BELLE VUE SPEEDWAY: CAPTAIN KURTZ SETS SIGHTS ON CRAVEN WIN

Words: Hayley Bromley…Images: Eddie Garvey

BELLE VUE Captain Brady Kurtz is next to join the field for the 2024 Peter Craven Memorial and though renown to be a team man for the ATPI Aces, he has his sights set on individual glory on March 18.

The 27-year-old retains the skipper’s armband for the upcoming Premiership campaign and has enjoyed a very productive winter period in his native Australia.

In the 2024 Australia Solo Championships, he finished an overall fifth in the standings and rounded off his campaign with a tremendous victory in the final round at Mildura last month.

He then returned to the scene of his win in the FIM Oceania Championship vying for the final spot in the 2025 Speedway Grand Prix Qualifiers, which he clinched after finishing third.

In past seasons, Kurtz has come close to claiming the prestigious Peter Craven Memorial Trophy, just missing out on the top three last year while claiming bronze in the 2020 staging.

But though yet to add his name to the legendary roll of honour, Belle Vue CEO Mark Lemon believes Kurtz has what it takes to make it happen.

He said: “Brady is a world class performer, and since joining Belle Vue he has really bought into the spirit of the club and the whole Mancunian lifestyle.

“The supporters love him and I think this year is going to be a big season form him, and I’m certain he will want to get things off to a flying start.

“It wouldn’t be the first time he’s made a Peter Craven Memorial final, and the top step of the podium is well within his ability to achieve.

“I’ve said it before, but this event always attracts a fantastic field and, yes, there are the favourites for the win, but you can’t rule out guys like Brady.”