The Monarch Oxford Cheetahs started their Cab Direct Championship campaign in emphatic style on Wednesday night when beating Redcar Bears 52-38 at Oxford Stadium.
Riding without Lewis Kerr, who remains side-lined after picking up concussion a week ago, the Cheetahs were once again led by top pair Sam Masters (10+3) and Scott Nicholls (13).
But there were star performers across Peter Schroeck’s side. Cameron Heeps rounded off his night with back-to-back race wins, Jordan Jenkins returned with a paid double figure haul and guest Leon Flint chipped in with 6.
Rider of the Night went to Devon-based Henry Atkins, though. The British youngster raced to his first victory as a Cheetahs rider in a breath-taking heat 14 which played a major role in Cheetahs winning on the night by 14 points.
Luke Killeen was among the points too – scoring 3+2 from his four rides.
Team Manager Peter Schroeck said: “This was a big win for us. We wanted to start the league on a positive note and the boys did just that.
“Scott and Sam led by example again. But our younger lads have really stepped up to the mark in recent weeks.
“Jordan and Henry’s passion after winning heat 14 was great to see. They’re two young, determined, lads who are so passionate about their racing and for them to team up together and bring home a maximum was the highlight of the night.
“We’ve got a decent lead to defend for the aggregate point when we travel up to Redcar later in the season which will determine the teams that make the play-offs and those that don’t.
“A big thank you to our supporters for turning out in force again. It doesn’t go unnoticed and there’s a real buzz in the Cheetahs camp right now which I’m delighted about.”
The Monarch Cheetahs are next in action on Wednesday, May 17, when hosting Plymouth Gladiators in the home leg of the BSN Series.
Focus switches to the National League at Oxford Stadium next Wednesday, May 10, when Oxford Chargers host Leicester Lion Cubs in their opening meeting of the season. Tickets are on sale now by clicking here. ALL U16s go FREE!
RESULTS:
Monarch Cheetahs 52-38 Redcar Bears, Cab Direct Championship.
Glasgow Tigers P-P Monarch Cheetahs, Cab Direct Championship.
FIXTURES:
WSRA Chargers powered by SD Timmo vs Leicester Lion Cubs – 10/05/23, National League @ Oxford Stadium.
Belle Vue Colts vs WSRA Chargers powered by SD Timmo – 12/05/23, National League @ National Speedway Stadium.
