Bomber relishing the challenge ahead with Oxford Spires

Oxford Spires’ new signing Chris Harris is relishing the challenge of helping the team achieve success in the Sports Insure Premiership this season, writes Tom Kitchin.

A three-times British champion, Harris arrives at Oxford Stadium with an impressive CV to his name. The 41-year-old won the British Grand Prix in 2007, has won British Speedway’s top tier on five occasions and spectacularly won last year’s Championship Pairs at Sandy Lane.

He now joins an exciting Spires line-up that also includes Polish superstar Maciej Janowski plus Nicolai Klindt, Rohan Tungate, Lewis Kerr, Charles Wright and Ashton Boughen.

With just over two months to go until the opening fixture of the season, preparation is beginning to ramp up and Harris believes the team is shaping up well to have a strong 2024.

He said: “The hard work starts now – now that Christmas has passed we’re back in the gym getting ready for March.”

“We’ve got a great team with good strength in depth and everyone is up for the challenge.

“It’s difficult with the time difference for the boys over in Australia, but we’ve setup a WhatsApp group to get the team spirit going.”

Harris has been riding at senior level since 1998 but he’s now looking forward to being a home rider in Oxford at a venue he’s previously enjoyed competing in as a visitor – and he can’t wait to see supporters trackside.

He said: “Oxford is a track I’ve always enjoyed going to over the years.

“It’s a great shape so to be a home rider now in the Premiership is very exciting for me – and we’ve found a good setup which works for us in the last two years.

“I’m looking forward to seeing everyone trackside come March; a lot of supporters have asked me when am I going to come and ride for Oxford – which has been answered now!

“Now it’s down to myself and the team to deliver on track. I’m looking forward to working with Peter (Schroeck, Team Manager) who has a great background in the sport and always puts 100 per cent into the job he’s handed.”

Oxford start the Premiership season at home to Birmingham on Thursday, March 14. Further details on season passes is available online via the club website – www.oxfordspeedway.club/tickets.