Excellent Line Up Complete

NEWS Thursday 23rd March 2017, 10:00am

by Graham Muncie

  Edinburgh Monarchs

We can now announce the final two riders left to complete the field for this year’s Harrisons Scottish Open Championship and with no offence to anyone announced so far these names may elicit the biggest response.

First up returning to Armadale for one night only will be a member of the 2014 and 2015 League winning Monarchs - it's Justin Sedgmen!

Sedgy was a legend during his two year stay with the Monarchs not just for his on track prowess, where he coupled with Craig Cook for probably the most successful opening pairing we have ever had, but also for his off track demeanour.

A key man in the pits and also on the social side of the team, many will have fond memories of Justin marching around the Armadale bar with the big drum or video calling back to his parents from on top of a table with a backing of fans singing We Are The Champions after our two league wins.

Justin has moved from parent club Swindon to Belle Vue this year in what is a ex-Monarch laden line-up and I’m sure the fans in Manchester will take to Justin in the same way we in Edinburgh did.

Justin has one previous Open appearance to his name having finished on 10 points in 2014 as part of his debut season with the Monarchs.

With the names announced so far all highly competitive there will be no shortage of potential winners but if Justin puts it all together he will be favourite on the night in the eyes of many.

Last but certainly not least to join the field - it’s our very own captain fantastic Sam Masters!

We have all loved watching Sam turn into one of the top men in the second tier of British speedway while at the same time making a name for himself on the world stage with multiple GP and World Cup appearances alongside his top tier, Polish and Danish commitments. Sam will be one of the busiest men in the sport this year and he will be looking to start his Armadale season in fine style.

Sam is of course reigning Open champion having clinched victory over Craig Cook in a hard fought final back in 2014 in what was his only appearance so far and if he continues his nigh on unbeatable form round his home circuit then no one will be surprised if he retains his title.

Both Sam and Justin’s rider sponsorship packages have been snapped up however heat sponsorship packages remain. This includes recognition as a heat sponsor, admission for two to the Open, two match magazines, a DVD of the Championship and hospitality for two in the Champions Lounge on the evening - all for just £120. Follow the link below to book this package now!

So the field is now complete on what is the most competitive looking Open in years and we will hold the draw for riding order at tonight’s Season Launch Live event at the Cairn Hotel in Bathgate. Tickets are still available for this with doors opening at 7pm for a 7.30pm start.

Open tickets are on sale now with sponsorship packages also available details of all can be found here for what is sure to be a hotly contested night of racing to raise the curtain on our 21st season at Armadale.