Ipswich Witches teenage flyer Cameron Heeps flew home to Australia last night promising Suffolk fans more in 2014 should he, as expected, return to Foxhall Stadium in March.
Ipswich Witches teenage flyer Cameron Heeps flew home to Australia last night promising Suffolk fans more in 2014 should he – as expected – return to Foxhall Stadium in March.
Heeps was the major recipient of awards at the end-of-season presentation night, picking up three, including the prestigious ‘Rider of the Year’ gong, as well as ‘Most Improved Rider’.
And, as the 18-year-old reflected on a fine season where his average lifted by more than two points, he had a message for Witches fans.
“I’ll be happy to be back next year and I’m looking for another good season,” he said.
“I want more of the same next year, I’ve enjoyed it all so much. And I want to thank the fans for their support, we just couldn’t do it without them.”
Heeps was the star rider in a solid 2013 season for the ‘Sackers’ Witches.
Both he and fellow Aussie, Rohan Tungate, flew out of England last night, Tungate heading for Sydney, Heeps for Perth.
“It will be nice to see the family again,” Heeps added.
“I do miss them when I’m in England, although I’m well looked after by Chris and Julie (Louis).”
Down Under, Heeps hopes to pick up work at a local hospital, helping people with directions in and around the hospital, as he continues to recuperate from the operation he had on his wrist last month.
Whatever league the Witches enter in 2014 – a decision not likely until the middle of the month after the British Speedway Promoters’ AGM – Heeps is likely to be the first name in the Witches 1-7.
Ben Barker, however, could have ridden his last meeting for the Witches.
Although director of speedway Chris Louis was saying nothing on the subject last night, it is known there has been a general disappointment within the club and among some fans regarding Barker’s non-appearance at both the 16-Lapper and end-of-season presentation night.
Next season’s league set-up is heavily dependant on whether Sky continue their coverage of the sport. If they do, there is likely to be little change to the Elite and Premier League make-up.
However, should Sky pull out, there could be big changes in the league structures and the Witches could be involved in those changes.
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