Wilson has high hopes for whizz-kid McGurk

Sam McGurk is the first name on the team sheet for the 2024 Stellar Monarchs Academy team and he will be entering his fourth season in the National Development League.

The 17-year-old from Bradford (pictured) will line up with Workington in the Cab Direct Championship and was looking for more track action.

He said: “I thought it would help my progress to have a home track that was the opposite of Workington. Edinburgh fits that bill and the management and staff all seemed very professional and welcoming when I’ve been there before.

“I’m excited to meet the team, the fans and get some practice laps in ready for 2024. I hope that I progress well during the season and become a valuable team member by helping bring silverware back to Armadale.”

Stellar Monarchs Academy manager Scott Wilson is pleased with his first signing and said: “Sam is one of the bright young talents in British speedway and this is an impressive capture for the club.

“He enjoyed a good season with Workington this year and he’ll be stepping up with them to the Championship in 2024. That’s important for Sam as he develops and, hopefully, racing in both leagues will complement each other and he will maintain the upward trajectory his career is on.”

Wilson added: “A key aspect of next year’s team building is to recruit riders who are hungry and have something to prove. Sam certainly ticks those boxes. I will look for him to take on a heat leader role and win races.”