The details of the 2021 National League have been confirmed and the Kent Iwade Garages Royals are finally poised to make their debut as a team in the sport’s third tier/development league.
There have been some changes to the line up which had been assembled for what was to be an abortive 2020 campaign as Kent Speedway co-promoter, Len Silver explains,
“Two of our expected members of the Iwade Garage Royals will be missing. Both Jordan Jenkins and Sam Hagon asked for a move to a week-end track due to work commitments. Coming into the side as immediate replacements will be a new No. 1, Ryan Kinsley; and a teenager from Plymouth last year, in the early days of a promising career, joining on full transfer, Jamie Bursill.
“Also joining the regular members, Daniel Gilkes, skipper Rob Ledwith, Jacob Clouting and Jake Mulford, will be a fresh new young rider, recommended by Kent-born, former British Champion Danny King – this is 20-year-old, Josh Warren.
“Alex Spooner has had to been released to keep our team within the new points limit of 35.00. We thank Alex and also Jordan for their service as riders at Kent Speedway club and wish them and Sam all the best for the new season.”
In terms of the line up of clubs in the 2021 NL, there’s a distinct shift northwards with Edinburgh-based Armadale Devils coming in, plus sides from Berwick and Newcastle. Sadly the Isle of Wight drop out for this term.
Also back in the NL and providing lively local Derby opposition for the Royals are near neighbours, Eastbourne – with familiar rivals Mildenhall Fen Tigers and the reigning champions, Leicester Lion Cubs completing the (currently) seven team line up..
British Speedway Promoters Ltd Chairman, Rob Godfrey said in launching the new look National Development League: “The purpose of the league is to go back to the traditions of the third tier in British Speedway and we want to see new riders coming into the sport. We hope to see some fresh faces coming into the sport as part of the pathway up the levels in British Speedway for younger riders and those with limited experience.”
CONFIRMED TEAMS: Armadale Devils; Berwick; Eastbourne; Leicester Lion Cubs; Kent Royals, Mildenhall Fen Tigers; Newcastle Gems; Belle Vue Colts.