SOUTHAMPTON hosts the 2016 ICSF European Cycle Speedway Championships later this week.

The cream of riders from the home nations are due to compete at the Winchester Road track, together with a mammoth entry from the mighty Polish clubs.

Among the stars who will be riding are twice World Champion Marcin Szymanski, Lukas Nowacki (World Champion 2009) and defending European Champion Marcin Paradzinski.

The event takes place over Friday and Saturday, with racing starting at 10am both days.

Top riders from Friday will be taking part in the senior and junior semi-finals on Saturday morning.

An added bonus is an official Great Britain v Poland international which is scheduled for a 6pm start on Friday evening. Previous bouts between the two have always provided great entertainment and full-blooded racing that shows all the skill and competitive action from the sport’s top racers.

This is the first time the Southampton club has been invited to stage European final events.

They have previously staged British Championship finals, “Gold Cup” finals and Inter League Test matches.

This week’s event offers another great opportunity for locals to see the very best of the sport, and a chance for youngsters to see what an exciting sport is on offer. New riders are needed for the Southampton club who were established in 1963, have been among the sport’s most successful, with team and individual honours at National and International level. Currently they compete in the South Wales & West League alongside the likes of Poole, Exeter, Horspath, Oxford, Newport (Wales) and Swindon.

The Southampton club is anxious to attract new riders, particularly in the 14-18 age range.

Competition can still be enjoyed by youngsters from the age of eight with special equipment and coaching always available.

Spokesman Brian Makepeace said: “This spectacular two-day event provides great free excitement and entertainment and an ideal chance for youngsters or adults who might like to be involved to come along and see for themselves what this tough and exciting sport can provide.”