Zach’s the lad for The Hammers

Talented youngster Zach Wajtknecht has put pen to paper with Lakeside as a full club asset.

After bursting onto the scene as part of Birmingham’s National League title-winning side last season, the 18-year-old is widely considered one of Britain’s hottest prospects. He will take the step into the Premier League with Somerset in 2016 whilst spearheading Birmingham’s bid to defend their title.

However, he has opted to commit his long-term future to the Vortex Hammers – a move he believes will pay dividends.

“I’m over the moon to join Lakeside as a club asset – for a club like them to show an interest in me is a big confidence booster in itself,” Wajtknecht said.

“There were a number of reasons why Lakeside appealed to me and a number of people played their part.

One of the main reasons I’ve signed for Lakeside is because I see it as a really good challenge for myself.

I know I need to improve on the smaller tracks more than anything and with Lakeside being so tight and technical, it will mean I’m always pushing myself to be the best that I can be on all levels.

Being a club asset for an Elite League side means I can try and put myself in the shop window and show them I want to ride for them in the future.  I think this will be a really beneficial move for me in the long run but meanwhile I can’t wait to have what will hopefully be another successful season for me with Somerset and Birmingham.”

Meanwhile, Lakeside co-promoter Jon Cook has hailed the influence of former Hammers’ favourite Paul Hurry in making the deal happen.

Cook added: “We are delighted to welcome Zach to the home of the Hammers, he is an excellent talent and we look forward to working with him over the coming seasons.

“I’d like to thank Paul Hurry for advising Zach that we are the club best served to help him achieve his speedway goals and Paul too will be back at the Raceway as both a talent scout and within our pits team on race nights.”

Image Credit: Zach Wajtknecht riding for Birmingham: Jeff Davies