TheWellBehavedWorrall

What exactly do you mean by ”think things through for the longer-term”? What is there to be thought through that will benefit us long-term? This isn’t quantum physics, Ian. It’s planning the same season’s meetings, but with less clubs due to aforementioned decline, since 1929. Every close season represents an opportunity for the BSPL to reset and rebuild. Yet, at arguably the most challenging period in the UK sports’ history, we’ve encountered a ridiculously delayed fixture list and the exciting, groundbreaking outcome from the annual AGM that.. wait for it… the side who scored less in qualifying will get first gate pick in the Championship Pairs.

I’m not stressed, Ian. I just don’t think we should normalise low standards. British speedway repeatedly forces its fans to accept the bare minimum as success. That mindset is contributing to the slow death of the sport we love. I’ve raised valid points around logistics, accommodation, hospitality, governance, etc. and those points don’t disappear because the inept BSPL have issued the fixtures over a month later than last season, despite the sport’s blatant decline.

The hospitality boxes on the third and fourth bends at Ashfield. It’s a great set-up. It’s become a bit of a tradition between myself, friends, family and even colleagues on the odd occasion.

The fixtures are no longer just a bit late; they’re actively damaging. This lack of organisation impacts so many things; fans (including my own) ability to plan travel and book accommodation. BSN’s ability to market and sell, plus plan logistics, for both season passes and meeting coverage. Sponsors ability to plan corporate attendances and subsequently clubs can’t forecast hospitality planning. The impact this has on cash flow will be huge. I’ve normally booked one or two boxes by now, but I can’t because there’s no fixtures and as a result, Glasgow (or any other club) sees no income stream. BSN’s statement a few weeks ago gave me second hand embarrassment for the BSPL. Our sport will die under the leadership of these stakeholders who are not fit for purpose.

@IanBrannan are you able to disclose any information in terms of what the imbeciles at the BSPL are advising about this season’s fixtures? It must be a nightmare for BSN; unable to promote or sell literally the only positive product associated with what has become a shambles of a sport in this country. Add to that the fact fans can’t plan travel and accommodation while riders committed to more organised leagues will inevitably encounter availability issues with their UK clubs. The AGM was almost a month ago. They are utterly inept at their job. It’s embarrassing.

40 days until the first tapes rise (Klindt‘s testimonial) and the competitive fixtures remain unknown. The circus continues.

Can’t praise BSN enough; they’re almost single-handedly keeping the sport in the UK visible and accessible. I hadn’t attended Ashfield for many years until I heard about BSN and tuned in. Two years later, I’m a track regular again; all because of BSN. As such, I cannot get on-board with any criticism of them. I’ve been a season pass holder for two years now and I think they’re adapting to each venue and improving the product every year. I don’t think you can ask for any more. They’re good people too. They’re authentic. I think Ian and Greg (Brennan and Blair, if I recall) are great.

In addition to the knock-on delay this is causing BSN with their season passes, doesn’t this delay increase the risk of logistical challenges with rider availability? I know Poland have released their fixtures, but have Sweden, Denmark, etc.? Disappointed I started this topic in December. Naive, blind optimism.

Credit to BSN for wanting to keep their customers informed. If the BSPL had any credibility, I’d say the lack of transparency and information was disappointing, but they’re not, so it isn’t.

Sorry, what do you mean mate? Received by who? The BSPA from the clubs?

Is it? I wasn’t sure. From searching, last season’s was 9th of January for the Championship and I think the Premiership was even earlier, but assume the AGM took place earlier last year.

Any indication as to when these might be released?

Big loss to Berwick and the Championship. I saw Drew at Shielfield last season against Glasgow and it was one of the strongest individual performances I’ve witnessed by an opposing rider. If memory serves me right, he was unbeaten by a visiting rider, albeit one engine failure/mechanical retirement.

Delighted to see Cook back this season. I’ve been critical of some instances involving him in the past, but a British speedway without Craig Cook is a sadder, less entertaining and lower in quality place. Really strong side being built at Northside.