As the parent of a NL, standard rider, who has experienced mixed fortunes in the NL. I believe you should not stifle talent and to ban riders from other countries would artificially enhance the standard of the British riders, they need this competition, as part of their development. If this was removed from the league they would only come up against it when hitting the premier league therefore delaying the inevitable. They need the flamboyance of the foreigners together with the experience of the more mature riders. I think where the problem stands is the fact that not all riders develop at the same rate this may be for many reasons. A bad accident which has hampered their development. Financial constraints some riders are more financially viable to bring in mechanical expertise, equipment for whatever reason. If they have not hit the bigtime by 16 they will get jobs and have to hold down fulltime jobs, therefore reducing track time I supose a supporter on that basis or even a club would question a riders commitment but it happens or even just plain old different styles of riding and I would urge NL Clubs to consider that aswell. Of course it goes with out saying that Dale Allitt and KL are doing what they can for Chris and my thanks goes out to them(I have no experience of other clubs)but clubs are under so much pressure to role out the next overnight sensation. Darcy Ward has set the bar a little high. Another reason for development inbalances. Darcy Wards Dad and Tai Woffendens, for that matter, were excellent riders themselves therefore these lads have hit the ground running. Anyway to sumise. Points limits fine, foriegn riders fine, mature riders fine but please don't pidgeon hole the lads and just bare in mind that there are other factors that contribute to a riders development. Just because they are not hitting the double figs at 16 is not necessarily because they just can't cut it.
And to Miles I am suprised at the welcome you have recieved at practice sessions and amateur meetings as it has not been our experience. From the day Chris walked into Sheffield speedway track and Ben Wilson took him for his first spin they have been very welcoming. If you ever bump into Team Widman at any of the practices or Amatuer meetings I'm sure they will do what they can to help.
Tina Widman
