Kennett looking forward to press and practice (From This Is Wiltshire)

NEW Swindon signing Edward Kennett believes the club’s press and practice day is the perfect opportunity for the new team to bond ahead of the defence of the Elite League title.

The 2013 Robins will be together as a team for the first time this afternoon when they put their new equipment through its paces at Blunsdon, and also meet the fans as the new season draws ever closer.

Four members of the league-winning side have been retained, and Kennett is keen for himself and fellow newcomers Ashley Birks and Kacper Gomolski to help foster the same team spirit which helped the Robins go all the way last season.

“It’s a new challenge for me and I am really looking forward to working with the new lads, and with Rosco as well, and the season can’t come quick enough really and I can’t wait to get a few laps in,” he said.

“We are a pretty young team and they are a good bunch of guys, and most of them rode together last year which is good.

“I think we will bond pretty quickly to be honest, and that is an important thing in speedway because it’s always good to be in a happy team. A good atmosphere can really help and that all starts at press and practice.”

Kennett has ridden the Blunsdon track many times during his career, but is still expecting to pick up a thing or two as well as test his new equipment.

“Swindon is a track I have always enjoyed racing on, and this will be a great chance to blow the cobwebs out a bit and get some laps done,” he said.

“I know the track really well having ridden it for many years, but no doubt I will pick some pointers up on the way from people like Hans, because he has ridden it more than I have.

“The bikes are coming along well now, and although I am waiting on a few things like the covers I think I am going to be racing on some good equipment in 2013.”

Press and practice opens to the public at 4pm, with admission gained in return for a donation to St John Ambulance who provide the medical cover for all Robins meetings.

The riders are expected to take to the track at around 4.30pm, and will be on hand to meet and greet supporters in the Legends Lounge where the bar will stay open until 8pm.