Promotion Happy With AGM
(Posted 08/12/07)

Alan Dick confirmed last night that the Glasgow promotion were happy with the outcome of this years conference and felt it was a positive meeting highlighting the strength of the Premier League.

The main bullet points of what Alan mentioned are given below - obviously these are only our recollection of what was said.

• Points Limit
  Glasgow had lobbied for the points limit to be raised to 42 prior to the conference and although they weren't 100% successful they are very happy with the 41.5 limit
• Assessed Averages
  Another area Glasgow pushed was for the lowering of the assessed averages for young Australians to be reduced to 5 points and this was accepted. European riders without top league experience will come in on a 7 point average
• Increased League Size
  The promotion welcome the increased size of the league and the extra value for money it will give the fans who have season tickets. They feel that the increasing size shows the strength of the product.
• Financial Matters
  Without change, four Elite League clubs would have been in serious danger of going out of business. No Premier League club appeared to be in dire financial straights.
• EL/PL Points Difference
  By lowering the Elite League limit whilst increasing the Premier League limit it has brought the two leagues closer together although the money paid in the two leagues is still miles apart.
• Promotion and Relegation
  As we already knew it is decided by a play off between an Elite League Club and a Premier League club. The Team at the top of the Premier League will be crowned champions but then 1st will ride against 4th and 2nd v 3rd on a home and away basis with the winners from each competing home and away to decide on who will ride off against the Elite League club for the Elite League slot. No strengthening up of the Premier League team will be allowed so technically it will be extremely difficult for a PL side to be promoted. Its believed the play off meetings are driven by Sky and will be on a Monday night under floodlights, Glasgow would have to bring in temporary lighting if they were involved.
• Young Shield
  The Young Shield will still take place for teams finishing in 5th-12th in the league
• Season Start
  Because of all the extra meetings due to the increased number of Premier League clubs and the resultant fixtures that brings the season will start earlier this year. In Glasgow's case the season will start at Ashfield on 9th March. Midweek fixtures at home will be a necessity
• Shared Events
  The venues for the shared events see the PLRC return to Sheffield, Somerset retain the pairs the night before the GP and the Fours will be at Workington