Former World Cycle Speedway champion Ray Oliver made a shock return to racing this week – and he made up for lost time by sensationally winning his second race on the comeback trail.
The 49 year old donned the yellow and black Brandon Bees colours in Tuesday night’s Midland League division 2 clash with East Park at Brandon Road Playing Fields and stunned onlookers by racing to victory in heat 4.
The 1988 world champion, from Wyken in the city, showed his trademark electric starting ability by jetting from the gate in heat 2, only to tire and be pipped on the line.
Following his second ride win, Oliver then went on to post a remarkable 12 point score.
Oliver, who started racing at the now defunct Whitley club, joined his lifelong friend Dave Frith in Brandon`s 69-80 home defeat – their first home reverse of their comeback season.
Frith went on to top score with 16 points and he was well supported by fast improving 17 year old Matt Hambidge, who included some mature team riding in his 15 point haul. Overall, it was a fine showing in defeat by the Bees as East Park fielded several Midland League division one regulars.
Brandon Bees point scorers:
Will Jeffrey of Hosrpath (Oxford) took the champions medal with a 20 point maximum but home riders Sammi Marsh and Ollie Morris took silver and bronze.