Speedway: Crump believes GP is in safe hands with Holder (From Bournemouth Echo)

Speedway: Crump believes GP is in safe hands with Holder

7:00am Wednesday 26th September 2012 in Sport By Ian Wadley

SPEEDWAY royalty Jason Crump announced his decision to quit the Grand Prix series – and then expressed his desire to see Chris Holder crowned the new king.

Crump will make his final world championship appearance at the last GP of 2012 in Torun on October 6 after opting to focus solely on domestic league racing in Europe.

The three-times global champion leaves the GP scene as the highest scorer in the history of the series following 17 years on the biggest stage.

Crump, 37, is now hoping that compatriot Holder, the Pirates captain, can hold on to his two-point lead over Nicki Pedersen to continue flying the flag for Australia.

He said: “When I first entered the world championship arena, I was fortunate to have some outstanding Aussie compatriots like Leigh Adams and Craig Boyce, who were durable opponents but huge inspirations on and off the track.

“I leave the series with Chris Holder on the brink of star status and fellow Aussie Darcy Ward ready to step on to the GP stage. I have no doubt they will lead the new generation on track with style.

“I feel privileged to have played a part in the early part of Chris’s career and, of course, I would like nothing better than for him to be the next Australian world champion after me.”

Magnanimous Crump revealed that he decided to announce his GP retirement on Monday as he did not wish to take any attention from the title winner in Torun.

He said: “After 12 rounds and a tough series, whoever wins the overall world championship in Torun deserves all the plaudits.

“I am extremely proud of my record in the Grand Prix and have gone into every world championship meeting believing I could win.

“This is a tough, unforgiving series and I would like to think that I have always been a contender.

“Although I am not at the Grand Prix series summit with one round remaining, I won a round in Copenhagen this year and have made finals throughout and made my presence felt.

“I’ve had my time and been one of the few to reach the pinnacle. Now, it is an opportunity for others to take the stage and enjoy the limelight.”

Meanwhile, Pirates have slashed ticket prices for next Monday’s Elite League play-off semi-final, second leg against Lakeside at Wimborne Road .

The showdown will not be screened live on television and Poole chief Matt Ford is offering reduced admission in a bid to attract a bumper crowd.

Prices: Adults £13, OAPs £10, Children (accompanied by one adult or OAP per child) £1, Family (two adults plus two children) £25. Season ticket holders will receive a free programme.