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Ky took no prisoners in the opening heats, winning one and placing third in the other. Photos supplied
By Jacob Casha
Promising Burdekin speedway rider Ky Mitchell has returned to Australia with his head held high after a bone-breaking collision in the Czech Republic ended his World Championship campaign prematurely.
The 13-year-old arrived in Europe last month for the 250 Under 16 World Speedway Solo Title, one of three riders selected to don Australia’s famous green and gold after impressing at the National Championships in Albury last December.
Ky took no prisoners in the opening heats, winning one and placing third in the other before a devastating crash in his third and final heat left him with a fractured leg, bringing his campaign to an abrupt end.
“[I was] shattered, as I knew [the crash] put me out of contention for the Finals. I feel I had so much more to show,” Ky said.
Despite the disappointment, Ky walked away with renewed confidence.
“[This experience proved to me] that I have what it takes to compete at this level.”
Ky arrived in Europe after 12 months of rigorous preparation, competing across New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia before earning his ticket to Europe.
His European tour began with practice runs and bike testing in Poznan, Poland, before moving on to Pardubice for the World Semi-Final heats, where his family cheered him on.
Ky’s father, Julian Mitchell, called the crash an “unfortunate” end to an otherwise promising campaign.
“Ky showed that he was on pace with all the international riders during his two practice runs and the first three heats. Coming off a heat win, we were confident he had a high chance of qualifying for the main World Titles,” Julian said.
“We are extremely proud of Ky to get to this point of competing at an international level. To put the green and gold and represent Australia at something we all love was incredible.”
The Mitchells' trip also included a visit to Germany, rounding out a trip Julian called a “huge learning curve.”
“This opportunity opened up our eyes to European Speedway and what the future may look like. To experience this also as a family made it all the more exciting and fun,” he said.
Ky now turns his attention to recovery, with the budding star hopeful of a return to the international stage to settle unfinished business.
“My number-one goal is fitness first followed by bike time. I need as much bike time with competition racing as possible,” he said.
“The plan now is to get back to Europe for another chance by qualifying at the Australian Titles at the end of the year.”
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