Cameron Heeps confirmed as Oxford Cheetahs’ third signing ahead of relaunch
Three-times Western Australian State Champion Cameron Heeps has been confirmed as Oxford Speedway’s third signing for next year’s highly anticipated Championship campaign.
The talented racer joins club captain Scott Nicholls and compatriot Troy Batchelor in making the switch from Kent Kings to lead Cheetahs’ return next spring as part of Oxford Stadium’s regeneration project.
Heeps will celebrate his 10th season of full-time racing in the UK while with the Cheetahs.
The 26-year-old is a League, Knockout Cup, Four-Team and Pairs champion with Mildenhall, but a second-tier honour has so far eluded his trophy cabinet since he arrived from his homeland in 2011.
But the Perth-born Cheetah is confident that record can be changed when representing Oxford 14 years after a wheel was last turned in the city.
He said: “Oxford was my number one choice when I heard the club was returning under Jamie (Courtney, Oxford Speedway Promoter) and I am thrilled to be part of the club’s return.
“I wasn’t even a teenager when the Cheetahs last raced, but I still understand the club’s history and what speedway means to the people of Oxford. Jamie and I developed a good friendship during lockdown, and we quickly reached an agreement once the club’s return had been confirmed.
“He’s putting together a squad capable of challenging for top honours and I’m excited to be involved. Scott and Troy are both experienced riders who I have raced with before and they know how to win a championship. I can’t wait to get started and meet our fans in the spring.”
Heeps has already had several conversations with Cheetahs Captain Scott Nicholls about the return of speedway to Oxford Stadium next year.
A dedicated team of full-time track staff are making minor adjustments to the Sandy Lane racing surface so it meets FIM standards and can deliver quality racing, something Heeps believes will suit his riding style.
“I’m a racer so to learn the track is being widened slightly is great news,” said Heeps. “Scott (Nicholls) believes the track will suit how I ride the bike and I know the stadium’s track team are working hard to deliver the best possible racing surface.
“British speedway has been very good to me since I first raced in 2011. It’s exciting to hear Jamie’s plans to develop a new generation of speedway riders and fans through his work at Oxford.
“I owe a lot to the sport and to be able to engage with supporters old and new will be a great experience for me.”
Jamie Courtney, Oxford Speedway Promoter, added: “Although Cameron is only 26, he adds a wealth of experience to our 2022 Cheetahs team.
“I see great potential in Cameron as a rider and want to see him succeed at Oxford Speedway and add a Championship medal to his honours list. We’re excited to have Cameron on board and wish him every success with Oxford.”