Buxton’s long-awaited return to British Speedway in the WSRA National League for 2026 has taken a major step forward with the confirmation of their first two signings – Jack Smith and Alfie Bowtell.
The DUCTAIR Buxton Bulls have named 27-year-old Jack Smith as their first recruit and club captain for their comeback season. Smith, who will also be back with Berwick in 2026, brings valuable experience and leadership to the Derbyshire outfit.
A former Belle Vue racer, Smith began his senior career with Birmingham in 2016, where he was part of the National Trophy and National League Championship-winning side. A move to Belle Vue followed in 2017, where he enjoyed further success, lifting the Knockout Cup with the Aces and winning league honours with the Colts.
Smith admitted he was immediately keen to be involved when news of Buxton’s return emerged.
“When I heard Buxton was coming back, I was interested in being part of it. I don’t live far away, so despite being at Berwick on a Saturday night, travelling home on a Sunday is not too bad.
“It’s an honour to be asked to captain the DUCTAIR Bulls, and I’m sure we will put together a good side to challenge for honours. The work the volunteers have been doing is quite amazing, and fans will be pleasantly surprised by how the place looks. The stands on the home straight look great and they’re also building a disabled and wheelchair area.
“I’m looking forward to hearing who else we’ll have in the side as we aim to be right up there challenging for the title.”
Promoter Laurence Rogers was delighted to secure Smith’s services – and to hand him the captaincy.
“Jack has impressed me with his enthusiasm for riding for us, and we had no hesitation in offering him the role of captain. He wants success, and that fits perfectly with our aims. That’s one down and six more to sort and announce.”
The Bulls quickly followed up Smith’s signing by announcing Alfie Bowtell as their second recruit for 2026, strengthening their top end as speedway returns to the picturesque Derbyshire hills.
Bowtell, who was surprisingly left without a Championship team spot, has enjoyed several strong seasons with Plymouth and brings proven quality to the National Development League newcomers. The Essex-based rider was quick to agree terms when approached.
“It didn’t take me long to agree to join the Bulls when Laurence messaged me. I know him well and rode for him at Birmingham in 2023.
“I know he and the volunteers have been working non-stop all winter at Buxton, and they have great plans for the club. I’m really happy to be part of that. Jack and I will be a strong spearhead.”
Rogers believes the pairing of Smith and Bowtell gives Buxton an excellent platform to build on ahead of their return season.
“Alfie is a great team man and a rider who always gives his full commitment. He was our Rider of the Year at Birmingham in 2023, and together with Jack, they give us two strong heat leaders. We’ve got other signings in the pipeline that will give us a solid and competitive side.”
With their first two signings in place, optimism is already growing around Buxton as preparations continue for their eagerly anticipated return to British Speedway in 2026.
Images courtesy of Buxton Speedway
