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SPEEDWAY: Trump calls for support
IF you want to see top quality speedway, then get along to Oxford Stadium every week - that's the rallying call from promoter Allen Trump.
The Oxford Cheetahs promoter may find out this week whether his bid for Premier League speedway has been successful.
But even if it is turned down, Trump says that he will back Conference League speedway - if the Oxford public back him.
"I'll provide a strong team, if there is the level of support," he said.
Trump (pictured) has lost money as an owner, but says he is dedicated to Oxford.
He said: "I will need around 800-plus fans each meeting to cover the increased costs of running in the Premier League.
"On top of that, I need a guaranteed total sponsorship of around £35,000.
"I have promises from various sources if we get into the Premier League, and if Oxford wants it, the fans will have to add their support.
"We have set up a whole new structure, but it relies on bigger gates and sponsor- ship."
Trump revealed that his ambition is to provide Oxford with high level action, but rules out the Elite League.
"It has been shown in the past that Oxford cannot support an Elite League club," he added.
"If it has to happen, I will continue in the Conference next season, but it would be difficult to have a meaningful season - ie, a meeting every week.
"Normally, the stadium landlords would expect to receive around £28,000 for a season, but in the Conference there would be only 16 meetings at home, possibly pushing my costs up to £1,600 (per meeting).
"The problem is that the GRA want the money up front, which puts a big dent in the finances before the season begins.
"Oxford is a very tentative town in which to run speedway.
"You walk a fine line, but I like to think we have kept the crowds up with some fine performances so far."
The result of Oxford's application could be announced as early as today, but the decision will need to be ratified at the AGM at the end of the month.
As soon as the result is known, Trump intends to call a meeting at Oxford Stadium to outline his future plans and sponsorship.
4:11pm Wednesday 31st October 2007
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