US Style Handicap Racing Returns To Smallbrook Stadium

The annual Mark Cooper Truly Independent event is a real crowd pleaser because it is designed to encourage overtaking by using the rider grading system.

On track, higher graded riders are handicapped either 15 or 30m behind the start line where the lowest grade riders start from.

The format is not only designed to encourage overtaking but it also enables riders who perhaps have never come out of bend 2 in the lead the opportunity to lead a race and pick where they want to ride and defend their position. 

The action kicks off on track at 6.15pm with Junior racing and the main event is from 7.00pm.

Confirmed riders so far include local riders Morgan Williams and Danno Verge, fans favourite Jamie Sealey, new Warriors signing Jacob Clouting along with former GB U21 Champion and SGP rider Edward Kennett, twice National League Riders Champion Ben Morley, exciting Aussie, Dayle Wood and exciting young British prospect, Freddy Hodder.

Wightlink Warriors Team Manager Steve Piper said:

“This meeting is always a classic as it gives riders the chance to lead and our normal “heat leaders” have to do the chasing from the get go.

"In recent years it has provided over 50 passes during the meeting, and some thrilling action.

"Whoever comes out on top will have had to have worked for this prize, whether its defending in front or working their way forward from the back.

"There is a great meeting ahead of us.”

Gates open at 5.15pm.