Today came the news that our ‘Rising Star’, Connor Bailey, has decided to step down from his place in the 2021 Tigers team.
Connor, who is currently in Australia, broke the news to management this morning. Connor’s reason for being unable to commit to the 2021 season is solely down to the pandemic, the current challenges and costs of getting back to the UK, and the fact that he and his parents would have to pay a substantial amount to quarantine at a hotel on arrival, as well as pay for COVID tests. Connor is disappointed as he was very much looking forward to continuing his journey at Glasgow and in UK Speedway.
Unlike other riders who come in and out of the country for fixtures or full seasons, Connor and his parents emigrated to the UK in 2019 with the intention of it becoming their permanent home. Connor travelled back to Australia for his sister’s wedding at the start of 2020 with the intention of returning to the UK to take his place in our 2020 line-up, however, he was unable to do so due to the pandemic and world-wide lockdowns that lead to the 2020 season being cancelled.
Peter Facenna had this to say about Connor’s departure. “I was pretty disappointed when Connor broke the news to me this morning, but I can fully understand and appreciate the predicament he and his family are in.
“Whilst the current news is sounding very positive in terms of the latest COVID statistics and vaccine rollout, ultimately there can be no guarantees about if and when the season will get underway, and given the costs and challenges of getting back to the UK, together with the fact that Connor and his parents would be moving lock, stock, and barrel again, I can understand why Connor has reached this decision.
“Connor will continue his development in Australia and will be back in the UK at some point in future.
“I’m sure this won’t be the last we’ve seen of Connor as a Tiger and we wish him and his family well.
“We’re working hard to secure a new ‘Rising Star’ and hope to bring news of this very soon.”