Former British Champion and Grand Prix regular Craig Cook has signed for Oxford Spires on a 28-day agreement to cover for the absent Lewis Kerr, who is sidelined with an ankle injury.
The 36-year-old will make his club debut on Thursday when Spires travel to Sheffield for their rearranged ROWE Motor Oil Premiership fixture against the Tigers.
Cook has made a flying start to his 2024 campaign, scoring 41 points from only 16 rides for Championship club Workington. And the 2017 British Champion said he was feeling in great condition on and off the bike ahead of his first Spires ride.
“I’m really grateful for this opportunity and thank Peter (Schroeck) and the Oxford management for making the call,” said Cook. “I’ve put a lot of effort into my preparation for 2024, and so far the results have been pleasing.
“Oxford has been a real success story since the club reopened two years ago, so to be part of the operation in the coming months is exciting for me and I’m looking forward to Thursday’s trip to Sheffield.
“We have some big meetings coming up in May and as a group we’re determined to continue our positive start to the season and strengthen our position inside the play-off frame.”
Cook will be eligible for all five of Spires’ Premiership fixtures in May. Following Thursday’s trip to Sheffield, the club hosts Leicester on Bank Holiday Monday (May 6) with a visit to the National Speedway Stadium scheduled the following week (May 13).
Aces return to OX4 on May 23 before Spires take on Leicester at Beaumont Park four days later.
Team Manager Peter Schroeck added: “Craig is all class and has a strong track record since making the switch from Motocross 16 years ago.
“His commitment during the winter is clear to see with a number of strong performances in the Championship, so we’re really pleased to have him onboard.”
Oxford Spires return to Oxford Stadium on Monday, May 6, in the ROWE Motor Oil Premiership against Leicester Lions. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased by clicking here.
Words by Oxford Speedway – Image courtesy of Dave Payne
