Jack Smith, a member of Berwick's Cab Direct Championship team, has revealed that his pre-season preparations have been significantly enhanced by having clarity over his future at an early stage. Smith is returning for a second year with the Bandits, but this will be the first time since 2021 that he has been contracted to a second-tier club for the start of a season. He shared his thoughts on the mental challenges of preparing for a season without a guaranteed team contract, stating, 'It's mentally tough getting bikes and yourself ready without actually being signed for a team. Despite that, you have to be fully prepared and ready to go in case the call comes. It's like going into the season with a blindfold on.' Smith's proactive approach to securing early contracts with Berwick and Buxton NDL has paid off, as he enters the season in the best physical, mechanical, and mental shape of his life.
