Southend-born racer Ben Morley will once again be at number one for the Kent Kings as they roar into NORA action in 2024.
One of the original septet that graced the shale in the club’s inaugural season at Central Park back in 2013, Morley went on to become the Kings’ record points scorer in two spells: between 2013 and 2015 in the National League and then in the final season, this time in the second tier, in 2021.
Whilst 2024 signals a new beginning for the Kings, Ben is looking forward to leading from the front for the Garden of England side into this new-look future and at the same time appreciates how he has become a fan favourite with the Kentish public.
Speaking on his time with the Kings Morley said,
“When I first joined in 2013, it was a fresh new start and I have had some amazing times at Central Park with great memories and friends coming out of there and now at Iwade.”
Iwade is now also a familiar set-up for Morley having spent the past two seasons there with the Kent Royals and, while looking forward to linking up alongside a largely familiar set of teammates, he reflects on his career on the south side of the QE2 Bridge,
“I’ve always loved racing for Kent, especially now with it being my most local track. And I’m looking forward to another year riding at Iwade and in the Kings’ race jacket which means so much to me.
“With matches in the fixtures announced so far against three of my old clubs, Isle of Wight, Rye House and the Hammers it’s going to be an exciting season.”
For a rider high up in the all-time rankings for points scoring in Speedway’s third tier and twice the Divisional Riders’ Champion there’s obviously an element of change in the racing he’ll be involved in but the recently-turned 30-year-old is typically laid back about the difference this makes,
“It’s going to be a bit different being in the NORA League, but as long as I can race my bike, I’m happy. Hopefully, we have a good season with plenty of entertainment and no injuries.”
Morley and Co. will head into action in just four weeks’ time (Sunday April 14th) when Kent take on old local rivals Eastbourne at Iwade with a 2pm start time.
And new promoter Steve Ribbons makes a call for riders interested in joining up with the NORA revolution,
“We have slots available for riders to take place in our full second halves – starting on the 14th. Anyone interested should contact me via our web-site www. kent-speedway.co.uk or call our General Manager Derek Barclay on 07969 578772.
“Meanwhile a reminder that our Press & Practice event is on Sunday 24th. March with a 11am start time.”
Words and Feature Image by Kent Speedway
