OXFORD have been chosen to launch this year's Elite League speedway coverage on Sky Television.

Cheetahs' home meeting against Belle Vue will be televised live on Wednesday, May 31, while they will also feature in the away meeting at King's Lynn on Wednesday, July 5.

It's a big lift for Cheetahs, whose promoter Steve Purchase said: "It goes to show once again that the facilities we enjoy at Oxford are some of the very best in the country, and it is a major privilege for us to host the event."

Meanwhile, Ipswich, King's Lynn and Peterborough all get three meetings.

In the busy countdown to the start of the season, other events planned are a special speedway night at the dogs next Tuesday, which is a joint venture between the GRA and Oxford speedway, with the proceeeds going to the Save Oxford Speedway campaign. Race sponsorship at £200 is available and every dog, named after past or present speedway riders, has attracted firm support at £20 per dog. Each nominated dog race winner will receive £50. Details from Graham Darling on 01869 240209. Entrance to the meeting is £3.

Cheetahs season tickets are now available at £175 adults, family ticket (up to three children) £350, with special programme price at £1 and early admission at 6pm.

Applications in writing to Oxford Speedway, c/o Oxford Stadium, Sandy Lane, Cowley.

The press launch for Oxford Speedway is at Drayton Park Golf Club on Friday, March 24.

Story date: Tuesday 22 February

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