Pirates star Lawson: 'I never considered going anywhere else'

Richard Lawson confirmed his return to Pirates in 2024 and insisted: “I never considered going anywhere else.”

The Whitehaven-born charger, nicknamed the Rocket Man at Wimborne Road, is set for his third consecutive season in the skull and crossbones.

Lawson, 37, joins captain Ben Cook and youngster Sam Hagon as confirmed riders for Poole next term. He will also retain the number one race jacket he has held since July.

Speaking to the club website, Pirates asset Lawson said: "It was so easy for me to agree to a third time with Poole.

“I never considered going anywhere else, although I was approached by a few clubs, which is always nice to hear, but for me this is now my club and where I feel I belong."

Lawson helped Poole seal a league and cup double in 2022, as well as the inaugural BSN Series title a season later.

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??‍?? Richard Lawson lifts the lid on being the Rocket Man at @poolespeedway ??

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— Dan Rose (@Dan_Rose_2) November 2, 2023

As well as gunning for more silverware in 2024, the British charger is also set to have a testimonial meeting staged at Wimborne Road next season.

Poole promoter Danny Ford said: “For sure it is going to be a big year for Richard all round.

“He has a testimonial meeting to look forward to and we are delighted to be able to stage it here at Poole where Richard seems totally at home since joining us just prior to the 2022 campaign.

“He certainly underlined to us his true credentials last season when he took on the number one berth and was unbeaten in more than half of his rides from that position.

“We are delighted to have him back for a third term and I am sure that our sentiments will reflect those of our supporters."

Lawson is retained on an 8.48 average, with Poole still to name four of their septet for 2024.

(Picture: Taylor Lanning Photography)