Wolves Speedway’s new-look side was unveiled to the public last night as the squad braved wind and rain at the club’s Press and Practice day, writes Dave Goddard.

After the traditional pre-season photocall with track photographer John Hipkiss, the squad were given plenty of track time, and all eight of the side appeared optimistic about their chances in 2008.

Plenty of hardcore Wolves supporters braved the old to see the new team for the first time, with most eager to see new signings Ales Dryml, Nicolai Klindt and Neils-Kristian Iversen.

Both Dryml and David Howe showed a good turn of pace on a Monmore race strip made grippy by earlier rain, with Howe’s performance particularly impressive as he had just returned from a two-week layoff following his foot injury at the Telford indoor ice meeting.

New man Iversen also looked rapid and stated that 2008 will be an important year for both him and the Wolves. 

“The side looks quite strong and I believe we can challenge for some silverware,” the Dane said, “and my own personal goal is to get into the top eight finishers in the Grand Prix series.”

Fellow Danish newcomer Klindt appeared to struggle slightly as he learned the lines of the tight and tricky Monmore track, but manager Peter Adams said that the young gun could well be a key member of the side this year.

Many fans were pleased to see the reappearance of Christian Hefenbrock in a Wolves race jacket, with the German looking lively and quick on track, while new skipper Fredrik Lindgren said that his winter of racing in Australia had set him up well for the new season.

Several other riders attended the practice session, including 2007 Wolves Peter Karlsson and William Lawson, plus teenage sensation Tai Woffinden, German star Robbie Kessler and ex-Wolf Daniel Nermark.  The night’s lone faller was young gun Joe Haines, who looped spectacularly when attempting a practice start.

Wolves stage their annual pre-season fans’ forum at Monmore Green tonight at 7.30pm, with all the squad expected to be present.