LEON Flint has vowed that “now is the time” for him to go up a level in world speedway.
The former British Under-19 and Under-21 champion is beginning to find his form with the Allied Vehicles Tigers with consistent performances.
Flint, 21, knows he is a key figure in the team ahead of tonight’s (Friday) crucial clash against Edinburgh at Ashfield Stadium.
He said: “I’ve said it for a number of years now. Now is the time if I’m going to do it. If I’m ever going to do it, this has to be the year, the way I look at it.
“Sometimes I do need to take a step back and think of how far I’ve come and not be too hard on myself. That’s just because of the level I’m aiming for this year.
“I had a chat with Chris Harris last week about some things with the bikes. There were changes that worked for me in the past. Stupidly I’ve not stuck with those changes. But I’m looking to get things right now and in the future.”
Flint’s displays at Ashfield are gaining momentum and he can’t wait to face the Monarchs.
He added: “I think maybe last week the track was a bit different. Personally I changed everything that was possible to change on a speedway bike. Luckily enough the last two heats it all worked.
“In my first couple of heats I struggled out of the start and with speed on the track.
“But once I got there with the set-up I showed that I can ride Ashfield. It was good to get the win with Bomber in Heat 15.
“I can’t wait for Edinburgh. Hopefully we’ll get Ashfield packed out. I’d love nothing more to get the bragging rights against the Monarchs.”
Images by Taylor Lanning.