Speedway
Smolinski joins Brummies

BIRMINGHAM Brummies have secured another major capture with the arrival of reigning German Speedway champion Martin Smolinski.

The signing is another statement of intent from the Selco Brummies as they prepare to challenge for a place in the Sky Sports Elite League play-off places.

Smolinski was flown into Birmingham from his Munich base especially to be introduced to Selco Brummies management, before being unveiled on Friday morning.

As well as being a three-time German Speedway champion, Smolinski also excels at other speedway related disciplines. He is the current European Grass Track champion and is also a leading exponent of Long Track racing in Europe.

Aged 27, Smolinski returns to British racing after a previous highly successful spell with Coventry Bees, which included winning the Sky Sports Elite League championship final in 2007.

Smolinski will slot into the important number two position for the Brummies. He will form a powerful opening combination with current Grand Prix ace Bjarne Pedersen.

Selco Brummies co-owner Alan Phillips, of BCTG, said: “We extend a very warm Birmingham welcome to Martin. Everything points to him resuming a successful British racing career.”

BRUMMIES have also announced a major new sponsorship deal with leading city motor dealers Toyota World Birmingham.

Based at Wingfoot Way, Erdington, Toyota World Birmingham join the Brummies as an official 2012 Team Sponsorship Partner.

Commercial Manager Joe McLaughlin made an approach late last year and Toyota World Birmingham Dealer Principle Andrew Needham quickly responded to get on board the family friendly sport of Speedway.

Part of the sponsorship will see Selco Brummies boss Graham Drury arrive in style at all Birmingham’s Sky Sports Elite League matches in a gleaming new luxury Toyota Avensis vehicle, complete with distinctive livery.

Fresh from signing German ace Smolinski, Drury said: “I am pleased to drive and recommend cars from Toyota World Birmingham.”