Bosses at the Burnham-On-Sea based speedway team Somerset Rebels have moved swiftly to cover for injured Czech International Pavel Ondrasik by signing Stephan Katt as his replacement.
Katt rode for the team in 2003, when he took part in 30 meetings and scored 160 points and registered an average of 5.33 in what was his first season in British Speedway.
A favourite with the Rebel fans for his all action-riding style, the 26-year-old German has been riding for Brokstedt in the German League since his time in Somerset, but has also been making a name for himself in a number of individual meetings, twice winning a big indoor tournament in Holland.
“Given the length of time that Pavel was going to be out injured, we decided that it would prove too much of a strain for the rest of the team to operate rider replacement facility,” said Rebel co-promoter Jo Lawson.
“Once we found out that Stephan was available and that his continental commitments permitted his return, it just took a couple of phone calls to complete the signing.”
Speak from Germany to Rebel’s Press Officer Ian Belcher on Friday, Katt said he was delighted to be rejoining the Rebels. “I’m just so happy to be back with Somerset. One minute I was at home organising things for the European season, and the next minute Pete Toogood is calling me and I’m a Rebel again!”
Katt looks set to make his debut in Wednesday’s Premier Trophy match at King’s Lynn, before his first appearance at the Oak Tree Arena in Burnham-On-Sea for next Friday’s clash with Premier League newcomers Mildenhall.
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