Hatfield's Robert Mear was dusting off his kevlars today at The Arena Essex Raceway, Lakeside, where the Lakeside Hammers hold their home meetings in the Sky TV Speedway Elite League

With the 2012 season finally just around the corner, Hammers rider of the year (2011) Robert Mear was putting his machines through their paces under the clear blue skies at the Arena Essex Raceway, where he took to the track for the first time in a team practice session. All nine squad members were present, initially posing for team shots in front of a selected number of media organisations, before taking to the track individually and in pairs to complete a large number of laps.

Hammers Co-promoter Jon Cook commented “Rather than trying to condense everything into the few hours of a traditional press and practise event, we secured the whole day at the Raceway. This provided an ideal opportunity for all of the team to get lots of valuable track time, allowing them to test their set ups and engines, and iron out any gremlins at their own pace.

Some of the Hammers have already had competitive track time such as Robbo, Kauko, Justin and Richie in the early Premier League challenges, while Lee, Davey and PK have taken part in individuals, so these practice sessions are ideal for them to get dialled into the Raceway, and for Rob and Kim to blow the cobwebs away and get some laps under their belts.

We want to come out with all guns blazing against Belle Vue in our first Elite League meeting on the 30th March, and plan to give all the squad further track time between now and then, which also allows them to focus on putting on a show for the fans at the Hammers Open night this coming Friday.” After completing numerous laps at yesterday’s team practice session, the rider renowned for his never give up attitude, looked forward to the Hammers 2012 campaign. ”The team is looking very strong this year, the Management have made some really good signings over the winter and I think we have a very good chance of silverware this year so long as we all steer clear of those dreaded injuries and engine problems. I think this is the strongest team line up I have been in for a while and I’m looking forward to getting on track with them, and doing the business in front of the Hammers fans.