Wigg could be a British motor star of the future

The nephew of an Oxford Cheetahs speedway legend is set to compete at the North Berks Super Trial on Sunday.

Recently crowned 2009 Junior World Trials Champion, Alex Wigg, 19, says he is looking forward to taking part in the event at Aston Tirrold.

He told BBC Oxford: "There's a lot of people there who you know, a lot of friends and family and it definitely spurs you on."

Wigg's uncle, Simon, was a British Speedway and World Longtrack champion.

He added: "It's nice to be able to ride in front of them and I would say it's definitely an advantage to have them there."

Having won a number of world and European titles at youth and junior level, Wigg says he owes much of his success to his father, Julian, and his late uncle, Simon.

A rider for the Oxford Cheetahs between 1984-1986 and 1988-1990, Simon Wigg became a speedway legend after winning the British Speedway Championship in 1988 and 1989.

He also won a number of other titles, including the World Team Cup, before passing away in 2000 following a long battle with a brain tumour.

Wigg said: "My uncle was so successful and so professional. He was a great model and you want to try to emulate him and repeat some of his success."

Wigg also praised his father for his current success. "My Dad's always been there throughout my career and it simply wouldn't be possible without him."

Looking ahead to Sunday's event, Wigg is hoping to build on his impressive season by recording another victory.

"I'm confident because I've beaten everyone that's riding there at some point throughout the year. The home support should give me a boost and I think I can grasp the occasion, so hopefully a win should be on the cards."

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