Nicholls applauds Oxford Speedway’s fanbase after extraordinary Press & Practice turnout

Scott Nicholls tipped his cap to Oxford Speedway’s fanbase on Wednesday evening following the club’s annual Press and Practice session which ended prematurely due to heavy rainfall.

Hundreds of supporters packed into Oxford Stadium to catch a glimpse of the Monarch Cheetahs and WSRA Chargers ahead of Wednesday’s Season Opener at home to Swindon Robins Select.

The seven-times British Champion and his 2023 teammates toured the city centre for a series of a photoshoots in the morning before completing a behind-closed-doors session later in the day.

Riders managed 20 minutes on track during the evening before a sudden downpour prompted team manager Peter Schroeck to end the session to preserve the fitness of his riders before the season begins.

It allowed riders to head into the Savana Bar and Restaurant where fans were able to meet and have their photos taken with the club’s stars of the shale. Nicholls was blown away by the turnout and thanked everyone who turned up for their warm welcoming. 

“It was amazing to see so many supporters turn out,” said Nicholls. “The weather couldn’t play ball, but at least we had the opportunity to introduce our new riders to the fanbase and reconnect with those we haven’t seen during the winter.

“We’re all excited for Wednesday’s challenge against Swindon Select and personally I can’t wait to see the terraces packed as they were last year.”

Cheetahs’ pre-season continues on Wednesday, March 29, when Swindon Robins Select visit OX4 for a challenge fixture.

The Robins will include 2017 World Champion Jason Doyle in their squad plus ex-Cheetah Troy Batchelor and last year’s British Grand Prix wildcard Adam Ellis.

Nicholls believes the fixture will be a good test for he and his teammates ahead of Poole Pirates’ visit the following week (April 5) which will mark the start of the competitive season.

“It was good to get some laps under our belts after the off-season,” said Nicholls. “Jamie (Courtney, Promoter) has put a lot of work into the track through the winter and it rode very well.

“We’ve got a great team with a strong mix of experience and youth which I know excites plenty of people. We’ve got the firepower at the top of the team and some young lads at the other end who are keen to learn.

“I’m confident the team you see now on paper will improve as the season goes on which is what wins you silverware in speedway.

“Making the play-offs is a must. Last year we had the opportunity to find our feet, this year we mean business and we’ve got the team to deliver.”

Tickets for Wednesday’s challenge meeting against Swindon Robins Select are on sale now and can be purchased by clicking here.

The club recommends anyone planning on being trackside who is yet to purchase their ticket to do so at the earliest opportunity due to extraordinary demand for the fixture. Adults are priced £20 while U16s can watch the meeting for FREE!