Skipper Doolan to step down from team racing

Berwick skipper Kevin Doolan is hanging up his kevlars and is stepping back from competitive racing next season.

As a result ‘King Kev’ as he has been dubbed by the Bandits’ supporters, will not be racing in the Championship with the club in 2020.

Aussie Doolan has raced in Britain since 1999, with Belle Vue, and has had two spells with Berwick. He joined them for one season in 2002 and returned in 2014, and has been a regular fixture in the team since then.

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In between he raced for a host of clubs including King’s Lynn, Ipswich, Glasgow, Eastbourne, Lakeside, Workington, Redcar and Leicester.

But in recent years he has been ‘Mr Berwick,’ and in 2018 enjoyed a highly successful testimonial season which included a testimonial meeting at Shielfield.

Doolan, who has won the old Premier League, Premier Trophy, KO Cup and Fours, is one of the most highly respected riders in the UK and is generally regarded as one, if not the best captain in Berwick’s 50-plus year history.

He is always positive around the pits and is always willing to pass on his knowledge and experience to his fellow team-mates.

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“Everyone has been asking what my plans are for 2020,” he said. “Will I be back for another year? was I thinking about heading back to Aussie? will I be hanging up the my boots and retiring anytime soon?

”Well firstly I've decided not to commit to a full season of racing in 2020.

“I still love racing my bike and I don't see myself hanging the boots up but I do feel like stepping away from full time racing which will free up some time for me to explore other opportunities in life.

“As for my future I don't have any concrete plans, I'll continue to be involved at Berwick helping both the riders and promotion and of course having a beer with the fans. “Most of you will know that I'm now a retained fire fighter here in Berwick. When I applied for the training I had no great plan but I was interested to see what opportunities were available in the fire service.

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”For me the timing feels right. I get to stay involved at Berwick Speedway, ensuring the club stays in a strong position, and I get to learn more about the fire service which could be a big part of my future if and when I decide to grow up!“