Controversial End to Cockle's Season
Posted 31/10/04

James Cockle's 2004 speedway season came to a controversial end this evening in the second leg of the CL KO Cup final at Mildenhall.

All riders expressed concern at the state of the Mildenhall track. This appeared to be backed up by a crash in the opening heat and riders inability to broadside on the circuit.

Both teams were then asked to send riders out in pairs to have practice laps which resulted in a request for remedial work on the track followed by more practice laps.

A further 3 heats were then played out with riders basically playing follow my leader.

The riders made further representation to the referee who ordered them to ride or be fined. With concerns for their safety the Boston riders, led by Hollingworth, refused to ride any further and the meeting continued with only Mildenhall appearing in the remaining heats.

An unsatisfactory way to end a season but rider safety should not be compromised.