CHAMPIONSHIP side Redcar have been forced into a pre-season team change, after receiving the disappointing news that James Shanes will not be fit for the start of the 2023 season.
Shanes, who suffered a broken right arm whilst racing grasstrack in Holland last year, will be replaced by young British prospect Connor Bailey, who until now had found himselft without a Championship team place.
Shanes explained, "Following my bad crash in Holland in July last year I suffered a nasty break to my right humerus. I had a pin put in and was expected to make a full recovery, however in September I started having complications which led to me seeking further advice from specialist surgeons in London.
"Unfortunately I was told I had an infection in my bone/metalwork and had a second operation to have it all removed and for a plate to be put in.
"Again 3 months down the line I was expected to make a full recovery and be back on a bike by March at the latest. I started prepping for the season signing for Redcar and numerous grasstrack meetings.
"Tragically last week all of this season's hopes came crashing down when I had a review with my surgeons who informed me that I may have another infection and as a result have a very unstable fracture and weak bone.
"I have been put in a brace to immobilise my arm in the hope that helps and taking lots of antibiotics but have been told a third operation is highly likely."
Speaking about the change, Bears' co-promoter Jamie Swales said, "We are gutted to have lost James and we really hope this isn’t the last we see of him. Connor is a great prospect and was hugely unlucky to find himself on the sidelines.
"He has improved his average every year so far and a change in home track is probably the best thing for him at this stage in his career. Hopefully, we can help him continue his improvement as he has already shown a liking for our track on previous visits".
20-year-old Bailey also lines up for National Development League newcomers Workington in 2023. He enters the Bears' side on a 4.32 average, after spending the 2022 season with the Glasgow Tigers.
Image by Taylor Lanning