Isle of Wight Wizards Cast a Spell with Stunning Speedway Win
The Isle of Wight ‘Wightlink’ Wizards kicked off their historic debut season in the Southern Development League (SDL) with a cracking away win over Weymouth – racing on Eastbourne’s tricky Arlington track. The Wizards, fresh from My First Skid school, conjured up a magic performance to trounce the nomadic Wildcats 22-13.
New Kids on the Track Show Real Grit
SDL matches run over six heats with four riders each, every man taking three runs. The Wizards, all local lads, adapted brilliantly to the tight corners of Arlington – a stark contrast to their home track at Smallbrook, the largest in the UK. Shanklin’s James Luckman proudly wore the number two jacket.
Star Performers Propel Wizards to Victory
- Jamie Sealey was flawless, bagging three heat wins.
- Vice-captain Ben Ilsley fought hard to score two wins and bonus points.
- Despite a first-race retirement for Luckman and a nasty flip by Chris Watts in heat two, the Wizards held strong.
Joint team manager Sid Sheldrick was bursting with pride after the match. “I’m thrilled with that,” he said. “We had a good chat before the meeting, shared experiences, and the boys listened. Thanks to the Warriors riders who helped with mechanical problems. Now we can’t wait for our next meeting at Plymouth.”
Scoreline and Riders’ Points
- Wildcats: Luke Barnes 5, James Jessop 1+1, Jacob Fellows 3, Bailey Fellows 4
- Wizards: Jamie Sealey 9, James Luckman 2, Chris Watts 4+1, Ben Ilsley 7+1
