The top 16 riders from throughout the country qualified for this final at the Sport Connexion arena in Coventry. Leading the challenge is Mark Boaler from Horspath in Oxford. Mark has 18 Finals to his name, winning in 2008, 2013, 2015 and 2023. His record in this competition is second to none and is the man to beat. Brothers Matt Hill (Champion in 2021 and 2022) and Ashley Hill (Silver medal 4 times) are undoubtably very hard to beat on their day and both will be there at the end. Chris Timms as been a finalist in 17 of the meetings, the first in 2006. He has various podiums but to land the ‘biggie’ he will have to be at the top of his game, will today be his day? Other podium finishers are Conner Tucker from Exeter who finished runner up in 2021, Ben Clarke from Ipswich was runner up in 2022 and Noah Woodhouse from Great Blakenham made his debut last year and finished in 2nd place. Zac Payne (Horspath) had appeared in 7 Open Finals and could be one to watch today. Will Jeffery (Horspath) makes his first appearance today and being the Bronze medallist in this years ‘outdoor’ World Championship should hold him in good stead. Jake White (Birmingham) makes his debut and has the pedigree to do well, as does younger brother of Noah Woodhouse, Luca Woodhouse (Great Blakenham). Leon Mower has made 4 open final since his debut in 2021, the same as youngster Torsten Jolly from the Great Blakenham Club. James Porter is the 4th member of the Ipswich Eagles Club in todays field, watch out for James!! Last but not least is double ‘Outdoor’ World Junior Champion, Kenzie Bennett from Poole CSC in Dorset. This kid is probably the best rising talent in the sport and will have a say in todays results if not end up on the top step himself. On with the action

6 Comments

  1. Great presentation – terrific event – Heat 17 was a real test of courage – why couldn't I find any mention of this magnificent event in the national press nor on sports news segments for the BBC? It's odd that such an exciting, fairly cheap and inclusive sport is so ignored by the media

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