Belle Vue have brought in Workington’s Australian teenager Tate Zischke ahead of Monday night’s meeting against Ipswich, and parted ways with Connor Mountain.
Zischke will take his place in the team for the club’s home match against the Witches after his performances have been noted by Belle Vue and other Premiership clubs.
Aces CEO Mark Lemon explained: “While it is out of the norm for my management style to make mid-season changes, it was felt this a decision I had to act on.
“Before Zischke’s Championship average rises when July’s official averages come in play, I knew we had to take the opportunity as he is a rider who has been on everyone’s radar.
“With Sheffield and Ipswich seemingly taking a strong hold on the Premiership in recent weeks, I felt we needed to do something to bolster our team to compete with them.
“I’m gutted to release Connor. He has been a pleasure to work with and we’re very grateful to him for his efforts and has put in some solid performances at times for the Aces.
“It is a numbers game when it comes to team building and felt I had to act which is unfortunate for Connor and we wish him every success for the remainder of his season.
“Concerning Tate, we’ve had our eye on him for a while.
“He made his British Speedway debut with Workington this year and he’s been a solid performer, racking up maximums in the Championship which is no mean feat for his limited experience.
“He’s a highly sought after young prospect and we’re lucky enough to have captured his signature as our new No.6 and will make his Belle Vue debut on July 1.”
Eighteen-year-old Zischke added: “Since coming to the UK I’ve been wanting to get in as much riding as I can and improve as much as I can and I feel this is a good next step for me.
“There were a few other Premiership clubs asking after me but I think with Belle Vue, it’s been a dream of mine just like a lot of other guys to ride here.
“I think it’s going to be really good for me in terms of my development. It’s a big step and I do expect a lot of myself but I will take each race as it comes.”
Workington team manager James Denham said: “Tate has gone on loan to Belle Vue as it’s an excellent opportunity for him.
“It’s been a hectic 48 hours trying to get it over the line for him but he deserves it and it’s a track that will suit his style just like it has helped in Dan’s development.”
Zischke has already struck up a firm friendship with Dan Bewley, who is Belle Vue’s Grand Prix star, while fellow Australian Connor Bailey is also an Aces rider after riding in the National Development League for the Comets last season.
