OXFORD Speedway have snapped up one of the country’s most exciting young stars.

Ashton Boughen, who turned 16 yesterday, will represent the Cheetahs and is set to make his debut at Oxford Stadium on Friday when Plymouth Gladiators visit in the Championship.

The teenager replaces Luke Killeen as one of two Cheetahs reserves for the remainder of the season, with Killeen still a part of the Chargers squad.

Boughen is no stranger to Sandy Lane, having made his British Speedway debut at the Cowley venue in October, when riding for the Chargers in the National League play-offs as an unattached guest.

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The 500cc British youth champion has since represented Leicester Lion Cubs in the third tier, where he has scored 81 points from 46 rides.

Cheetahs team manager Peter Schroeck said: “Ashton is one of the most exciting riders to enter British Speedway in many years.

“His ability on the bike at such a young age is extraordinary and we’re delighted to have him on board.

“Our Championship campaign is entering an important period with only three regular season fixtures to complete before the play-offs begin.

“It’s critical we finish top of the league, to not only send a message out to our opponents, but also secure the route we want to take to the grand final.

“We have every faith in Ashton’s ability to help the team achieve this and look forward to welcoming him into the squad on Friday for his debut. At the same time, we are genuinely devastated for Luke to miss out.

“Luke remains a terrific asset of Oxford Speedway and he has taken his ability to new levels since signing for the club at the beginning of our regeneration campaign.

“He has had an unfortunate time with injuries which have restricted his time on track, but despite this we remain committed to supporting his future and he still has a big role to play in our National League campaign with Oxford Chargers.

“Naturally, he was gutted when we told him the news. But he respected our decision which to me is the sign of a true professional and he will be a major part of our team building plans for 2024 so we can continue our record of helping young riders to progress.

“He has a wise head on young shoulders and we know he has the talent to help take the Chargers into the National League play-offs.”

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