2006
Glasgow Scoring Record
Kauko was originally a target for Glasgow when he came to
Britain in 2002 but they were beaten in the race for his
signature by Workington, who has ridden with until now.
When it became clear that Kauko would be a victim of the
averages at Workington this season, Glasgow moved quickly
to secure him on loan as their third averaged rider.
He is a popular rider who has three Finish U21 titles and
a Finnish pairs title to his credit and has been a solid
rider for Workington in his time at Derwent Park.
Kauko is the type of rider who rides smoothly and intelligently,
always looking very much in control. He can make up for
being slightly slower than an opponent by fast gating and
clever tactical riding as was shown when he became the first
rider to beat Shane Parker in a league meeting at Ashfield.
He is also quick thinking, something new team mate James
Cockle is grateful for as Kauko undoubtedly saved him more
serious injury by his actions when James fell in front of
him during the meeting between Glasgow and Workington last
March.
Like Shane, he suffered a broken collar bone last season
after an innocent looking fall in the final heat at Kings
Lynn and missed two months. On his return he quickly took
up where he left off however, so much so that Swindon called
him up for his Elite League debut at Wolves in September.
In addition to the UK, Kauko also rides in Sweden and for
2006 is signed up for the Griparna Nykoeping squad in the
Allsvenskan.
If he can avoid the bad luck that has seen him pick up
a few injuries over the past few seasons Kauko should be
a very shrewd signing for Glasgow in 2006.
