FANS are expected to flock to Owlerton Stadium in big numbers for Sheffield Speedway’s opening meeting of the season against the mighty Belle Vue Aces on Thursday (7.45).
Interest in the event has been high ever since the teams were announced and the Manchester club have declared a full strength Elite League side – including British Grand Prix star Chris Harris.
Harris was one of the best riders in the world in the last two months of the Grand Prix season, rubbing shoulders with world champions Tomasz Gollob, Jason Crump and Nicki Pedersen and often beating them.
Now he is up against Eric Boocock’s Tigers who have high hopes of success in the Premier League this season.
It’s a mouthwatering prospect for Sheffield fans to see the likes of Harris in action alongside top international stars Charlie Gjedde, Patrick Hougaard and Rory Schlein.
Tigers hand a debut to big winter signing Shane Parker who will start the season in the number one slot and youngster Ashley Birks gets his first Premier League chance at reserve.
Said boss Boocock: “Looking down the league I think we have every chance of being successful this season but anything can happen in this sport.
“It’s a tough way to start the season against Belle Vue, both clubs are desperate to win because it’s a ‘War of the Roses’ match but we know how tough it’s going to be against a team from a higher league.”
Admission prices remain at 2010 levels but a souvenir programme will be available for this meeting to purchase in addition. The carvery will also make a welcome return for the new season with the best value food in town at £7.95 in the restaurant with the best seats in the house.
