Sarjeant's first major!

FAST-rising speedway star James Sarjeant is counting down to the new season — after following in the tyretracks of some of the biggest names ever to compete in the sport.

The 21-year-old from Swallownest is preparing for his first full season in the Premier League having won the New Zealand Solo Championship in Christchurch.

The crown has been won in the past by famous speedway names such as Ivan Mauger and Barry Briggs.

It follows a storming 2014 campaign when James rode in a reserve role with top club Coventry Bees.

He’ll continue with the midlands club while ‘doubling-up’ with new club Glasgow Tigers, who won the race for his signature ahead of several other clubs.

His victory in New Zealand, part of a three-month trip down under to stay sharp for the forthcoming British season, came after he scored eight points from his three qualifying races at the Moore Park circuit, dropping his only point to previous multiple winner Jason Bunyan.

James won his semi-final ahead of Dale Finch as Bunyan's challenge ended with mechanical failure.

That opened the door for James to take victory in the final as he stormed away to take the chequered flag - sparking celebrations for his family back home in Rotherham.