Hickman wins ACU prize

17-year-old Peter Hickman has been named the 2004 ACU Academy Road Race Rider of the Year – heading a shortlist which also contained 13-year-old Chris Jones and 15-year-old Kev Coghlan.

The award is presented based on their performance on the track and dedication to the Academy training programme.

Jones is GP125 Champion at MRO, Coghlan is Aprilia Superteen Champion at MRO. Hickman is National Superstock Cup Champion at BSB.

In the opinion of the committee, Hickman’s win at British Championship level – and his relative lack of racing experience – made his achievement all the more impressive.

Academy Manager Dave Luscombe said: “Peter has worked his way up from the ranks of the Superteens at Club level to winning this National Championship in just a couple of years. Peter’s achievement has clearly demonstrated what is possible if you set your mind to it” said Luscombe.

ACU Road Race Manager Eddie Nelson added: “This young man has proved that British racing is not short of talent, just the opportunities to prove this talent.” He continued.

Previous winners include Jon Kirkham, Tom Sykes and Kieran Clarke.

The award will be presented at the ACU dinner and Awards night in January 2005.