Devil Gough turns Swindon offer down
Welshman Gough rode in seven league and cup meetings for the Devils this year, averaging 2.56.
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."
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