The Ipswich Eagles were the surprise package of the Cycle Speedway European Club Championship, being the only UK team to make the grand final. Held over three days in Exeter, Ipswich progressed through each round at the first opportunity racing in four matches in total, facing eventual Champions Ostrow three times and knocking out much-fancied Wednesfield in the semi-final.

England’s other bookies’ favourite Sheffield went out in the second semi, leaving Ipswich to fly the home nations flag in the final with three Polish teams. Ipswich held on to the third podium place until the last few heats, finishing fourth overall.

This was an excellent result for the Eagles, who had perhaps hoped to qualify for the semi finals. With the club currently topping both local leagues and the national Elite League, and its defence of its 2012 and 2013 British Club Championship titles about to start, this 11 year old amateur club is a model for sports development from grass roots to elite level.

Congratulations to Josh Brooke, Ashley Hill, manager Bill Brooke, Jamie Chittock, Leon Mower and Adam Peck.