Devil Gough turns Swindon offer down
PLYMOUTH Devils rider David Gough has turned down an offer from National League rivals Swindon to instead ride for the city side in 2009.
Welshman Gough rode in seven league and cup meetings for the Devils this year, averaging 2.56.
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The former Carmarthen and Newport rider rode in both the number two and number four spots in 2008.
However, Gough is looking forward to riding at reserve for the Devils next year, where he is expected to pair up with Cornishman Jason Prynne.
"I was offered a team place at Swindon for next season as they are going into the National League," said Gough.
"But (Devils chairman) Mike Bowden has been good to me and I said I would ride for him, as I like the small tracks more.
"My motors have also been built for that (St Boniface Arena) track.
"As for my bikes, I did have one breakdown last year and that was a fuel pipe breaking.
"After that I had a few clutch problems and could not find out what the problem was.
"But now that has gone and I know Mike has got a lot of trust in me.
"He knows I can do the job I'm there for, so I have spent a lot of money for next year with two new bikes and better and faster parts.
"Hopefully, my bikes should not let me down this year, but all riders have problems."
Gough added: "I think we have got a good team and it will be the best in my opinion, just like last season.
"Me being put at six or seven is where I want to be.
"Number two is the hard spot of the team – it is the graveyard spot because no rider wants to be there."
Although he had limited opportunities with the Devils this season, it would be fair to say that Gough did not fulfil his potential.
Falls in his early matches did not help either his confidence or points total.
But to his credit, Gough bounced back with some fine rides which were not always rewarded with the positions and the points they deserved.
"This year was the first time I had been back on a bike for over two years," said Gough.
"I was not as good as I used to be, but I was getting faster and faster the more I raced.
"I was riding Swindon a lot last season and my track time was only four seconds from (eight-times Grand Prix winner) Leigh Adams.
"After not being on a bike for so long, to go that fast was really pleasing."
5 Comments
by Another welshman, Newport
Monday, December 22 2008, 5:18PM
“Makes me laugh when you read comments from fans, people who have never even sat on a bike let alone try to do what these boys do.
I bet half of them wouldnt like to put there money where there mouths are...”
by Charlierules, Swindon
Wednesday, December 17 2008, 1:17AM
“Look at it from David's point of view. He thinks he turned down Swindon, can ride nearly as fast as Leigh Adams - what a catch - I don't think. This is just a publicity stunt by a desperate welshman.”
by DevilsFan, Devon
Monday, December 15 2008, 6:17PM
“Another inaccurate piece to follow up last weeks article? Who is supplying these stories?”
by Shane Borwell, Redcar
Monday, December 15 2008, 5:42PM
“Doesn't make David Gough look to clever does it, fancy coming out with all that to a newspaper if there's no truth in any of it ...lol,
Being a speedway fan and Redcar Bears supporter i can't believe, that any rider would come out with so much guff..”
by Gary Patchett, Swindon
Saturday, December 13 2008, 9:23PM
“I don't know where you get this drivel from but you would be advised to check your facts before you go into print.
Firstly, Swindon have not decided to enter the National League next season. It is something that we are currently considering. A decision will not be made until the New Year. At this stage it is possible, but not probable.
Secondly, no approach has been made to David Gough, or any other rider for that matter. Why would we make offers to riders when we are unlikely to run at that level? I can confirm though, that the rider has been in contact with us and has been told exactly what I have stated above.”