OXFORD Cheetahs have completed their third signing ahead of the return of speedway to the city next year.
Three-time Western Australia State champion Cameron Heeps joins club captain Scott Nicholls and compatriot Troy Batchelor in making the switch from Kent Kings.
Heeps will celebrate his 10th season of full-time racing in the UK while with the Cheetahs.
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He said: “Oxford was my number one choice when I heard the club was returning under Jamie [Courtney, Oxford Speedway promoter] and I am thrilled to be part of the club’s return.
“I wasn’t even a teenager when the Cheetahs last raced, but I still understand the club’s history and what speedway means to the people of Oxford.
“Jamie and I developed a good friendship during lockdown, and we quickly reached an agreement once the club’s return had been confirmed.
“He’s putting together a squad capable of challenging for top honours and I’m excited to be involved.
“Scott and Troy are both experienced riders who I have raced with before and they know how to win a championship.
“I can’t wait to get started and meet our fans in the spring.”
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Adjustments to Oxford Stadium are being made, including to the racing surface, with Heeps hopeful it will suit his riding style.
He said: “I’m a racer so to learn the track is being widened slightly is great news.
“Scott believes the track will suit how I ride the bike and I know the stadium’s track team is working hard to deliver the best possible racing surface.
“British speedway has been very good to me since I first raced in 2011.
“It’s exciting to hear Jamie’s plans to develop a new generation of speedway riders and fans through his work at Oxford.
“I owe a lot to the sport and to be able to engage with supporters old and new will be a great experience for me.”
Heeps has also signed on with Ipswich Witches in the Premiership.
The 26-year-old, signed by the Witches on his 16th birthday, will begin his ninth season at the club.
Speedway riders can race for two sides, referred to as doubling up.
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