We hope, with just less than a fortnight until the 2014 Tigers squad gathers for the first time, that the excitement is mounting in your household – we’ll all be gathered back at Ashfield for the launch of a bright new season in no time at all.
The closer the season opener gets, the more work there seems to be to have everything ship shape.
We are closing in on completing the signing of our final team member and now hope to be able to announce him within the next 72 hours.
Meantime, with so much happening, here’s a few reminders of what’s coming up shortly:
Press and Practice – Wednesday 26th March from 2pm
Little under 2 weeks away now, your very first chance to run your eye over the new look Tigers as they take to the Ashfield shale for the first time.
We’re holding a public practice session this year, with the riders practice scheduled to get underway from 2pm – entry is free, we hope to have some food and drinks available for purchase too.
Meet your Riders – Wednesday 26th March from 7:30pm
We’re excited to stage an opportunity for you to meet your new team, and at a brand new speedway friendly venue.
Whether you were / weren’t able to see the riders go through their practice paces in the afternoon, this evening event gives you the perfect chance to relax amongst fellow Tigers supporters and get to know your new favourites.
Venue is the Eagle Lodge in nearby Bishopbriggs (directly opposite Asda), just 10 minutes drive from Ashfield. Doors open from 7:15pm with the event starting at 7:30pm till 10pm – entry is just £3 adults and £1 for children with all monies going towards our fence fund.
Sunday Working Party
With help from a number of hero supporters over several weeks now, we have completed a lot of the bigger jobs in and around the stadium, however still have some work to complete in the next two weekends. First up this Sunday morning, from 10:30, we again appeal for supporters to lend a hand for a couple of hours to help complete a number of jobs ranging from sweeping, to weeding, to painting.
As usual we will look after you with some food and warm drinks.
10 Match Ticket Book
We are aware that not everyone can necessarily comfortably afford a full season ticket in the current financial climate. Having listened to various supporter views, we are delighted to now extend the ability to purchase an adult admission ticket enabling a maximum of 10 admissions during the 2014 season (excludes air fence fund raiser, benefit and testimonial events).
Cost of this 10 Match Ticket (adults only) is £150. Applications should be made, in the first instance, via email to info@glasgowtigers.co
Seeking Heat and Tyre Sponsors!
With a new programme to be designed and printed in the next fortnight we’d be grateful to hear from anyone (business, individual, family or group!) who would be interested in sponsoring one of the remaining available heats, or indeed to help the riders with the cost of tyres for a couple of meetings. All details can be found here
Rusty and his Didgeri-Do!
It’s a BIG season in many ways for Rusty, and that’s before he truly gets underway as a Tiger!
Our likeable Aussie is celebrating his testimonial at Workington Speedway on 5th April and has pulled together an entertaining line-up and lots of fun for all.
Download his Didgeri-do poster here.
In the second interview with a new Tiger, Rusty shares some of his thoughts and early season expectations for the season ahead – see below for his interview and details of his testimonial.
Next week
Listen out for our announcement of the final Tiger early next week …and we will also be able to bring you news of another important off track partnership for 2014.
Hope to see some of you at the track this Sunday, sunshine is ordered!
Rusty Harrison – interview
Welcome to Glasgow, what’s your message to the Glasgow fans?
Thanks for having me back again, 3rd time lucky 😉
This season is a big one for you, being your testimonial season – how are preparations coming along?
Things are coming along really well, i’m glad it’s early on in the year and then I can concentrate on my own racing
How do you look upon your speedway / race career so far?
Enjoyed most of my racing career, had success at various levels, not quite hit the heights I hoped for, but still enjoying it so hoping for more success.
2014 as a Glasgow Tiger – how does that feel?
Fantastic, really looking forward to it, I like the track and hopefully with the extra fitness I’ve done this winter it will all pay off.
What can the Glasgow fans expect from you this season?
Hopefully some good racing. I’ve changed clutches so maybe a few better gates too.
What are you most looking forward to this season?
Enjoying myself and having some good races.
Tell the Glasgow fans one or two things they won’t know about you
I’ve had cosmetic surgery (ears pinned back when I was a kid ha ha )
For you, what’s the best part about being a speedway rider?
The thrill and buzz of racing and winning. It’s a unique sport.
How would you describe your riding style?
Slow starter, good round the outside. I like riding next to the fence.
What is your pre-meeting ritual?
Don’t really have one, like to be organised and at the track pretty early though.
What do you enjoy doing away from the speedway track?
I go to the gym, I play squash, I like playing golf (don’t get to play much at the moment).
Spending time with my partner and kids.
What are your best, worst and first speedway memories?
Best – Winning Aussie Under 21’s.
Worst – Breaking Coccyx.
First – Playing on dirt mounds at Northarm speedway at around 3 years old.
Where will you be based/living for the 2014 season?
Workington
Who’s the best rider you’ve ever beaten?
Antonio Lindback, when racing for Belle Vue.
Which rider, or team, do you most want to beat in 2014?
All of them!
Any plans on how to celebrate heat wins this season?
Probably the usual wheelie.
What machinery will you be mounted on this season?
GM engines, JAWA frames, Scandic clutches (new for this year)
What will you say when a Glasgow fan tells you “Mon big man, gie it sum wellie”?
No morries mate!