Speedway
Bees pair set for season opener

Buy photos » Edward Kennett and Chris Harris are set to take part in the Brandonapolis event at Brandon next March. Photo by Jeff Davies (s)

TWO Coventry Bees riders will be compete in the opening Grand Prix of the season in New Zealand after Jason Bunyan was handed a wild card spot for the event.

The 32-year-old will join Bees skipper Chris Harris at the inaugural FIM New Zealand Grand Prix event on March 31.

Bunyan, who will be racing in the Premier League for Rye House this year while doubling-up with the Bees alongside Adam Roynon, won the competition six times.

Bunyan will wear the famous No.16 race jacket at Western Springs Stadium where he will compete against the world's top 15 riders.

"I’m honoured to have been offered such a huge opportunity," said Bunyan, who has made a big impact in the New Zealand Championships.

"This meeting is a great chance to raise the profile of speedway in New Zealand and I’m glad to be a part of it.

"I’ve had some great success in the country throughout my career and I’ll do my best to make sure that continues at Western Springs."

The Bees main sponsor has agreed to continue their sponsorship of the club for a ninth year, making it one of the longest-running arrangements in the sport.

Builders merchant Buildbase first linked up with the Bees in 2004, and have seen the club win three Elite League titles, two KO Cups, two Craven Shields, two EL Pairs and one Elite Shield. The successful long-term rider sponsorship deal with Teng Tools will also continue.