The Matt Read Farewell Meeting
By Ian Belcher

Somerset 'Mike Manning Audio' Rebel star, Matt Read, has announced that he is to stage a farewell meeting at Somerset's Oak Tree Arena on Friday 22nd September.

Despite making a miraculous recovery from the horrendous injuries he received during a long track meeting in France in 2004, the Hampshire based 24 year old has been advised to call it a day as far as any future return to the saddle is concerned and although an Eastbourne asset, Read wanted to bring the curtain down on his career at Somerset, as he explained.

"Somerset and the Rebels are my speedway home as far as I am concerned, everything to do with the place is fantastic, the club, the promotion, the track, but most of all the fans. I was so happy during my time with the Rebels that there was never any doubt as to where I wanted to stage this farewell meeting."

"At present I'm not sure as to the format of the meeting, but I can assure the fans that'll I'll be going out in typical 'Readie' style! A number of top line Elite League riders have already contacted me asking to ride, which is fantastic."

"In addition to the meeting itself, there will be some sidecar speedway racing and an exhibition of freestyle moto-cross riding."

In a career that took in Arena Essex and Isle of Wight as well as Somerset and his parent club Eastbourne, Read made his Somerset debut in May 2003 when immediately won over the Rebels fans with an all action performance in scoring a paid 14 points against Exeter.

His 100% commitment and gutsy riding style made him a firm favourite with the fans, for whom he always had time to speak or sign autographs, and it is anticipated that there will be a full house at the Oak Tree Arena to give one of speedway's true entertainers a fitting sign off to his career.

Sponsorship packages for Matt Read's Farewell Meeting are also available for anyone interested in supporting Matt in this special event. Further details of the packages available can be obtained by contacting Ian Belcher with your contact details at ian@belcher4.freeserve.co.uk

This article was first published on 8th May 2006