ISLE OF Wight Speedway's management are gearing up for an exciting night of action when the cream of Britain’s youth riders from across the Solent battle it out in the first semi-final of the British U21 Individual Championship at Smallbrook Stadium, Ashey, this evening (Tuesday).

There will be 12 young speedway talents aiming for a top three finish to qualify for the grand final — joining ten seeded riders — in Berwick, Scotland, at the end of the month.

The Isle of Wight Wightlink Warriors will have two representatives — Connor King and Chad Wirtzfeld — hoping to make the most of their knowledge and familiarity with the big Smallbrook track, together with the advantage of home support.

They will, however, be facing stiff competition from Championship League riders Ryan Kinsley, Luke Ruddick and Anders Rowe, who will be gunning for outright qualification on the night.

The line up in draw order is: Nathan Ablitt (Kent), Luke Ruddick (Edinburgh/Leicester), Ryan Kinsley (Scunthorpe), Chad Wirtzfeld (Isle of Wight), Ben Woodhull (Belle Vue), Jamie Bursill (Plymouth), Connor King (Isle of Wight), Joe Alcock (Stoke), Jordan Palin (Belle Vue), Alex Spooner (Kent), Jordan Jenkins (Kent) and Anders Rowe (Somerset/Kent), with James Laker (Weymouth) the reserve rider.   

Warriors co-promoter Barry Bishop is expecting a close and unpredictable meeting.

“We have been very honoured by the speedway authorities trusting us to host this meeting," said Bishop.

"Our volunteers and off-track team will be working flat out to present our club in the best possible light and to show everyone what a great occasion we deliver each and every week.

"On the track, we are sure to see a tense struggle for those precious top three positions.

"There is certain to be some uncompromising action and every heat is likely to contain a young gun looking to cause an upset. This truly is a meeting not to be missed.

"We have received marvellous support from Wightlink with the organisation for this meeting."

Season ticket holders for any British speedway track visiting the Island will have free entry as Isle of Wight Speedway celebrates the continued development of youth speedway in this country.

As always, the gates will open at 5.30pm  with tapes up at 7pm.