A YOUNGSTER from Bretford is aiming to transfer his pedal power into horse power this season when tackling his third full season in Speedway.
16-year-old Kyle Roberts, who currently races for Coventry Cycle Speedway, is seeking to repeat his trail-blazing success in motor speedway and has already shown signs of promise.
However the former Kenilworth School pupil is now appealing to area businesses and speedway fans to boost the chances of him achieving his ultimate dream of riding for the Coventry Bees.
Helped by parents Mark and Rosie, Kyle first purchased a speedway bike two years ago and the family have spent the past 24 months travelling the length and breadth of Britain to enable Kyle to attend matches, training schools and practice sessions.
Despite rapid progress, the teenager suffered a tremendous set-back a year ago when breaking his upper left arm at a training match in Scunthorpe – resulting in four months on the sideline.
Kyle currently funds all his speedway equipment by working part time in various jobs, though now wants financial backing to make the next step in the sport.
He said: “Every penny I earn goes into my speedway equipment, travelling and repairs.
“My parents have helped me all they can but they are just normal people with normal jobs.
“Costs of speedway at the level I have reached are preventing my progress and I urgently need help to continue my dream to eventually race for the Coventry Bees.”
Speedway is a family affair to the motorcycle mad Robert family.
Father Mark drives Kyle to his race meeting, mum Rosie sorts out travelling arrangements and sister Kelly-Jay manages Kyle’s facebook page and is head of organising fundraising events for her little brother.
Kyle added: “It’s my dream to race for the Bees.
“My grandmother worked at the Stadium for 30 years and all my family and friends go.
“My Mum and Dad have been going since I was born.
“If I was to realise my dream, I would be the first Coventry and Warwickshire born and bred rider to race for the Bees for three decades – I just need some financial backing to do it.”
Local Bees fan Mike Allen, a speedway supporter for 40 years, said: “Kyle has got wonderful natural ability but because speedway is not an Olympic sport, outstandingly gifted youngsters like him cannot gain Lottery funding.
“He’s an explosive talent that needs some fairly small scale financial help.”
If you’re interested in sponsoring Kyle, contact Mark on 07899 793532.
