Pirates: Loram could get Poole farewell (From Bournemouth Echo)

Pirates: Loram could get Poole farewell

6:15pm Wednesday 24th February 2010 in

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PIRATES cult hero Mark Loram has been granted a ‘British Farewell’ meeting and it could be staged at Poole.

Loram – the first man to lift the world title while a Pirates rider in 2000 – was forced to retire from racing through injury at the end of last year.

And, after being a firm crowd favourite at all UK tracks since he began his highly successful career in 1987, the 39-year-old has been granted a richly deserved benefit in 2011.

Ipswich, close to his Stowmarket home, is believed to be the favourite track for Loram to say farewell.

But Poole, the scene of an unforgettable night of celebration in September 2000 when Loram returned from Poland as Britain’s sole world champion of the past 18 years, is also a contender.

Pirates chief Matt Ford said: “Mark has been a fantastic ambassador to British speedway and fully deserves to go out with a bang with his own farewell meeting.

“Anyone who saw Loramski ride for Poole in 1999 and 2000 will know what a thrill merchant he was and he remains one of the most popular riders ever to adorn Pirates colours.

“I’m really pleased Mark has accepted our invitation to be inducted into the Poole ‘Hall of Fame.’ “The ceremony will take place during a special celebration dinner on Tuesday, April 6.

“It’s bound to be a much sought after event and tickets will be sold on a first come, first serve basis.

“Mark really is one of Poole’s all-time greats and I know Pirates fans will want to pay tribute to him.”