SGP: Hungry Harris eats away at the top 8

http://www.worldspeedway.com/artman/publish/article_14142.shtml

The penultimate 2010 Speedway Grand Prix took place in Terenzano, Italy and was definitely one to remember.


The forecasts had predicted heavy rain but luckily the sun shone long enough to see an action packed meeting with a new world champion crowned! The moment Poland had been waiting for, Tomasz Gollob secured his first ever world title in speedway much to the delight of the passionate and devoted fans who had travelled to Italy to cheer on their hero.

The night will also be remembered for an impressive performance from Britain’s Chris Harris. After a slow start to this season’s GP season, Bomber has turned his season around and come alive. A second place finish in Croatia propelled the Coventry rider back amongst the top 8 and Italy was to prove a happy hunting ground for the winner of the 2007 Cardiff GP.

The semi-final was a nail biting affair with what appeared a dead-heat with Harris and Jarek Hampel. However, the Polish referee, awarded second to the Brit’ which booked him his place in the final. Harris produced an awesome ride in the final and certainly made the new champion work for his money in the last heat but he was unable to claim top step on the podium. Second place on the night was a fantastic achievement for the man from Cornwall and established him in a comfortable 7th place in the standings with one round left.

There had been much talk about the 27 year old having to wait for a wildcard to obtain a place in the 2011 series but it looks like the Cornishman has done his talking on the track and provided a surprise to his critics.

This season has seen the likeable Vastervik rider take the British championship yet again, as well as leading his Elite League club to the final of the play-offs. After a turbulent start to the Bees’ season, Bomber has been an inspirational captain and helped turn their fortunes around.
The change in track conditions in the GP’s has also suited Bomber’s riding styles as now the tracks are less slick, there are more lines for passing and to gain grip on the outside. It has also been noted he has improved his gating technique, he has always been known in the past for not being the sharpest away from the tapes, but recent results have shown he is seemingly getting to grips with this.

2011 is looking bright for this young man…