OXFORD Spires’ new signing Chris Harris is relishing the challenge of helping the team achieve success in the Premiership this season.

A three-time British champion, Harris arrives at Oxford Stadium with an impressive CV to his name.

The 41-year-old won the British Grand Prix in 2007, has won British Speedway’s top tier on five occasions and spectacularly won last year’s Championship Pairs at Sandy Lane.

He now joins an exciting Spires line-up that also includes Polish superstar Maciej Janowski, plus Nicolai Klindt, Rohan Tungate, Lewis Kerr, Charles Wright and Ashton Boughen.

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With just over two months to go until the opening fixture of the season, preparation is beginning to ramp up and Harris believes the team is shaping up well to have a strong 2024.

He said: “Now that Christmas has passed we’re back in the gym getting ready for March.

“We’ve got a great team with good strength in depth and everyone is up for the challenge.

“It’s difficult with the time difference for the boys over in Australia, but we’ve set up a WhatsApp group to get the team spirit going.”

Harris has been riding at senior level since 1998, but he’s now looking forward to being a home rider in Oxford, at a venue he’s previously enjoyed competing in as a visitor.

He said: “Oxford is a track I’ve always enjoyed going to over the years. It’s a great shape, so to be a home rider now in the Premiership is very exciting for me, and we’ve found a good set-up which works for us in the last two years.

“I’m looking forward to seeing everyone trackside come March, a lot of supporters have asked me when am I going to come and ride for Oxford, which has been answered now.

“Now it’s down to myself and the team to deliver on track. I’m looking forward to working with Peter [Schroeck, team manager] who has a great background in the sport and always puts 100 per cent into the job he’s handed.”