Speedway star Summers makes it five wizards from Oz for Brum

Dec 17 2009 by Nigel Pearson, Birmingham Mail

BIRMINGHAM have swooped for a fifth Australian by signing Edinburgh’s highly-rated Aaron Summers.

And the rider himself is thrilled with the move as he will be alongside fellow countrymen Jason Lyons, Steve Johnston, Justin Sedgman and Richard Sweetman. American ace Chris Kerr is the other confirmed signing with just one place remaining for the new season which starts in March.

Summers has enjoyed massive success during his time in Scotland, winning the Premier League title last year as well as the Play-offs and Premier Trophy.

“Once it was apparent I wasn’t back with Edinburgh then Birmingham was the place I always wanted to be,” said Summers.

“I like everything about the place. The track is excellent, the fans are awesome and it’s a great team shaping up for next season.

“Jason Lyons is an inspiration to us younger guys. Even when we’re back home in Australia he’s always prepared to help us and I’m looking forward to riding with him.

“There’s only Chris Kerr who isn’t Australian in the team right now which is ironic I guess and we all know each other pretty well.

“I’ve really enjoyed myself with Edinburgh and I regard this as an exciting new challenge in my career. I want to play a part in bringing success to Birmingham and I know I can do well on the Perry Barr track.

“I scored 13 points there towards the end of last season and I’d love to be able to do that every week. It’s a very fair track and it gives some good racing for the fans.”

Boss Graham Drury is delighted to get his man on a 6.07 average and says Summers has been a delight to deal with.

“I had a text message from Johno (Steve Johnston) in Australia and he had heard Aaron might have been coming out of Edinburgh. His information was correct,” said Drury.

“Johno gave a glowing reference and told me to sign him at the first opportunity and I’m delighted to have him on board.”

He added: “I know there have been concerns that his machinery hasn’t always been the best, but on a Birmingham race day he will be travelling down early and spending some time with Jason Lyons who is a perfectionist when it comes to equipment.”