MASTERS LEAVES MONARCHS

SAM Masters has confirmed his decision to leave Edinburgh was for travel reasons.

Masters, who has recently become a father for the second time, achieved the highest average in the Championship this year and also won the league riders’ individual at Poole, whilst leading the Monarchs into the play-off semi-finals.

He said: “The sole reason I have to have some time away from Edinburgh is the travel from my base in the UK.

“I don’t really want to leave to be honest, because Edinburgh is an awesome club – the club, the fans, the track are all great. I have two good mechanics in Robbie and Cammy up there as well.

“By riding down south I will have a bit more time with the family. I will really miss Edinburgh, and (partner) Tegan will too.

“If Edinburgh was three hours further south I would have spent my whole career there I am sure, but for now I need to have one or two years away – that’s what I’ve told John (Campbell). There’s no reason other than travel I’d want to leave, I’ve never had any hassle or drama with them.”