Scott Nicholls, the seasoned Oxford Speedway star, has underscored the significance of the Speedway Riders’ Benevolent Fund (Ben Fund) ahead of the highly anticipated Ben Fund Bonanza, set to take place at the BetGoodwin Oxford Stadium on Sunday, March 23, at 6 pm. The event, now in its 15th year, will raise funds to support both long-term and short-term injured riders.
This year’s Bonanza promises to deliver one of the most exciting line-ups in recent years, with three members of the BetGoodwin Oxford Spires – Maciej Janowski, Charles Wright, and Erik Riss – confirmed to participate. Additionally, Sam Masters will represent the SD Timmo Car Sales Oxford Cheetahs powered by County Plumbing Supplies. The event will also feature three Grand Prix riders: current World No. 3 Freddie Lindgren, 2017 World Champion Jason Doyle, and Max Fricke.
Nicholls, who has captained the Oxford Cheetahs for the past three seasons, will miss the start of the season as he continues to recover from a shoulder injury sustained last October. Despite his injury, the seven-time British Champion is eager to emphasize the vital role of the Ben Fund in supporting riders who are injured on the track.
“I think many riders are unaware of the significant impact the Ben Fund has on the sport,” Nicholls remarked. “What they provide and the passion they put into their work is extraordinary. It’s unfortunate that many don’t fully appreciate what they do. The Bonanza is an event that every rider should participate in, not necessarily by contract, but because it should be highlighted just how important the Ben Fund is and the incredible work they do.”
Nicholls further stressed the importance of promoting awareness of the Ben Fund, urging promoters and riders to recognize the value of the organization’s support. “Sometimes, it feels like an imposition for riders to participate in Ben Fund collections during a match when they’re focused on the job at hand,” he explained. “But if riders truly understood how much the Ben Fund contributes, they’d be more than willing to help.”
He continued, “Every club should have the Ben Fund logo on their race suits and feature details about the fund on their websites. Many people are unaware of what the Ben Fund does, and it’s only fair that they are informed about the crucial support it provides.”
In addition to the Bonanza, a fundraising event for the Ben Fund will take place on Friday, March 7, at the Wheatley New Club, located at 3 Blenheim Lane, Wheatley, Oxfordshire. Starting at 7.30 pm, the evening will feature a Race Evening/Social Night, where participants will have the opportunity to choose a rider for each race. This unique event, similar to a horse racing evening, will consist of eight races, culminating in an auction race. The event, organized by Oxford Speedway supporter Neil Ramsden, will also feature the Ben Fund mascot.
Nicholls concluded by expressing his gratitude to the Ben Fund, emphasizing its crucial role in supporting the wellbeing of injured riders and ensuring their recovery and future in the sport.
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