SHEFFIELD Tigers are counting down to the new Speedway season – and they have a host of high profile meetings.

The Owlerton side open their season against the world famous Elite League club Belle Vue Aces, who are expected to include British Grand Prix star Chris Harris after his winter move from Coventry.

The Manchester men will visit on Thursday, March 17. Seven days earlier, March 10, the club will host their press and practice day, starting at 3pm.

Sheffield have also been handed a British Semi-Final for a second successive season as the race for the national title, currently held by Harris, intensifies on Thursday, May 19.

And in a further boost for the club they will once again host the Premier League Riders’ Championship on behalf of the British Speedway Promoters’ Association. The meeting, which always pulls in a massive crowd, features as part of the Speedway GB events series on Sunday, September 25.

Tigers owner Neil Machin said: “We are in for a great season at Sheffield with the best fixture list we have had for a number of years.

“Our fans are in for a treat and we cannot wait for the season to start. The team are geared up for it and we’d love to beat the Elite League boys from Belle Vue on opening night!”

Press and practice on March 10 is open to the public. Rider presentations will be made in the Panorama Room at 3pm before heading down for outdoor pictures and track action at 4pm.