FORD NOT BITTER OVER ZABIK U-TURN (From Bournemouth Echo)

FORD NOT BITTER OVER ZABIK U-TURN

7:00am Wednesday 24th September 2008

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PIRATES chief Matt Ford believes Karol Zabik is "a talent" who "deserves" to ride in Britain following the Pole's swift re-instatement into Peterborough's team.

Poole Castle Cover's owner has always been a big fan of the 2006 World Under-21 champion, who has shown his commitment to Panthers by signing for them until the end of 2009.

Rather than being bitter at missing out on the possibility of being able to use Zabik on a low average of just over four points next season, Ford is pleased the rider will be on show regularly in this country.

Ford didn't elaborate on his thoughts about Zabik's full time move to the Showground when contacted by the Echo yesterday.

However, he has told the Poole club's official website: "Things didn't quite work out with us and Karol earlier this year but this was wholly down to Karol's desire to want to do so well too quickly.

"But it seems from the latest news emanating from Peterborough they are happy to give him a job next year and I can honestly say I'm pleased for Karol.

"He is a talent that deserves to be riding over here and if he is happy to ride for Peterborough then I genuinely wish him well."

Ford clarified he hadn't spoken to new Peterborough owner Rick Frost about Zabik's future.

He had, however, talked with Panthers promoter Mick Bratley "as Karol is clearly a rider that would still interest me given his untapped potential and relatively low average."

In a written statement, Bratley said: "As a club, I believe we took the right course of action over the weekend (by sacking Zabik after he had intimated he would like to ride for Poole in 2009).

"Subsequently, after discussions with Karol, he has convinced us he wants his future in British speedway to be with Peterborough.

"To this extent, he has signed a contract with our club for the 2009 season. He is fully aware he will become a Peterborough asset and has stated this is what he wants.

"We have invested a lot of time, effort and money in Karol, both in 2006 and this season and we obviously want a return on that investment.

"He is a young, impressionable and excitable lad, but, with undoubted talent.

"He's been very settled with us since returning this season, we have placed him in a family environment where he is happy and relaxed and can concentrate on his job.

"We all make mistakes in life and sometimes it is correct to give someone a second chance. The important thing is having the courage to do just that."

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