SPEEDWAY: Young Charlie realises his dream (From Swindon Advertiser)

SPEEDWAY: Young Charlie realises his dream

9:50am Monday 23rd June 2008 in Sport

CRICKLADE youngster Charlie Saunders has signed a dream deal with Swindon Speedway.

The talented 17-year-old becomes a Swindon asset and will compete in academy meetings for the Swindon Sprockets throughout the course of the summer while also concentrating on his grass track commitments.

Saunders enjoyed a productive first season on the 500cc grass track scene, with several victories and podium finishes, including third place in the British Under 21 Grass Track Championships.

Saunders is the latest exciting talent to agree a deal, with the Australian Sedgman brothers, Ryan and Justin putting pen to paper last week and Ben Reade also due to race in the academy side in the coming weeks.

Swindon manager Alun Rossiter said: "Here we have a young, talented local rider who the club really believe in.

"It's clear for everyone to see that Charlie has made encouraging progress in recent practice sessions and the club are looking forward to monitoring his development.

"His grass track results have been outstanding and have clearly provided Charlie with a sound footing in speedway.

"2008 will be a season of learning for Charlie in terms of speedway racing and all we just want him to enjoy his racing. I urge supporters to get behind him, it would be great to see such a local rider become part of our future."