Cockle Lands Fine and Possible Ban
Posted 29/11/04

The start date of James Cockle's 2005 season seems to be in doubt following the news that punishments have been given out following Boston's KO Cup fiasco with Mildenhall at the end of last season.

The meeting descended into farce when Boston withdrew over concerns for safety as the track appeared to be unsuitable for racing (see here for original comment). This opinion was backed up a week later in the Speedway Star by no less than former World Champion Michael Lee who was very vocal in his condemnation of the track that day.

Although still to be officially announced and confirmed, it is understood that James, in common with four other riders, has been handed a £250 fine and 4 match suspension, suspended for 12 months.

However, James is still currently riding under the shadow of another 4 match ban, suspended 15 months, which was handed out for his part in a fracas at Wimbledon last year (see seperate story here).

It seems unclear exactly what this will mean for the young Londoner as no specific comment has been made as yet. An official comment on the punishments handed out is expected from the BSPA later this week. It is thought, however, that should the punishment be ratified James will be banned for 4 meetings as a result of the suspended sentence from the Wimbledon event and carry the further four meetings suspended for 1 year.

Exactly what meetings will be effected by this suspension remains to be clarified and if James also rides Conference level next season - which he is still eligible to do - it may be that Conferencel League meetings will dilute the effect for the Tigers.

Glasgow will no doubt be seeking clarification as soon as possible.