Speedway’s ‘Greatest Showman’ at Arlington

The man dubbed speedway’s ‘greatest showman’ – Danny Ayres – will take to the shale at Arlington Stadium on Saturday (June 22).

He’s been given the title by the Speedway Star magazine in recognition of his spectacular racing and range of on-track emotions.

As a race-winner, Danny will stand on his bike, pumping his fist, waving and bowing to the crowd as he takes a lap of honour.

When he loses, a whole different set of feelings come to the fore, worthy of an actor in a Shakespeare tragedy.

His racing style is forceful, thrilling and he’s a man you cannot take your eyes off for a second.

Expect the unexpected when Danny is on track.

Danny Ayres

He comes to Sussex with the Scunthorpe Scorpions who are suffering a run of injuries and bring in guests Broc Nicol and Richard Andrews, as well as using rider replacement for Jake Allen.

And if Danny Ayres is a great showman, then the returning former Eagle and still a club asset, Richard Andrews, is a very close contender to the crown.

He is probably the most popular National League rider at the moment with his outstanding form, making him first choice as a guest when clubs have a gap to plug.

He featured in perhaps the “moment of the National League season so far” when, having broken bones in his foot at home track Plymouth, he declined a stretcher ride for a lap of the track in a wheelbarrow – waving to the crowd whilst taking gas and air.

Richard during his time with the Eagles

Eastbourne joint team manager, Will Pottinger, said: “Scunthorpe are missing three of their regular team so we need to try and take advantage of that and get another league win. 

“Continuing our good home form is key to maintaining a our hopes of qualifying for the end of season play offs. 

“Danny Ayres is Mr Entertainment and always puts on a great show. 

“I’m sure that the Eastbourne fans are looking forward to welcoming him to Arlington on Saturday!”

The match promises to be a special night at Arlington.

Admission prices have been cut by a pound as a thank you to the loyal fans who have flocked

back to watch the club upon its return to professional speedway.

There will also be a collection for one of the Eagles’ nominated charities for 2019, Macmillan Cancer Support.

Teams:

Eastbourne:

Richard Lawson Ben Morley, Kyle Newman, Lewi Kerr, Edward Kennett, Alfie Bowtell, Georgie Wood.

Scunthorpe:

Josh Auty, rider replacement for Jake Allen, Danny Ayres, Stefan Nielsen, Broc Nicol, Richard Andrews, Ryan Kinsley.

Image credits: Danny Ayres: Ian Rispin, Richard Andrews: Mike Hinves Main image: Tiffani Graveling