Colts name 2022 line-up

Belle Vue is delighted to confirm their full 2022 Belle Vue Colts team following the successful conclusion of the National Development League AGM.

Four members of the 2021 bronze-winning side, Jack Smith, Jack Parkinson-Blackburn, Harry and Sam McGurk, are all returning to the National Speedway Stadium next year. 

And no less than three new faces will make their Belle Vue debut, with former Newcastle and Armadale rider Archie Freeman and ex-Eastbourne racer Nathan Ablitt joining the club. 

For their final member, the Colts will hand Freddie Hodder his full NDL debut after the youngster’s impressive run as a staple of the Young Lions Speedway initiative.  

Back at the helm for the new year are long-serving team managers Steve Williams and Graham Goodwin, who are delighted with the results of their fervent team building. 

Williams said: “We’re really happy to see four of the lads from last year back in the side. These guys are the basis of why we have the Colts team; for youth development. 

“The McGurk brothers can be proud of their achievements last year, as can Jack and JPB and we’re delighted they have agreed to return for 2022. 

“Nathan and Archie are two lads we’ve had our eye on for a few years now and to see them both so enthusiastic about grabbing this opportunity is very pleasing. 

“They are both very talented and I’m sure they will fit in nicely to the dynamic of the group we have put together, and I’m confident they will flourish. 

“Freddie Hodder is a very exciting prospect for us. He’s a motocross convert who made his debut in the British Youth Championships last year. 

“It was through this, and some one-to-one time with Mark Lemon through The Belle Vue Experience, that he came onto our radar and we felt he deserved this chance.

“Overall we are delighted with the team we have assembled, and would to place on record our thanks to all of our outgoing riders from 2021 for all their efforts and hard work.” 

Stay tuned to the club’s official website and social media channels as we continue to ramp up the excitement for 2022 with further Aces announcements and updates in due course.

Words: Hayley Bromley

Images: Ian Charles