Oxford Speedway Managing Director Jamie Courtney has issued a heartfelt message to supporters, thanking them for their backing whilst stressing the importance of continued support as the club looks to build on its remarkable revival.
Courtney reflected on how far the club has come since speedway returned to Oxford, whilst also acknowledging the challenges that remain behind the scenes in running a modern speedway club.
One key announcement from the club is the introduction of a match-night box office from this Wednesday, allowing supporters to purchase tickets by cash or card on race nights after feedback from fans.
The full statement from Jamie Courtney is below:
Words from Jamie Courtney
A touch of reality — after every revolution comes a moment for evolution.
Just over five years ago, the stadium at Cowley was a shell of its former self. Derelict, crumbling, and slowly being reclaimed by weeds. Its future looked bleak, despite the determination of many who refused to let it become just another housing estate.
Fast-forward to today and we have a vibrant, modern stadium full of life. A place where riders young and old chase their dreams, where families come together, and where the greatest show on shale once again belongs to Oxford.
From mascots taking their first steps on their journey, to rising talents like Jody Scott, Luke Killeen and Mitch McDairmid, right through to international riders such as Sam Masters, the BetGoodwin Stadium is alive again.
But the loss of greyhound racing, and the turbulence that followed earlier this year, reminded us all that nothing should ever be taken for granted.
Thanks to the investment and commitment of Mike Austin and Spencer Timmo, we’ve been able to put Oxford Speedway on firmer ground and focus on securing its long-term future. But I want to be honest about something: keeping this club alive and moving forward takes an enormous amount of work behind the scenes by a small army of people.
The reality of running a speedway club is long days, late nights, and a huge personal and financial commitment. But I do it because I believe in this club, in this city, and because I believe in the people who support it.
Everyone has a part to play in our future here at Oxford. Our job as management is to build competitive, entertaining teams; prepare a circuit that brings out the best in our riders; deliver a slick, professional show that gives supporters real value for their hard-earned money; and continue raising the standard of what we offer.
And because we’ve listened to you, we’re making an important change.
Starting this Wednesday, we’re introducing a match-night box office at the stadium, where supporters will be able to purchase tickets by cash or card. Many of you told us that the lack of an on-the-night payment option has been a barrier, and we want to remove that barrier completely. We hope this comes as welcome news. Full details on how the box office will operate will be shared in the coming days, ready for this Wednesday’s meeting.
But above everything else, I want to say this clearly: thank you. To every supporter who stands by us, week in and week out. To every sponsor who believes in what we’re building. Your encouragement, your passion, your loyalty, it genuinely keeps this club alive. When things get tough, it’s your positive voices, your helpful messages, and your presence on the terraces that remind us why we fight so hard for Oxford Speedway. We are truly grateful for every bit of support you give us.
You, the fans, are the heartbeat of this club. Without you, professional sport simply cannot exist.
As the season heats up, with the Cheetahs pushing for the play-offs and the Chargers defending their National League title, make sure you don’t miss a moment — and just as importantly, spread the word across the city and beyond.
Wednesday nights were made for speedway.
Oxford Speedway needs you!
Feature Image courtesy of Oxford Speedway – Steve Edmunds
