Bates’ mentor left shocked by Tigers call-up
NEWMARKET JOURNAL APRIL 2011 MILDENHALL STADIUM FEN TIGERS PRESS AND PRACTICE DAY. MICHAEL LEE.
LOUIS Carr has claimed that the Mildenhall Fen Tigers decision to include Josh Bates in their team this season has come as a bit of a shock.
Former Belle Vue Aces and Sheffield Tigers rider Carr, who mentors Bates, was taken back by promoters at the West Row outfit when offering the highly-rated 15 year old a place in their one to seven for their 2012 National League campaign earlier this month.
“This has come as a surprise to us but it is the sort of opportunity that you can’t turn down,” said Carr.
“The idea this year was to try bring Josh into competitive racing by introducing him to some second half races.”
With Bates only recently getting to grips with a full-sized 500cc speedway bike, Carr has warned fans not to expect too much too soon.
“We have not set any targets this season and will be taking everything race by race,” added Carr.
“He is a very determined lad but he knows it will be tough and competitive but he is prepared for that.
“With a lot a of clubs having to draw on inexperienced three-point riders there are quite a few novice riders on a par with Josh.
“If Josh can pick up points in the reserve races that will give him a lot of confidence.”
Away from team-building plans, co-promoter Michael Lee is hoping the introduction of another competitive tournament will be voted in at today’s National League AGM in Rugby to help bolster the fixture list.
“With the amount of clubs in the league it would mean a very short season if another competition is not put on the calendar,” said Lee.
“Maybe bringing back the National League Trophy could be the answer. Having spoke to promoters at Stoke and the Isle of Wight I know they are in favour of having another competition put on.”
In addition to another tournament being introduced, Lee would also like to see one of the National League’s individual tournaments staged at West Row over the coming months.
“It is likely that the National League Riders Championship will stay at Rye House.
“But, with Newport not running this year, it means a new home will be needed for the National League Pairs competition,” added Lee.
“Peter Morrish the National League co-ordinator was impressed by how we put on our last meeting of the season against Scunthorpe so hopefully we may have a chance of getting the competition.”
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