Ruml identifies turn one as an overtaking “hotspot” ahead of Cheetahs’ first meeting

Dillon Ruml has forecast plenty of first corner action at Oxford Speedway this season after putting in his first laps at the historic Cowley venue ahead of launch night next week.

The 23-year-old Californian joined his Monarch Cheetahs teammates for a two-day team bonding exercise ahead of the club’s first competitive fixture in 15 years when Scunthorpe Scorpions visit Oxford Stadium on Wednesday, April 13.

Activities included go-karting, clay pigeon shooting and escape rooms before culminating in a joint press and practice session with Oxford Chargers.

It presented Ruml with his first opportunity to get to grips with British Speedway’s newest circuit – and he believes overtaking opportunities will be rife, particularly entering turn one.

“If a rider sets up a move correctly, I can see plenty of divebombs happening going into turn one,” said Ruml. “I can see Oxford being a track where it’s easier to win if you’re following the leader, because you’ll have the time and vision to counter mistakes of the rider in front.

“If you’re leading at any point, you’ll need eyes in the back of your head. Those types of tracks are always fun to race. The track team has done a fantastic job bringing it to life over the winter and it was really nice to ride.

“I like the shape, and the surface is super smooth as well. Personally, I need to sort out a few things on how to ride it. But, for the most part, I felt good.”

2022 marks Ruml’s second full season in British Speedway after he represented Plymouth Gladiators in the Championship last year.

The two-times AMA Best Pairs American Champion sees no reason why the Monarch Cheetahs can’t compete for top honours and is pleased to be part of the club’s regeneration.

He added: “We’ve got a great team full of talented riders. Not only that, but they’re all friendly, easy to talk to and we all get along great. I’ve really enjoyed being around the team – they’re a bunch of cool people who share my passion for speedway racing.

“I’m really looking forward to the season and challenges ahead. Personally I feel the room for improvement is never ending.

“No matter how good I feel on the bike, I’ll always want to get more out my own performance and that of the bike. After a few more laps, I feel like I’ll be where I want to be.”

Tickets for the Monarch Oxford Cheetahs’ opening fixture against Scunthorpe Scorpions are now SOLD OUT. Tickets for our second home meeting against Poole Pirates on Wednesday, April 20, are now on sale and can be purchased online by clicking here.