Tony Rickardsson

Lived  up to expectation, more than adequately filling Mark Loram's Number One billing. Was an inspiration to the team, capping the year by regaining the World Individual Crown. Had a few uninspired meetings but was learning the tracks after being absent in 2000. Impressed with the Poole set-up and the rapturous reception after his GP success, a return likely in 2002...

The promoters banked on an improved average after a slightly disappointing 2000. The Captain was again dominant at home but away form was poor, the exception being a match winning display at Peterborough late in the season which kept the Pirates in the title race until mid-October. A difficult decision awaits the promoters during the winter....

Gary Havelock

Lars Gunnestad

A couple of injuries mid-season  hampered performance in his testimonial year resulting in a drop to reserve. But then it all came right and was a match winner at several tracks late on. A strong performance up to the GP Challenge, and  Norwegian Champion yet again, but  disappointing Elite League campaign early on. Whilst not retiring, a return in 2002  seemed unlikely but maybe a reprieve due to that late-season form and/or the exclusion of most GP riders??

After a major injury hampered 2000, this was to be his season but soon dropped down to reserve and seemed to get worse as the season progressed. Lacked any grit at home but regularly picked up points on his travels.  Was dropped in September and had several guest outings for Premier League Trelawney, suggesting a drop next season would do no harm....

Craig Watson

Grzegorz Walasek

After some impressive displays late 2000, much was expected. However a poor start saw a quick drop to reserve. A call-up to the British GP at the Millennium Stadium on 9th June had all the hallmarks of a complete disaster, but Greg rose to the challenge and turned in an admirable display. Shortly after, he employed a England-based mechanic and suddenly his Elite form improved. Confidence returned and scintillating performances home and away during the final months of the season helped keep Poole in the title race. Awarded a GP spot in 2002, and an improved average gives the Promoters another Winter headache.....

First of two 4.50-assessed average reserves in the 2001 line-up. The Promoters were criticized early-on for their reserve signings but whilst the names were unknown to most British fans, they had been observed for some time and had clearly caught the Promoters' eye. "Little Hans" was clearly quick and skilled and soon moved out of reserve berth. An injury at the end of May seemed likely to curtail his season but Hans proved to be a quick healer and returned to the team during September. Had not lost any of his enthusiasm and settled back quickly. Rumour has it the ink is just drying on a 2002 team place...

Hans N Andersson

Krzyzstof Cegielski

Daily Echo Rider of the Year says it all. Another 'unknown' but an impressive winter in Australia made him a hot tip for Elite stardom. Was dynamite at reserve for the Pirates with his out & out racing style and passing - a third-to-first pass against Coventry on the last bend turning a 1-5 to a 3-3 will always be remembered. He ended as the second heat leader - many say a future World Champion? Awarded a GP spot for 2002, and with improved gating it is certainly possible....

Returned to his 'home' track in place of injured Andersen. Originally signed in 1996, Zorro the major crowd pleaser had hot & cold performances. Made way for Andersen's return in September.

Magnus Zetterstrom

David Ruud

Caught the Promoter's eyes at the World U21 Final at Peterborough, and replaced Watson in September. Clearly talented but unfamiliar with English tracks, but took a shine to Eastbourne with an impressive Craven Shield haul. Uncertain about his future in the Elite....