Little Gem Freeman’s revved up for big day of training
JUNIOR SPEEDWAY
TEENAGE speedway sensation Archie Freeman’s preocious talent has been recognised by his peers with a place at a top training workshop.
The Newcastle Gems youngster has secured a spot on the Speedway Grand Prix Academy workshop at Cardiff’s Principality Stadium.
Today he and nine other promising young riders aged 11 to 14 were being put through their paces at the workshop, run by SGP rights holder BSI Speedway in conjunction with Poultec Training.
The course covered all the core items such as fitness, nutrition and media relations as well as more traditional skills such as bike preparation and riding techniques.
It culminated with an hour of ontrack training on the British Grand Prix circuit under the instruction of former GB racer Oliver Allen. A Gems’ spokesman said: “It is a fantastic opportunity for Archie to learn all about what it takes to become a top speedway rider.
“The chance for him to ride at such an iconic venue like Cardiff is not only amazing, it can be really motivational.
“There can be few better training grounds than the Principality Stadium.
“Archie hopes to benefit from the experience of working with Oliver and the SGP Academy team as he looks to continue his progress in his chosen sport.”
Freeman earned his place after a string of impressive performances this year in the British Youth 150cc Championship.
The youngster won the first two rounds of the championship and was looking to consolidate that position in the third round at Glasgow’s Ashfield Stadium.
In the end he did more than consolidate - he increased his championship lead with another faultless performance, again confirming his position as one of the country’s hottest young prospects.
Another flawless maximum means Freeman has still to drop a point after three rounds.
He now leads the standings by 12 points with two rounds to go.
That victory means it would be a brave man who would bet against the Tynesider becoming British champion in the 150cc class at the tender age of 13.
The next round of the Championship is at the National Stadium, Belle Vue on Saturday, July 28 - a track Freeman knows well