The next pieces in the jigsaw to bring the Kent Kings back to track operating at Iwade under the NORA umbrella have been put in place with the appointment of two key management positions.
Coming in as Team Manager is Ben Clifton – son of former Canterbury Crusaders rider Graham Clifton and someone who has been a key player for the Kings’ club since their Central Park days.
Ashford-based Ben commented, “After a winter of doubt, a big thanks goes to Steve Ribbons taking the reins at Iwade and we have Speedway carrying on in the county.”
“Whilst I was shocked to be offered the Team Manager’s role, it really didn’t take much time to accept. I can only say thanks to Steve for putting his faith in me, and what a side he has put in place for me to lead.
“I’m lucky that other than Sam Ward I know all the other lads well and I am sure they will be fully supportive as I take my virgin steps into Team Management.
“I also count former team bosses Chris Hunt and Jamie Willis as personal friends and I am sure both will be getting the odd ‘phone call looking for advice!”
Also providing continuity from the former Central Park days is Ribbons’ appointment of a new role for the Kings of a General Manager, with Derek Barclay being brought into that role.
The Press supremo for the Kings throughout their tenure in Sittingbourne, Barclay has been Press Officer at Mildenhall the past two seasons and is delighted to be back at Kent,
“My working relationship with Steve dates back to those heady days of 2002 when he reopened Wimbledon Speedway. It’s ‘against all odds’ things like that by Steve which to me really show the enthusiasm and drive needed to make a success out of running Speedway and this is exactly what we’ll be bringing to Kent operating in a new way under NORA. I’m delighted to be back on board”.
Ribbons added, “I have asked Derek Barclay to be our General Manager and I am honoured he has accepted. Both Derek and myself ,despite coming from different backgrounds, care deeply for the sport of Speedway racing and are determined to make this season a success and secure the future of the Kent Kings”.
Part of making that success happen is of course, as with all clubs, around giving sponsorship opportunities for individuals and local companies to play their part.
A full set of such packages including sponsoring a meeting, second half and heat sponsorship are revealed this week – with details on the club’s brand-new website at www.kent-speedway.co.uk