fuel and emissions. With service and sustainability core to their business, their fast-growing portfolio offers van, truck and plant rental and sales, demolition and remediation, earthworks, asbestos removal, concrete and aggregates.

Scott Properties – Scott Properties is a self-funded Land Promoter operating throughout the East of England, East Midlands and the South East. Working closely with Landowners and Local Authorities, they manage the land promotion and planning process from initial site identification through to the sale of consented development sites.

THE SCORES

IPSWICH 50: Chris Harris (G) 7, Dan Thompson (RS) 3, Scott Nicholls (G) 9+1 Adam Ellis 8+3, Emil Sayfutdinov © 9, Keynan Rew 10, Jordan Jenkins 4+2. Team Manager: Ritchie Hawkins

SHEFFIELD 40: Jack Holder 11, Kyle Howarth © 6+1, Chris Holder 5, Josh Pickering 3, Tai Woffinden 10+1, Jason Edwards 1, Dan Gilkes (RS) 4. Team Manager: Simon Stead

REFEREE: C. Gay

ROWE MOTOR OIL PREMIERSHIP TABLE

TeamMeetingsPoints
Ipswich1121
Sheffield1017
Belle Vue1117
Oxford1113
Leicester1012
Birmingham116
King’s Lynn*81
*King’s Lynn deducted 2 league points on 18.05.24 for breach of SCB rules.

THE STORY

The Ipswich ‘Tru7 Group’ Witches extended their lead at the top of the ROWE Motor Oil Premiership with a win against Sheffield on Monday night at Foxhall.

The hosts had Chris Harris and Scott Nicholls guesting for the injured duo of Jason Doyle and Danny King whilst the visitors were at full strength for this top of the table clash. Ipswich were in pole position to take the aggregate bonus point having won 46-44 at Owlerton but after a maximum to the Tigers in heat one it looked like it was going to be a tough night. However, the table-topping Witches dusted themselves down and levelled immediately before consistently adding heat advantages throughout the night and sealing the deal with a race to spare. Keynan Rew top scored with 10.

Sheffield hit a maximum in heat one, but the Witches responded in heat two with a 5-1 of their own thanks to Rew and Jordan Jenkins. The home team edged in front in heat three as Adam Ellis took victory and Nicholls was in third for the 4-2. Heat four was stopped as Tai Woffinden hit the fence coming out of turn four and was excluded. Tigers Rising Star Dan Gilkes pulled off a shock result in the re-run holding off Emil Sayfutdinov to win and ensure a 3-3 that made the score 13-11 to the home team.

Nicholls and Ellis teamed up for a 5-1 in heat five to go six in front. Woffinden just about beat Harris to the line in heat six as the Tigers bagged a heat advantage, but it was cancelled out in heat seven as Sayfutdinov won with Rew in third for Ipswich. Rew was back out in heat eight and duly picked up three points in another 4-2 to the Witches that put them 28-20 in front.

Woffinden was a winner again in a shared heat nine and in heat 10, having failed to score in his two previous rides, Dan Thompson turned his night around by picking up three points in a Witches 4-2. In heat 11 it was Sheffield’s turn to record a 2-4 as Jack Holder won and Sayfutdinov had to work hard to get the better of Kyle Howarth for second. Woffinden came in as a tactical substitute in heat 12 and he provided the race win for the away team as they narrowed the gap with another heat advantage, making it 39-33 to the home team.

Harris got his first race win of the night in a shared heat 13 and it was all over as a contest after heat 14 as Rew and Ellis raced to a maximum. The night ended with a 3-3 as the Witches maintained their 100% home record in 2024.

REACTION FROM THE BOSS

Ipswich ‘Tru7 Group’ Witches team manager Ritchie Hawkins reflects on Monday’s win against Sheffield.

“It was a brilliant night, and I am delighted with the result. Massive credit to the track staff again, the track was under water this morning and we have had showers throughout the day, but they managed to get the meeting on with no bother on the track at all. The team were solid throughout and every one of them contributed with a paid win.

“The results are brilliant, and everything is going great on the track. You would think there will come a point where it might catch up with us with all the injury problems we have had, but we have got people coming back in and it feels a bit like we are through the worst of it. With the results and performances and how everyone has done you wouldn’t know all the issues we have had with rider availability, and I am delighted with the boys. The atmosphere and team spirit are amazing and that is what is helping us get through what should be a really tough period.

“We are all covering each other. Jordan is improving week after week and contributing valuable points. Dan has clearly got some aftereffects from his virus which I’m sure everyone can relate to, he was tired but that race in heat 10, to come out after a couple of tough rides and win shows so much about his character.

“Keynan has stepped it up a level or two in recent weeks and Adam was superb tonight. That leaves you with Emil and two good guests tonight, so when you go out on track knowing all seven riders are capable of winning races, it is a massive bonus to me.”

TRU7 GROUP & SCOTT PROPERTIES RIDERS OF THE NIGHT

Tru7 Group chose Ellis who scored 8+3, dropping just a point to an opposition rider.

Scott Properties went for Rew who top scored with 10 which included three race wins.

WHAT IT MEANS

Ipswich pick up all three points on offer and go four points clear of second-placed Sheffield in the table.

UP NEXT

The Ipswich ‘Tru7 Group’ Witches travel to Oxford to take on the Spires on Thursday 13th June in the ROWE Motor Oil Premiership. Tickets can be purchased on the gate and in advance here.

RACEDAY REPORT: 2024 ATTIS INSURANCE SPORTS DIVISION BRITISH FINAL

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Image courtesy of Ian Charles

By Henry Chard

THE SCORES

QUALIFYING SCORES: Tom Brennan 13, Dan Bewley 12, Steve Worrall 11, Tai Woffinden 10, Chris Harris 10, Adam Ellis 9, Robert Lambert 9, Charles Wright 8, Anders Rowe 7, Kyle Howarth 6, Craig Cook 6, Connor Mountain 6, Jordan Jenkins 5, Lewis Kerr 4, Drew Kemp 4, Simon Lambert 0.

SEMI-FINAL: Woffinden, Harris, Worrall, Ellis

FINAL: Bewley, Woffinden, Brennan, Harris

REFEREE: A. Steele

THE STORY

Dan Bewley made it a hat-trick of British titles after winning Saturday’s Attis Insurance Sports Division British Final at the National Speedway Stadium.

The Ipswich ‘Tru7 Group’ Witches duo of Adam Ellis and Jordan Jenkins both had positive nights. Ellis, who has just returned to racing after a dislocated shoulder, made it to the semi-final whilst Jordan Jenkins scored five points on an encouraging debut in the event.

Ellis made a good start in heat two but had to settle for second as Tai Woffinden came around him out of the second turn of the opening lap. Heat four was stopped as Jenkins took a fall with Charles Wright coming under him on the first turn of the third lap and Wright was excluded with the race awarded meaning Jenkins picked up a point.

Jenkins settled into third in heat five with all four riders well spread out as Craig Cook took victory.  Ellis was relegated to the back in heat seven by Chris Harris as Wright held off Bewley at the front.

Both Witches were out in heat 12 and it was an Ipswich one-two as Ellis took the chequered flag ahead of teammate Jenkins.

Ellis finished in third in heat 13 behind race winner Tom Brennan and Drew Kemp. Jenkins was in a star-studded heat 14 and finished fourth as Woffinden won ahead of fellow Grand Prix riders Bewley and Robert Lambert.

Ellis got a crucial win in heat 18 as he beat Robert Lambert to book his spot in the semi-final and in the process that sent the current world number three out in a shock early exit. Jenkins ended his evening by winning the battle at the back against Connor Mountain for another point on what was a good showing from the youngster in his first British Final.

Ellis couldn’t make it into the final as he finished at the back in the semi-final, and it was Woffinden who went from last to first to progress with Harris also making it in second.

Woffinden led the final, but Bewley charged under him to secure the title for a third consecutive year with Brennan third on the podium, securing the Wild Card at the Cardiff Grand Prix.

REACTION FROM THE BOSS

Ipswich ‘Tru7 Group’ Witches team manager Ritchie Hawkins reflects on Saturday’s event.

“It was just great to see Adam back from his recent injury, let alone getting right in the mix and making the semi-final. Obviously, he was very disappointed to miss out on the final, but the semi was one of those races that could have gone any way and unfortunately, he was on the rough end of the stick on the opening lap.

“It was a really creditable performance from Jordan, he was called up at late notice but managed to put on a good showing, continuing the positive progress he’s made in recent weeks.

“Congratulations to Dan who won another British title, it was a superb ride in the final and he was the best rider overall on the night. It was also great to see Tom Brennan finishing third and I’m sure he will do well at Cardiff when he gets there.

“Also, a note on Dan Thompson who was in Italy today in the SGP 2 qualifier. He just missed out on the final, but it was still a very solid performance scoring 10 points and finishing 6th. It was a great experience for him that I’m sure he’ll use to his advantage next season.”

UP NEXT

The Ipswich ‘Tru7 Group’ Witches host the Sheffield Tigers at Foxhall Stadium on Monday 10th June in the ROWE Motor Oil Premiership. Tickets can be purchased on the gate and in advance here.

RACEDAY PREVIEW: 2024 ATTIS INSURANCE SPORTS DIVISION BRITISH FINAL

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By Henry Chard

All the details ahead of the 2024 Attis Insurance Sports Division British Final.

WHEN & WHERE

The 2024 Attis Insurance Sports Division British Final takes place at the National Speedway Stadium on Saturday 8th June in an individual fixture that starts at 7.30pm, live on Eurosport.

LINE-UP

1. Drew Kemp 2. Robert Lambert 3. Chris Harris 4. Simon Lambert 5. Craig Cook 6. Connor Mountain 7. Adam Ellis 8. Tai Woffinden 9. Lewis Kerr 10. Steve Worrall 11. Dan Bewley 12. Anders Rowe 13. Jordan Jenkins 14. Tom Brennan 15. Charles Wright 16. Kyle Howarth. Reserves: 17. Freddy Hodder 18. Matt Marson

REFEREE: A. Steele

TICKETS

Tickets are available to buy online and on the gate.

THE STORY

The Ipswich ‘Tru7 Group’ Witches are represented at Saturday’s Attis Insurance Sports Division British Final in Manchester by Adam Ellis and Jordan Jenkins.

The individual event takes place at the National Speedway Stadium with sixteen riders doing battle to become the British champion.

Ellis made his comeback from injury this week following a dislocated shoulder, scoring 6+2 in Ipswich’s win over Birmingham at Foxhall on Thursday. Ellis has tasted success in this event, winning the title in 2021.

Ipswich skipper Danny King was due to make his return from injury in this meeting but having had some practice laps at Foxhall on Thursday felt a comeback was too soon and was forced to withdraw.

Jenkins was a late call-up to the event as a replacement for Rory Schlein who was injured in a crash on Friday and it will be his British Final debut having only been a reserve in the past.

The winner of the meeting, or the next best placed ‘non-GP’ rider if Dan Bewley, Robert Lambert or Tai Woffinden win the title, will receive a Wild Card for the British Grand Prix at Cardiff on August 17.

We wish Adam and Jordan all the best and hope to welcome another British champion back to Suffolk.

FROM THE BOSS

Ipswich ‘Tru7 Group’ Witches team manager Ritchie Hawkins gives his pre-match thoughts…

“Adam heads to the British Final on Saturday and he is a previous winner and someone we know can go well at Belle Vue if it all clicks for him. We are fully behind him, and it would be great to see him do well.

“Danny had a skid after Thursday’s meeting and although he is not that far off being full fit now, he is not quite there, and it is not worth him risking it. On the balance of things, it is not the best thing to do for him long-term which is a great shame because the form he started the season in with us would have seen him in with a great shout of winning another title. It is a big disappointment for him but I’m sure he will come back next year and fight for it.

“It looks a strong field with all the GP boys in it and it will be good to see everyone going at it around Belle Vue. Hopefully the weather is good to them, and it should be a great meeting, one I look forward to watching.”

THE CONTENDERS

Bewley is looking to make it a hat-trick of titles having won in 2022 and 2023 but he will face stiff competition this year from fellow Grand Prix riders Lambert and Woffinden. Lambert has not competed since he won the event in 2018 whilst Woffinden is making his first appearance since 2015. Craig Cook, Chris Harris and Charles Wright have all tasted glory before and will be looking to add to their titles.

AWAY DAYS

Tickets can be purchased here. For more information about your visit to the National Speedway Stadium, head here.

For more information about the club head to Belle Vue’s official website.

RACEDAY PREVIEW: SHEFFIELD – ROWE MOTOR OIL PREMIERSHIP R1 (H)

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By Henry Chard

All the details ahead of our ROWE Motor Oil Premiership R1 fixture with Sheffield.

WHEN & WHERE

The Ipswich ‘Tru7 Group’ Witches host the Sheffield Tigers at Foxhall Stadium on Monday 10th June in a ROWE Motor Oil Premiership R1 fixture. Parade: 7.30pm, first race: 7:45pm.

MEETING SPONSORS

Tru7 Group – Tru7 Group is a diversified supplier to the construction, demolition and agriculture industries. Their premium fleet has state-of-the-art safety technology, and they make sure you have the right vehicle or operator for the job, saving time, fuel and emissions. With service and sustainability core to their business, their fast-growing portfolio offers van, truck and plant rental and sales, demolition and remediation, earthworks, asbestos removal, concrete and aggregates.

Scott Properties – Scott Properties is a self-funded Land Promoter operating throughout the East of England, East Midlands and the South East. Working closely with Landowners and Local Authorities, they manage the land promotion and planning process from initial site identification through to the sale of consented development sites.

TEAMS

IPSWICH: 1. Chris Harris (G) 9.36 2. Dan Thompson 4.46 (RS) 3. Scott Nicholls (G) 7.50 4. Adam Ellis 5.95 5. Emil Sayfutdinov 9.24 © 6. Keynan Rew 4.15 7. Jordan Jenkins 4.00. Team Manager: Ritchie Hawkins

SHEFFIELD: 1. Jack Holder 8.86 2. Kyle Howarth 5.32 © 3. Chris Holder 7.83 4. Josh Pickering 6.92 5. Tai Woffinden 8.71 6. Jason Edwards 3.00 7. Dan Gilkes (RS). Team Manager: Simon Stead

REFEREE: C. Gay

ROWE MOTOR OIL PREMIERSHIP TABLE

TeamMeetingsPoints
Ipswich1018
Sheffield917
Belle Vue1117
Oxford1113
Leicester1012
Birmingham116
King’s Lynn*81
*King’s Lynn deducted 2 league points on 18.05.24 for breach of SCB rules.

TICKETS

Tickets are available to buy online (until 7pm on raceday) and on the gate and are priced at £23 for adults and £21 for concessions (65+) & students (21 & under). Tickets for children aged 6-16 are £1 whilst children 5 & under go free. Official programmes are priced at £3.50 and are available at the stadium. Car parking is free for all supporters. Debit and credit card payments are accepted. Turnstiles open at 6.40pm.

THE STORY

The Ipswich ‘Tru7 Group’ Witches race at Foxhall again on Monday evening as they welcome the Sheffield Tigers in the ROWE Motor Oil Premiership.

The Witches were in Knockout Cup action last week, beating Birmingham home and away in the semi-final to book their spot in the final as they remain on course to retain their title. Attention now turns back to the league with the second-placed Tigers posing a stern test.

The home side are gradually getting members of the team back to full fitness and Dan Thompson returns to the side at number two following illness. Scott Nicholls guests again for Danny King who is not yet ready to return, and Chris Harris deputises at number one for the injured Jason Doyle.

A win for Ipswich would see them pick up the aggregate bonus point too having defeated Sheffield in the reverse fixture and would extend their lead at the top of the table.

FROM THE BOSS

Ipswich ‘Tru7 Group’ Witches team manager Ritchie Hawkins gives us his pre-match thoughts…

“We are back for a rare Monday meeting against the reigning champions, and we are coming into the meeting without our number one and captain which is not an ideal scenario when you are facing Sheffield. We have got a couple of great guests coming in with Chris and Scotty and Sheffield will be coming to avenge the victory we got at their place. We want to walk away with three points, and I think it will be another close, tough battle.

“We welcome Dan back and it is great to have another rider back alongside Adam. We are slowly getting there and when Scotty comes in, he doesn’t feel like a guest. We know what we are going to get with Chris, and they have both been brilliant on their recent visits to Foxhall so we will hope for the same again. We are putting out a good one to seven and one that is capable of winning the meeting, so we have got to come out again and keep fighting.

“I’m sure everyone will be looking forward to Emil going to battle with the big stars from Sheffield. They are bringing a lot of big names and I think it is going to be one hell of a meeting for everyone at Foxhall, it should be a classic.”

THE TIGERS

Sheffield are going along strongly this season as they look to retain their title. The Tigers currently occupy second place in the table just a point behind Ipswich and have a good record on the road with three wins from four outings. The visitors will be hoping to get one over the Witches on Monday after Ipswich inflicted a 46-44 defeat on Simon Stead’s men in the reverse fixture at Owlerton.

The visitors have two current Grand Prix riders in their ranks with Jack Holder and Tai Woffinden at one and five. Former world champion Chris Holder is at number three to ensure there will be plenty of big-name battles on Thursday night in Suffolk.

RACEDAY REPORT: IPSWICH (97) 51–39 (83) BIRMINGHAM – KNOCKOUT CUP SEMI-FINAL SECOND LEG (H)

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By Henry Chard

THE SCORES

IPSWICH 51: Chris Harris (G) 11+1, Dan Thompson (RS) R/R, Sam Masters (G) 9+1, Adam Ellis 6+2, Emil Sayfutdinov © 6+1, Keynan Rew 14+1, Jordan Jenkins 5+1, Freddy Hodder DNR. Team Manager: Ritchie Hawkins

BIRMINGHAM 39: Fredrik Lindgren 12, Steve Worrall R/R, Wiktor Lampart 8+1, Justin Sedgmen 4, Tom Brennan © 10, Piotr Pawlicki 3, Leon Flint (RS) 2+1. Team Manager: Sam Ermolenko

REFEREE: G. Allen

KNOCKOUT CUP DRAW

QUARTER-FINALS

First Leg: Belle Vue 49-41 Sheffield. Second Leg: Sheffield 49–41 Belle Vue – Sheffield win super heat

First Leg: Leicester 42-48 Ipswich. Second Leg: Ipswich 47–43 Leicester

SEMI-FINALS

First Leg: Birmingham 44-46 Ipswich. Second Leg: Ipswich 51-39 Birmingham

First Leg: King’s Lynn 50-40 Sheffield

FINAL

Ipswich vs King’s Lynn/Sheffield

THE STORY

The Ipswich ‘Tru7 Group’ Witches remain on course to retain their Knockout Cup title after they defeated Birmingham in the semi-final at Foxhall on Thursday.

The hosts had Chris Harris and Sam Masters guesting for the injured duo of Jason Doyle and Danny King whilst rider replacement was in operation for the ill Dan Thompson. The visitors handed a debut to world number two Fredrik Lindgren but were without captain Steve Worrall with rider replacement covering his absence. Having won the first leg 46-44 at Perry Barr on Monday, the Suffolk side were in the box seat to progress and after a tight opening to the second leg, the Witches proved to have too much for the visitors as they secured their spot in final. Keynan Rew top scored with 14+1.

Lindgren won heat one as Harris managed to get past Justin Sedgmen to reduce the damage to a 2-4 but the Witches went ahead in heat two courtesy of a maximum from Rew and Jordan Jenkins. The points were shared in heat three before heat four was stopped as Jenkins hit the deck with Emil Sayfutdinov leading at the time. Tom Brennan won the re-run in a Brummies heat advantage that levelled it at 12-12.

Ipswich banged in a 5-1 in heat five thanks to Masters and Adam Ellis, who was making his return from injury for the Witches. Harris was victorious in heat six with Jenkins picking up a point for a 4-2. Sayfutdinov was leading heat seven but was forced to retire with machinery issues, handing a heat advantage to the visitors. Ellis took the chequered flag in heat eight as the home team rode to another 4-2 to give them a 27-21 lead.

Brennan edged out Masters to win a shared heat nine before Rew won heat 10 as Harris picked off both Brummies riders to join him at the front for a maximum. Sayfutdinov finally got a race win to his name in heat 11 with Jenkins in third for a 4-2. Masters won a shared heat 12 making it 42-30 on the night with the Witches cruising their way into the final.

Another Knockout Cup final was all mathematically confirmed after heat 13 despite Lindgren picking up three points in a 3-3. Rew was first across the line in heat 14 as the points were shared again and it was another 3-3 in the final race of the night as Ipswich made it back-to-back finals in the competition.

REACTION FROM THE BOSS

Ipswich ‘Tru7 Group’ Witches team manager Ritchie Hawkins reflects on Thursday’s win against Birmingham.

“I thought it was a great all round team performance again. I felt it was a really tough meeting, Birmingham came and really took it to us and fair play to them for that, they certainly fought hard and look like they have the makings of a good team there. I was really pleased with how our boys fought, as a unit we covered each other and covered the ones missing and covered ones carrying knocks. Every single person contributed again which is what we need at this moment, and I am thrilled to be in another final and by the time the final comes around hopefully we have got a full one to seven back.

“Keynan has scored a bag full of points this week and that has made a massive difference in us getting to that final. We needed him to step up and he has certainly rose to the occasion and done it. It is great to see, and it is nice to see him fulfilling all his potential. I think he is growing in confidence, and everything is going to plan for him at the moment.

“We know what we are getting with Chris who was superb again, he always comes in and does a good job and Sam showed his liking to Foxhall and I think he enjoyed his meeting with us, and we enjoyed having him.

“We managed Adam’s rides and a grippy Foxhall wasn’t necessarily the easiest track for him to return on, but he has come through it and now he will be off to Belle Vue on Saturday, and we hope everything goes well for him there.”

RIDER OF THE NIGHT

As was the case in Monday’s first leg, Rew starred from reserve, scoring 14+1 points which included three race wins.

WHAT IT MEANS

Ipswich will race in the Knockout Cup final, currently scheduled for September where they will face either King’s Lynn or Sheffield.

UP NEXT

The Ipswich ‘Tru7 Group’ Witches host the Sheffield Tigers at Foxhall Stadium on Monday 10th June in the ROWE Motor Oil Premiership. Tickets can be purchased on the gate and in advance here.

RACEDAY PREVIEW: BIRMINGHAM – KNOCKOUT CUP SEMI-FINAL SECOND LEG (H)

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By Henry Chard

All the details ahead of our Knockout Cup semi-final second leg fixture with Birmingham.

WHEN & WHERE

The Ipswich ‘Tru7 Group’ Witches host the Birmingham Brummies at Foxhall Stadium on Thursday 6th June in a Knockout Cup semi-final second leg fixture. Parade: 7.30pm, first race: 7:45pm.

TEAMS

IPSWICH: 1. Chris Harris (G) 9.36 2. R/R for Dan Thompson 4.46 (RS) 3. Sam Masters (G) 7.50 4. Adam Ellis 5.95 5. Emil Sayfutdinov 9.24 © 6. Keynan Rew 4.15 7. Jordan Jenkins 4.00 8. Freddy Hodder. Team Manager: Ritchie Hawkins

BIRMINGHAM: 1. Fredrik Lindgren 8.00 2. R/R for Steve Worrall 6.19 3. Wiktor Lampart 4.63 4. Justin Sedgmen 5.07 5. Tom Brennan 6.64 © 6. Piotr Pawlicki 4.48 7. Leon Flint (RS). Team Manager: Sam Ermolenko

REFEREE: G. Allen

KNOCKOUT CUP DRAW

QUARTER-FINALS

First Leg: Belle Vue 49-41 Sheffield. Second Leg: Sheffield 49–41 Belle Vue – Sheffield win super heat

First Leg: Leicester 42-48 Ipswich. Second Leg: Ipswich 47–43 Leicester

SEMI-FINALS

First Leg: Birmingham 44-46 Ipswich

King’s Lynn vs Sheffield

TICKETS

Tickets are available to buy online (until 7pm on raceday) and on the gate and are priced at £23 for adults and £21 for concessions (65+) & students (21 & under). Tickets for children aged 6-16 are £1 whilst children 5 & under go free. Official programmes are priced at £3.50 and are available at the stadium. Car parking is free for all supporters. Debit and credit card payments are accepted. Turnstiles open at 6.40pm.

THE STORY

The Ipswich ‘Tru7 Group’ Witches entertain the Birmingham Brummies at Foxhall on Thursday night in the second leg of their Knockout Cup semi-final tie.

The two sides met at Perry Barr Stadium on Monday in the first leg, and it was the Witches who fought back from behind to pull off a shock win despite having just three of their own riders due to injuries and illness. The Suffolk side hold a two-point lead going into Thursday, knowing that any kind of win or draw will see them progress to the final for the second year in a row as they look to retain the trophy.

It’s mixed news on the injury and illness front for the hosts. Skipper Danny King is not ready to return just yet and Sam Masters guests in his place. With Jason Doyle ruled out for the rest of the season, the management are assessing options of how he can be replaced but for Thursday it is Chris Harris who guests at number one. Dan Thompson is ruled out with illness and rider replacement will be in operation at number two. The positive news comes in the form of Adam Ellis who is back in the side at number four following a dislocated shoulder. Freddy Hodder will be our number eight rider.

FROM THE BOSS

Ipswich ‘Tru7 Group’ Witches team manager Ritchie Hawkins gives us his pre-match thoughts…

“Despite our injury problems I feel we still have a strong side out on Thursday. We have a couple of guests in that we know can do a really good job at Foxhall and with rider replacement for Dan and the form Keynan has been showing as well as Jordan’s form picking up, we hope we can cover those rides well. It will be great to have Adam back for this and we are hoping it is a success ahead of Saturday’s British Final.

“We have a two-point lead, but they will be coming here to overturn that, and we know how quickly things can change and fall apart in speedway. we have to be focused and make sure we get the win and keep that fighting spirit we have shown so far this season to get ourselves in the position we are in despite some adversity.

“Danny is still undergoing intense physio and the recovery is taking a little longer than we had hoped but he is still trying his very best to be back for the British Final on Saturday and then we will look to see if he can be back with us next week and we all look forward to that but we still need to leave it day by day for his recovery.

“We are still looking at options for Doyley, we are in a great position at the moment and if we can do anything we want to make sure it is the right move but I’m sure as everyone can appreciate it is a difficult task and not one to be rushed. We will look at options and see what we can do, and we will do what is best for Ipswich speedway and do our very best to make us the strongest team out on track.”

THE BRUMMIES

Birmingham’s season is really not going to plan so far, with the club struggling in the league the Knockout Cup represented a new opportunity for them but a shock home defeat to the depleted Witches on Monday leaves them with it all to do in the second leg of this semi-final. The visitors can take positives from their last visit to Foxhall where they ran Ipswich close before being defeated 49-41.

There is a boost for the away team ahead of this fixture with the news that new signing Fredrik Lindgren is clear to make his debut for the club. The world number two who currently sits seventh in the Grand Prix standings comes in and replaces Zach Cook in the side. Rider replacement will be in operation for Steve Worrall who has labyrinthitis.

RACEDAY REPORT: BIRMINGHAM 44-46 IPSWICH – KNOCKOUT CUP SEMI-FINAL FIRST LEG (A)

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Image courtesy of Phil McGlynn

By Rob Binns

THE SCORES

BIRMINGHAM 44: Tom Brennan © 9, Wiktor Lampart 4, Zach Cook 5+1, Justin Sedgmen 15+1, Steve Worrall R/R, Piotr Pawlicki 10+2, Leon Flint (RS) 1+1. Team Manager: Sam Ermolenko

IPSWICH 46: Jason Doyle R/R, Freddy Hodder (G) 0, Scott Nicholls (G) 2, Norick Blödorn (G) 12+1, Emil Sayfutdinov © 15+1, Keynan Rew 13+2, Jordan Jenkins 4+1. Team Manager: Ritchie Hawkins

REFEREE: A. Steele

KNOCKOUT CUP DRAW

QUARTER-FINALS

First Leg: Belle Vue 49-41 Sheffield. Second Leg: Sheffield 49–41 Belle Vue – Sheffield win super heat

First Leg: Leicester 42-48 Ipswich. Second Leg: Ipswich 47–43 Leicester

SEMI-FINALS

First Leg: Birmingham 44-46 Ipswich

King’s Lynn vs Sheffield

THE STORY

The Ipswich ‘Tru7 Group’ Witches battled through their injuries to produce a stunning 44-46 fightback victory against the Birmingham Brummies at the Perry Barr Stadium in the Knockout Cup semi-final first leg.

The visitors were once again without the injured Danny King, Jason Doyle and Adam Ellis with Dan Thompson also forced to pull out on the morning of raceday due to illness. Rider replacement was being used for Doyle by the Witches and for Steve Worrall by the Brummies whilst Scott Nicholls, Norick Blödorn and Freddy Hodder were guests for Ipswich. Emil Sayfutdinov top scored with 15+1.

The hosts claimed an early heat advantage in heat one which was won by Tom Brennan with Nicholls producing a smart overtake on Wiktor Lampart to prevent a Brummies maximum. Piotr Pawlicki won a shared heat two before Nicholls was excluded from heat three as he packed up at the tapes which also saw Zach Cook hit the tapes. In the re-run Pawlicki, reserve substitute for Cook, took the chequered flag with Justin Sedgmen in second for a Birmingham maximum. Sayfutdinov and Keynan Rew hit straight back with an Ipswich maximum in heat four to make it 13-11 to the hosts.

Sedgmen took the win in a Birmingham heat advantage in heat five before Brennan won heat six under heavy pressure from Sayfutdinov with Lampart in third to earn another Brummies 4-2. Blödorn produced a fantastic ride including a great pass on the inside of Sedgmen to win a shared heat seven. Jordan Jenkins won a shared heat eight to take the score to 27-21 Birmingham.

The hosts earned another heat advantage in heat nine courtesy of Sedgmen and Cook. Referee Tony Steele judged that one of the riders had moved early on the start line which saw heat 10 re-run. Nicholls hit the tapes in the restart which saw Rew come in as a reserve substitute and he raced to victory with Blödorn close behind for a Witches maximum. Sayfutdinov defended Pawlicki brilliantly to win a shared heat 11. Rew produced a stunning move to pass both Brummies riders in the same corner and win a shared heat 12 to take the scores to 38-34 to the hosts.

Blödorn and Sayfutdinov hit a crucial maximum in heat 13 with the Witches guest taking the chequered flag. Sedgmen won a shared heat 14 to keep the tie level going into the final heat. Sayfutdinov and Blödorn were selected by Ritchie Hawkins and they produced the goods, riding to a heat advantage that secured a narrow lead going into the second leg as the Ipswich number five took the victory in the decisive heat 15.

REACTION FROM THE BOSS

Ipswich ‘Tru7 Group’ Witches team manager Ritchie Hawkins reflects on Monday’s win at Birmingham.

“After a very stressful day with losing Dan this morning to illness, I’m absolutely delighted with the fight from the boys. Obviously, we were down early and fighting all meeting, but the spirit here seems to be rubbing off onto our guests! It made it all worthwhile coming away with a win for all the effort today.

“Freddy had a free pass; he wasn’t expected to do anything, but he actually really impressed me, and I thought he was right on the pace. If the boy can ride like that then he’s got a big future. I felt that with the other five, we always had a chance of winning the meeting and that proved the case even though Scotty had a bad day, but Norick had an exceptionally good day and so did Kenny. Thanks to all the guests for their efforts because they were superb and really fit into the team well.

“It leaves us in a great position going into Thursday, but we’ll have another couple of guests and rider replacement again so it’s still going to be tough. They have still got a very solid team so we can’t relax off, we need to keep fighting. We certainly want to get through to a cup final and we’re in a great position again to do that.”

RIDER OF THE NIGHT

Rew scored 13+2 and produced some superb rides at key moments in the meeting to help the visitors battle back from eight points behind to lead.

WHAT IT MEANS

Ipswich take a narrow two-point lead back to Foxhall for the second leg as they bid to retain the Knockout Cup.

UP NEXT

The Ipswich ‘Tru7 Group’ Witches host the Birmingham Brummies at Foxhall Stadium on Thursday 6th June in the Knockout Cup. Tickets can be purchased on the gate and in advance here.

RACEDAY PREVIEW: BIRMINGHAM – KNOCKOUT CUP SEMI-FINAL FIRST LEG (A)

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Image courtesy of Jeff Davies

By Henry Chard

All the details ahead of our Knockout Cup semi-final first leg fixture with Birmingham.

WHEN & WHERE

The Ipswich ‘Tru7 Group’ Witches travel to Birmingham to face the Brummies at the Perry Barr Stadium on Monday 3rd June in a Knockout Cup semi-final first leg fixture that starts at 7.30pm.

TEAMS

BIRMINGHAM: 1. Tom Brennan 6.64 2. Wiktor Lampart 4.63 3. Zach Cook 4.84 4. Justin Sedgmen 5.07 5. R/R for Steve Worrall 6.19 6. Piotr Pawlicki 4.48 7. Leon Flint (RS). Team Manager: Sam Ermolenko

IPSWICH: 1. R/R for Jason Doyle 9.36 2. Freddy Hodder (G) 4.46 (RS) 3. Scott Nicholls (G) 7.50 4. Norick Blödorn (G) 5.95 5. Emil Sayfutdinov 9.24 © 6. Keynan Rew 4.15 7. Jordan Jenkins 4.00. Team Manager: Ritchie Hawkins

REFEREE: A. Steele

KNOCKOUT CUP DRAW

QUARTER-FINALS

First Leg: Belle Vue 49-41 Sheffield. Second Leg: Sheffield 49–41 Belle Vue – Sheffield win super heat

First Leg: Leicester 42-48 Ipswich. Second Leg: Ipswich 47–43 Leicester

SEMI-FINALS

Birmingham vs Ipswich

King’s Lynn vs Sheffield

TICKETS

Tickets are available to purchase on the gate and in advance here.

THE STORY

The Ipswich ‘Tru7 Group’ Witches are back at Birmingham for the second time in a week as they face the Brummies in the Knockout Cup semi-final.

A depleted Witches side pushed Birmingham all the way last Monday before succumbing to a 49-41 defeat as the hosts then won a super heat for the aggregate bonus point. The Suffolk side then secured their spot in the last four of the cup after they beat Leicester at Foxhall on Thursday despite all of their injury troubles.

The visitors remain without the injured trio of Danny King, Jason Doyle and Adam Ellis for this fixture and on raceday have lost Dan Thompson to illness. Ipswich have been rocked by the news that Doyle will miss the remainder of the 2024 season due to a shoulder injury sustained in that crash at King’s Lynn.

Rider replacement is once again in operation for Doyle at number one whilst Scott Nicholls guests again for King, having scored 17 points for Ipswich against Leicester. Norick Blödorn comes in a guest for Ellis at number four and Freddy Hodder will replace Thompson, who has Covid. There’s also a change in the riding order due to a new set of averages with stand-in captain Emil Sayfutdinov now at number five.

Ritchie Hawkins will be hoping his patched-up side can improve on last week’s defeat at Perry Barr before bringing the Brummies back to Foxhall later in the week for the second leg as the holders look to retain their title and reach the final again.

FROM THE BOSS

Ipswich ‘Tru7 Group’ Witches team manager Ritchie Hawkins gives us his pre-match thoughts…

“All of us at the club are gutted with the news on Jason’s injury, not just for us but for him personally. He has started the season flying and was really looking set to attack the Grand Prix and fight for another world title. He was in superb form all over the world and it is a huge loss for us but I’m sure he will stay around the team and the club because his influence and presence will still contribute and be a bonus for the team.

“I’m delighted welcome back Scott again; he was booked a while ago knowing we were going here, and Adam wouldn’t be fit for this meeting. Scott was lined up straight away and he is tremendous form this season and has done a terrific job for us, and we are delighted to have him again. We will keep calling on him as often as possible for both parties.

“We welcome Norick into the side and we are delighted to have the opportunity for him to have a guest booking for us, I’m sure he will be keen to do well, and it will be our first opportunity to work with him. He is a really nice kid and is doing really well, he made his first GP appearance recently and I’m sure he will enjoy it with us.

“Suitable number ones are hard to come by and we have spoken to a few riders to guest in place of Jason but unfortunately none of them are available so we will be running R/R which means the rest of the team need to step up. It is a great opportunity for them, and it is an extra race for them, and they need to keep stepping up like they did last Thursday and try and cover Jason the best we can.

“We struggled last Monday but this is a cup semi-final now and we want to retain that trophy. We were so proud to win it last year and we want to keep hold of it. It is a big week for the boys, and we are determined to qualify, and I feel we are in a better position this week than we were last week, a few of the boys being there recently should help them and we have the team line-up better this week. After our performance last Thursday which I thought was brilliant in the circumstances hopefully we can carry on that confidence, and we are going there looking to win the meeting and set ourselves up for Thursday.”

THE BRUMMIES

Birmingham were boosted by last week’s three-point haul against Ipswich but failed to build upon it as they followed it up with a heavy defeat at Sheffield on Thursday. They have it all to do if they are to make the top four after a poor start to the season, but the Knockout Cup presents a clean slate for the hosts as they look to take advantage of the Witches’ injury problems again and establish a healthy lead to take to Suffolk.

The hosts announced that new signing Freddie Lindgren would be joining the club from the beginning of June, but he does not make his debut in this fixture. There are big changes to the home team’s riding order with Tom Brennan now at number one and former number one Piotr Pawlicki now down at reserve. Wiktor Lampart is also now out of a reserve berth. Rider replacement is in operation for Steve Worrall who was taken ill yesterday and diagnosed with labyrinthitis at hospital.

AWAY DAYS

An adult ticket costs £23, concessions £20, students (17-22 with proof of ID) £10 and children 16 and under go free. Official programmes cost £3.00 and car parking is £3.00. There is a modern three level grandstand extending for the full length of the home straight. On ground level there is a bar and refreshments area plus souvenir sales shop. Closed circuit television monitors show the racing and replays. There are also extensive bar and restaurant and light refreshment facilities.

For more information about the club head to Birmingham’s official website.

DOYLE RULED OUT FOR THE SEASON

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By Henry Chard

The Ipswich ‘Tru7 Group’ Witches have been rocked by the news that Jason Doyle will miss the remainder of the 2024 season.

Doyle was involved in a heavy crash at King’s Lynn in May, spiralling over the fence and landing on concrete. He suffered four broken ribs and a lung contusion as well as experiencing numbness in his left shoulder but was still hopeful of returning to action in the near future.

However, the Witches number one had further MRI scans on his shoulder at hospital two days after the crash and after further tests and scans in Poland on Friday the extent of the shoulder damage was confirmed. The former world champion has snapped two tendons and torn his rotator cuff which need immediate treatment.

Doyle will undergo an operation on Tuesday and will be on the sidelines for a period of four to six months meaning he will sit out the remainder of the campaign.

It comes as a huge blow to the Australian who had started the Grand Prix series strongly and sat third in the standings, having won Round 2 in Warsaw.

Everyone at Ipswich wishes Jason all the best in his recovery and he will remain part of the team in the pits at Foxhall this season.