TRACK TALK: We're finally in top gear! (From Swindon Advertiser)

TRACK TALK: We're finally in top gear!

10:20am Saturday 25th April 2009 in Track Side

SWINDON finally hit top gear this week as successive victories against Peterborough and Coventry saw the Robins move into a share of the lead in the early Elite League standings.

Monday night at the Abbey saw the Sky Sports cameras in town for the first time this season.

A bumper crowd enjoyed the April sunshine, some great racing on the track, and most importantly a convincing 53-40 home win.

Ryan Fisher and Troy Batchelor both scored paid 10, but not for the first time it was Leigh Adams taking the plaudits after the meeting. He carded four victories on the way to scoring 14 points, the third of which saw him become the first rider in history to score 10,000 points in British speedway.

What a remarkable testament to his consistency, determination and track craft over the 21 seasons.

Thursday night in the Midlands saw the momentum build as Swindon gained a superb victory at their perennial rivals Coventry.

The win took Robins joint top of the table but only after surviving a remarkable fight back from Coventry as they clawed back a 10-point deficit to set up a thrilling climax.

With all the good work seemingly about to go up in smoke, Simon Stead and Adams saved the day with a breathtaking 5-1 over the home team in the decider. Simon burst clear from the tapes and Leigh sped under Rory Schlein to join him up front and seal the victory. The result was particularly sweet for Simon who rode for Coventry last season.

Next up at the Abbey we welcome Belle Vue on Thursday and former Swindon riders Charlie Gjedde, Krzystof Kasprzak and James Wright while Cory Gathercole will replace Ryan Fisher, who is racing for Edinburgh, at reserve.

And good luck to Adams tonight in the Czech GP - a victory there would be the perfect way to end the week.