Bint in Robins Academy bid (From Swindon Advertiser)

Bint in Robins Academy bid

9:39am Thursday 15th May 2008 in Sport

A FAIRFORD teenager is hoping to turn his dreams into reality by getting selected to ride for the Swindon Robins Academy next month.

Thirteen-year-old Chris Bint is currently in his third season competing in the Great Britain Under 15 Championship.

And as soon as the Farmors School pupil turns 14 in June he could be selected to race for the Robins Academy side, which would see him take to the track after the main meetings at Blunsdon.

Chris's dad Pat revealed that his son is a huge Robins fan and dreams of one day riding for the Elite League outfit, but knows he will have to work his way through the ranks and leagues to get there.

Pat said: "Opportunities for young British riders are very limited as in both the Elite and Premier League the majority of the riders are Scandinavian, Australian, Polish or American.

"So when the season ends in October and the plan is to attend training schools all over the country to improve his style and trackcraft.

"Chris's aim is to gain a place in a Conference League team when he turns 15 in June 2009."

Bint began riding speedway bikes at the age of eight, starting on a 90cc bike.

He has since progressed to a 125cc and at 11 got his 500cc licence.

He has already experienced riding at a number of tracks across the country, including Swindon, Lakeside, Reading, Workington and Newport.

And dad Pat is appealing for people to become sponsors so his son can continue to progress in speedway.

He said: "The big step made up to a 500cc bike is an expensive one, so any business or individual who would like to help Chris in his ambition to become a top speedway rider would be very welcome.

"Any sponsorship would be repaid by advertising on Chris's kevlars, van or website and we would be really grateful if people could help."

Anyone interested should call his dad Pat on 01285 711862 or 07711 444958, or email pat.bint07@yahoo.co.uk.