Swindon businesses looking for a staff or client night out with some high-octane thrills should take a new look at what speedway has to offer, according to one local businessman.
Dom Threlfall, owner of Pebley Beach Suzuki and Hyundai dealership, says an evening at a Swindon Speedway meeting gives real entertainment value against an informal but exciting backdrop.
“Speedway is one of the town’s hidden gems,” says Dom, who has been a fan of the Robins since he was a youngster.
“There’s nothing quite like the roar of the bikes, the electric atmosphere among the crowd, and the camaraderie between the fans for breaking down barriers between people and getting them chatting and enjoying themselves. We’re using the venue for staff nights out more and more, but our corporate offer, which includes a pit walk to meet the riders, and food and a pay bar in the lounge, is also taking off. People who have never been to a speedway meeting are telling us it’s a revelation to them – and a fraction of the cost of football.”
For the uninitiated, speedway involves four motorcycle riders competing over four anti-clockwise laps of the oval loosely packed shale circuit at the club’s ground in Blunsdon stadium. But these aren’t just any motorcycles – they are specially adapted to use only one gear, and they have no brakes. The riders travel up to 70mph, before using their skill, judgement and sheer bravery to slide their machines into the bends to reduce speed before they hit the fence – or each other. Riders come from all over the world, and Sky Sports cover some of the home games in Swindon.
Dom says he believes it’s the real-life noise and dirt and smell of a fast, adrenaline-filled sport that is attracting people of all ages and backgrounds to the sport.
“We all love computer-based role playing games, but getting out into the stadium and being next to the rough and tumble of the races with your colleagues or customers is great, too. It’s brilliant for bonding, and the corporate deals for staff and client entertaining are very flexible. Suddenly, the spit and sawdust of speedway is cool, and we have a generation of people who may never have heard of the sport before trying it, and loving it.”
There are various tailor made packages available, including ten guests in the lounge, a Man of the Match presentation or sponsorship of the meeting for between £500 to £700, depending on the meeting. On televised Sky Sports nights there are further opportunities for sponsorship, that includes the chance of achieving national on-screen coverage.
But an evening at speedway need not be client-driven, says Dom. Managers and staff can simply get together and arrange an evening for £10 per person, including entrance and a burger and soft drink.
For more information on the various entertainment options, ring Dom Threlfall on 01793 816800.
