There are some riders who lead with words, and others who lead by example. Danny King has always been firmly in the latter camp.
Since joining the Gladiators at the start of the season, Danny King has embraced that responsibility. While a recent rib injury briefly interrupted his campaign, the skipper is now back on track and looking ahead to the challenges that lie ahead.
Away from the tapes, however, the captain's influence stretches far beyond the points he scores. Whether it's supporting younger team-mates, working alongside Garry May and Scott Nicholls in the pits, or helping keep the team focused when the pressure is on, King plays a vital role in shaping the spirit of this Gladiators side.
We caught up with Danny to talk about his recovery, the realities of being club captain, handling the pressure of Heat 15, what attracted him to Plymouth, and why he was excited by the opportunity to lead the Gladiators.
Danny, first of all, how are you feeling now? It must have been frustrating being forced to miss meetings, but are you pleased with how your recovery has gone?
I'm doing OK. Rib injuries are slow to heal and, although I'm back riding, I still have some pain and discomfort. But I do feel better every day, so hopefully I'll be back to 100% soon.
As club captain, what does that role actually involve away from the tapes? Supporters see the racing, but how much goes on behind the scenes that fans never get to see?
As captain, I try to lead by example. I go out in Heat 1, so I always want to get the win and settle the boys before they head out on track. Behind the scenes, I make sure everyone's happy, their equipment is good, and see if they need anything from me. Being one of the most experienced riders in the team, I like to pass on as much knowledge as I can to my team-mates.
You always come across as one of the calmest riders in the pits, even in the most pressurised meetings. Is that something that comes naturally, or is it something experience has taught you?
It's just experience. Over the years, I've learned how to channel my emotions so I can stay calm and focused in the highest-pressure situations.
The team has had its fair share of challenges this season, but there still seems to be a strong spirit around the club. How important is that togetherness over the course of a long campaign?
It's very important. Speedway always throws hurdles at you. We've had our fair share of injuries this season already, but now we're back to full strength. Hopefully we can push on and make a good run for the play-offs.
You, Scott Nicholls and Garry May are often deep in conversation during meetings. How would you describe that relationship, and how important is it that everyone trusts each other's judgement when quick decisions have to be made?
We have a great relationship, and there's a lot of trust and experience between us. We quite often get our heads together to try and get the best out of whatever situation we find ourselves in.
When you signed for Plymouth this season, what was it about the club that appealed to you, and what did it mean to be asked to captain the Gladiators?
Plymouth had never really been on my radar because it's so far away from where I live, but I was excited by the challenge. The club is very professional and is pushing the sport forward in the right direction, so I was excited to become a part of that. As for being captain, it's always an honour to be asked. I'll always take that role seriously and try to lead by example.
You've become known as one of British Speedway's most dependable riders. Is consistency something you've consciously worked on over the years, or is it simply a product of experience?
I've worked very hard on it over the years. It's very difficult to be consistent in this sport, so it takes a lot of hard work to achieve it. I've been riding for a long time now, and I've used that experience to work out how to become more consistent.
Heat 15 is often where captains earn their reputation. Do you enjoy the pressure of knowing the result can come down to those final four laps?
No! 🤣 As a rider, you never want a last-heat decider because there's a lot of pressure on you. But it's part of the job, and I can confirm it's a brilliant feeling when you pull it off. Obviously, it's the complete opposite if you fall short, but I guess that's the beauty of competition.
Away from Speedway, what does Danny King enjoy doing to switch off? Or is Speedway one of those sports that's never really far from your thoughts?
Golf is my switch-off. I love it, and if I can find the time to get out on the course, I always will
Finally, the Plymouth supporters have shown incredible backing for the team this season, home and away. What message would you like to leave them with as the season heads towards its conclusion?
Don't change! The support at Plymouth is amazing. The atmosphere the supporters create is superb, and every rider feels it. It certainly gives us a lift.+
