Pirates: Havvy back as number eight (From Bournemouth Echo)

Pirates: Havvy back as number eight

7:00am Thursday 26th November 2009

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GARY Havelock has made a remarkable Pirates return – seven years after his first spell with the club ended.

The charismatic former world champion thought he’d kissed goodbye to his Elite League riding days when he left Arena at the end of 2005.

But Havelock could line up in the top flight again after being named as Poole’s surprise number eight last night.

The 40-year-old, who proved a big hit during his successful previous Pirates spell from 1998 to 2002, will be on permanent standby to cover for injuries and rider unavailability.

Poole chief Matt Ford said: “There’ll be some people wondering why we didn’t go for Ben Wilson at number eight, especially because we’ve already given assurances to Jason Doyle he’ll ride in our team as long as he’s fit.

“I wanted someone that, when the chips are down and we need to pull something out of the bag, he will.

“With Gary Havelock, I know I’ve got that – having worked with him already for four years.

“In fact, he still has three businesses here sponsoring him, Gas Appliance Superstore, Bournemouth Bedding Centre and Argon Welding, and that’s seven years after he left!

“I just know I feel secure with my number eight, that he’ll be able to help the club out in its hour of need.

“I do want to keep the opportunity to work with Ben again.

“If Ben is looking for a full-time Elite berth in 2011, I’d like it to be at Poole because he’s a very good rider who’ll improve.

“It’s a horses-for-courses year and Gary fits the bill.”

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