So you expect Hausl to end the season with an average of 0.739? He wouldn’t last a month if that was the case

What, that he's paid on time?

True to a degree and we do the same, we tried it with a none Poole rider this year but it didn’t work for us sadly so have gone back and sponsored a Poole rider for 2026. We have experienced so many times in the past, we sponsor - give the money and rarely hear anything from the riders until the time comes again when they need fresh sponsorship for the next year. Not all riders, we dealt with some cracking riders one in particular was exceptional. But with money not so freely available, riders should probably learn quick on that, how many are driving around or flying daily, how long does it take to send a simple text once in a while? Don’t need to be wined and dined but a personal message would go a long way. I hear the same with clubs too. Appreciation goes along way and we don’t put money into riders for the business we do it because I love the sport and want to help riders progress in a small way and hope it helps.  

Chris and Jack Holder, Tom Brennan, Adam Elliss, Ben Cook, all still sponsored by Wessex Marine 

Exactly.  The whole package is worth much more than a big points deal what is interesting though and has seemed to be the case for 30 years or so is that Poole sponsors are loyal to the team rather than the rider.  so when a Poole rider moves on the sponsorship goes and is given instead to a incoming rider.  most riders tend to keep sponsors going forward despite changing clubs. 

Oxford look to have the strongest 1-5 but it's good to see a competitive looking Plymouth team for once. I think 2026 will be an interesting season as all the teams look capable of achieving something.