Rossiter urges supporters to give Rowe time to develop

ALUN ROSSITER has welcomed the signing of local speedway sensation Anders Rowe to the Swindon Robins 2020 squad, but has urged supporters to give the teenager time to develop as he makes the step up to Premiership speedway. Total Sport Swindon’s Ryan Walker got the thoughts of the Robins team manager following the latest rider announcement.

At the age of just 17, Rowe will be the youngest rider in the top flight of British Speedway next season. But having ridden for the Swindon Sprockets along with featuring in both the National League and Championship last season, Rowe isn’t afraid to mix it with some of the Nations top riders. 

However, his inclusion in the Robins 2020 side will see him take his racing career to new heights as he attempts to help the Robins defend their league and cup titles. 

Speaking on the signing of Rowe, team manager Rossiter has backed him to become a Blunsdon success but has asked supporters to give the youngster time to develop. 

“I’m sure there will be people saying that we’ve only brought him in because of the averages but he’s been on my phone constantly saying he wants to come,” said Rossiter. 

“I’ve not seen a lot of him but I’ve spoke to Championship promoters and they’ve recommended him and told me he reckons he will be ready.

“Of course he will struggle at times and I think it will be difficult but we’re confident in his abilities,” he added.

“He rode in the main body of the team at Somerset and did well.

“It’s a big step into this league,” said Rossiter.

Rowe’s inclusion in Swindon’s 2020 squad sees him become the fifth member of the team joining Jason Doyle, Troy Batchelor, Rasmus Jensen, and Ellis Perks.

But despite the leagues 42.5 points limit restricting Rossiter’s team selection, the Swindon manager insisted that Wootton-Basset based Rowe has got his place on his own merit, before adding that he will have the experience of some world-class riders to learn from next season.

“It’s going to be tough with the limit but the way we’ve gone that’s the way it is,” said Rossiter.

“He’s the last local lad apart from Daryl Ritchins to break into the team and that’s great for the club.

“I’m not doing it just because it’s a nice story,” added Rossiter. 

“If you listen to Doyley [Jason Doyle] he’ll give you as much help as he can.

“He’s got a great bunch of riders around him to listen too and take advice from,” said Rossiter.

Picture Credit: Swindon Speedway