Robert Lambert was crowned the 2018 British Champion at Manchester’s National Speedway Stadium after going through the card unbeaten in the 2018 Sports Insure British Final.
The 20-year old produced some of his most stunning performances to date to bring home the British crown, which also sees him designated wildcard for the upcoming British GP in Cardiff.
Belle Vue representatives Dan Bewley and Craig Cook took second and third place respectively after a fiercely-contested final, in which local lad Jason Garrity was just pipped to the podium.
Steve Worrall, who was handed a late call-up to the meeting after 2 months out of the saddle with a broken leg, was forced to withdraw in the early stages of the night after finding the going tough.
Newly-crowned champion Lambert said: “It’s an incredible feeling. It’s beyond special to come into such a big meeting as this where you’ve got all the best guys in Britain gunning for top spot.
“I never expected to go through the card. On nights like this, you just don’t imagine it’ll happen so to say I’m delighted is an understatement. I couldn’t be more pleased with my performance.
“I just tried to stay composed and focused going into the final. I knew I had stiff competition going for me from all sides and Dan Bewley in particular absolutely knows his way around Belle Vue.
“But I’m thrilled to have won, and to know I’ll be going to Cardiff as the GP wildcard is amazing. It’s something you dream of as a kid so its an opportunity I’ll be taking with both hands.”
British No.2 Dan Bewley said: “I am a bit disappointed, but after such a slow start I can’t really complain with second because I was able to finish much more strongly than I began.
“I wasn’t even sure I’d made the semi-final with the way I rode so that was a huge boost, and to get through to the final was just amazing. All in all, I’m more than happy to take silver this time.”
Outgoing champion Craig Cook said: “It wasn’t the best night for me. I didn’t feel as fast as I did last year but at the end of the day, I know I rode as hard as I could and gave it my all.
“Hats off to Robert Lambert. He rode exceptionally well and to go unbeaten was absolutely brilliant. He’s fully-deserving of the trophy and will, I’m sure, do Britain proud in the Cardiff Grand Prix.”
Words: Hayley Bromley,Images: Ian Charles
The Belle Vue Aces are on the road next week with visits to Wolverhampton and Rye House before the Belle Vue Colts face the Birmingham Brummies at home on Friday June 22.
The Rentruck Aces then take on the Poole Pirates at home on Monday June 25. Tickets for both home meetings are available at ww.bellevueaces.co and at the stadium box office on race night.
