SIGNING NEWS: Cheetahs snap up exciting British talent Boughen on his 16th birthday
Oxford Speedway is pleased to confirm Ashton Boughen – one of the UK’s most exciting young riders – has signed his first professional contract with the club on his 16th birthday.
The teenager will represent the Monarch Cheetahs and make his highly anticipated debut at Oxford Stadium on Friday night when Plymouth Gladiators visit in the Cab Direct Championship.
Born in King’s Lynn, Norfolk, Boughen is no stranger to Sandy Lane after he made his British Speedway debut at the Cowley venue in October last year when riding for Oxford Chargers in the National League play-offs as an unattached three-point guest.
The 500cc British Youth Champion has since represented Leicester Lion Cubs in the third tier where he has posted 81 points from 46 rides. Boughen put pen to paper on his latest agreement on Monday morning and will replace Luke Killeen as one of two Cheetahs reserves for the remainder of the season.
The club would like to place on record its thanks and appreciation to Luke for his professionalism and understanding upon receiving the news.
Luke’s ability coupled with his determination to develop means he will remain a key part of the WSRA Chargers squad this season and future team building plans at both Championship and National League level.
Cheetahs Team Manager Peter Schroeck said signing Boughen is a significant coup for the club and an opportunity which could not be ignored.
“Ashton is one of the most exciting riders to enter British Speedway in many years,” said Schroeck. “His ability on the bike at such a young age is extraordinary and we’re delighted to have him on board.
“Our Championship campaign is entering an important period with only three regular season fixtures to complete before the play-offs begin. It’s critical we finish top of the league to not only send a message out to our opponents, but also secure the route we want to take to the Grand Final.
“We have every faith in Ashton’s ability to help the team achieve this and look forward to welcoming him into the squad on Friday for his debut. At the same time, we are genuinely devastated for Luke to miss out.
“Luke remains a terrific asset of Oxford Speedway and he has taken his ability to new levels since signing for the club at the beginning of our regeneration campaign. He has had an unfortunate time with injuries which has restricted his time on track, but despite this we remain committed to supporting his future and he still has a big role to play in our National League campaign with Oxford Chargers.
“Naturally, he was gutted when we told him the news. But he respected our decision which to me is the sign of a true professional and he will be a major part of our team building plans for 2024 so we can continue our record of helping young riders to progress.
“He has a wise head on young shoulders and we know he has the talent to help take the Chargers into the National League play-offs.”
Ashton Boughen will make his Cab Direct Championship debut on Friday night when the Monarch Cheetahs host Plymouth Gladiators. Tapes-up is at 7.30pm and tickets are available to purchase now via the club website.
Adults are priced £20 and ALL U16s accompanied by a paying adult can watch for free!