Dean Felton has been a stalwart of the National and Premier League over the last 20 years. Here he selects some of his heroes alongside some of those he's ridden with and against. His middle-pairing of Buzz Burrows and Tomasz Gollob would certainly be worth watching!
Tracy Holmes catches up with another star of the past - this time the former Newcastle Diamond - Murray Burt.
Another from the Ivan Blacka collection. This time showing Doug Nichol, Billy Hamill and Bruce Penhall. Doug rode for Middlesbrough for a spell in the nineties when he was known as 'Uncle Doug' due to his connections with Donny 'Too Tall' Odom.
"The old T/S rule was 6 behind and there was no restriction on how many times it could be used. I would still have this rule, the current TR is just tinkering, making team managers almost redundant. If most home teams are savvy enough they'll put their top 3 at 1,4 & 5 thus giving them a strong finish especially with the away team almost certainly putting a heat leader at no3."
"The most memorable race I ever saw was what I thought to be was in one of the London ( Southern ) Riders Championships ( ? ) in the late 1970’s held at Hackney Stadium.
It was four of the most compelling laps I have ever seen and was of Martin Yeates chasing the immaculate Billy Saunders – unsuccessfully. Boy did that lad try.
I have tried to look up the record of this meeting but can not find anything relating to it. Any ideas.
I wonder if Len Silver could remember this event of his.
If only I could trace Martin now, to congratulate him on what must have been his finest race ( match race decider ) in which he came second."
"Thank you for your replies guys it's very touching to hear your stories. I love hearing about your experiences and your knowledge, i'ts great to be able to carry on the history in such a unquie way. Ken nice work, very jealous i have a few more years ahead of me yet til i can retire :), youll have to keep us updated on your adventures. I was surprised to find there is a badge with Pa on it, found it today on the net, it's incredible the advertiesment and memoriablia that is around the world from the earlier days."
"It has been really satisfying, and somewhat humbling, to find that my modest contributions have been read and given some satisfaction and pleasure to Ove Fundin, and the relatives of such famous riders as Jack Biggs and Peter Moore.
I am sure I speak for very many when I say that there must be many thousands of supporters, past and present, who feel privilaged to have witnessed these and other great names in action and who hold great memories. These riders, and many others, gave us something special and enduring. They certainly played a big part in my life, and influenced my sporting interests for ever.
Also, I hope and imagine that there must be many younger readers who wish they could have been there to see these and all the other heroes of the shale recalled."
"It was really interesting to see the name of Roy Uden. I can remember my father talking about his cousin who was a speedway rider and it is a joy to see someone has recorded this information. Thank you."
Jim Chalkley:
"Great pictures of Argentina. Could the promoters please come to Spain & do the same here? I feel the reason speedway failed in Spain was due to the language barrier."
Geoff Langley looks at a subtle change to the tactical ride rule in 2012 and believes it's a step in the right direction.
The above picture shows Tony Webb visiting the grave of the late Garry Middleton. Tony spent many years trying to trace what happened to Garry and reported his sad findings on this site a few weeks back, Tony also reports that a headstone for the late Noel Johnson should be erected in the months ahead. Funds are being provided by the directors of Exeter Speedway.
It's always nice to hear from former riders and one of the very best got in touch this week. See our feedback column below.
Here's another great pic from Ivan Blacka. This shows the students and staff at a recent Billy Hamill Speedway Academy. Leigh Adams was visiting and is also pictured.
Those of you enjoying Dick Barrie's reports from Argentina in Speedway Star may be interested to see some pictures from the events. Point your browser at https://picasaweb.google.com/115855111953269560634/SPEEDWAYPRENSA to take a virtual trip to South America.
Don't forget that the Long Eaton Invaders are holding their pre-season launch night on Saturday. Full details at longeatoninvaders.co.uk/
"Ronnie Moore really was a one off. Watching him show the young Tommy jansson how to ride plough lane and then watching Tommy put it into practise ( very effectively) was a treat to behold. Have a great framed photo by Mike Patrick ( black and white of course) signed to my wife of 40 years Chris of Mirac on his JAP at full chat...memories were made of such things. One other note I knew Cyril Maidment when he was team manager at Wimbledon, mainly because I had managed to get my company to sponsor some second half events, I also visit tenerife twice a year and get dragged to the market in Los Cristianos, only found out three years ago that the man taking the money from stall holders was Cyril, sadly I did;nt recognose him it would have been good to chat."
"Thanks for this review! I'm glad you liked it. I hadn't realised some of the pics were from the wrong year. Sorry about that! I have most of the data for 1983 and 1984 already. You're right its a painstaking effort (and of course I'm doing it for the love of speedway, not the money). I haven't decided yet whether to proceed with those two years. Anybody who can shed light on the missing junior speedway details is welcome to get in touch. "
"Hi have just found your page and as a Tigers supporter since the 1950s and now 79yrs still enjoy a race day. I would like to purchase a photo book of racing at Glasgow, Edinburgh, and paisley. Paisley has memories as I was starting marshall for the last year."
"In 1982 Speedway Yearbook review... "If you need to know the individual scorers from the three team tournament between Ayrshire Rebels, Lanarkshire Eagles and Cumbrians (Craighead Park - 31/11/82) then you'll find it in here" And if you need to know the date you'll find it here - 31/10/1982 ;-) Yours pedantically, Dave Allan"
Our review of a new work that allows us all to step back 30 years and recall what happened throughout the 1982 season. Ideal for those who keep notes on the sport's history or those who just like to wallow in nostalgia. Richard Waller is the author of this book and it's published by Retro-Speedway.
Tracy Holmes catches up with another former rider - this time it's the man who virtually single-handedly built the massive Crewe circuit back in the seventies.
"Thanks Tony for closing the chapter on Garry. I only saw GM a few time at Hackney from bend two near the supporters shop, and that would have been in the early 70's."
"This wasn't one of my better 'off the top of the head' replies. The French star Charles Bellisent never won a French-staged world championship, although he was France's National champion at one time. His son Pierre was also a rider of some merit."
Neil Burrows brings us details of an upcoming social event in Long Eaton. New Peterborough manager Stekkers and the Leicester promotion will be fielding questions from the floor.
Mick Handley recently celebrated his 65th birthday. Thanks to Jim Henry and Bob Andrews for these pictures from the party.
John Hart and Dave Perks
John Hart, Mick and Colin Pratt
Mick and Bruce Cribb
Andy Oldfield wonders whether a Canterbury Crusaders supporters club exists or could be formed - Can You Help?
Dave Bush is looking for colour pictures from the 1973 World Final - Can You Help?
The Long Eaton Supporters Club are staging their AGM on 28th January at Long Eaton Football Club. Full detaiils can be found at www.longeatoninvaders.co.uk
"Have been reading supporters and friends memories of my husband. he was indeed one of a kind. Always generous with his time, to talk or help. I know, The hours that I waited for him to stop talking and make our way home. I wouldn't have had it any other way! Regards to all. Sheila Biggs,"
"Really shocked to hear that Alf has had it so tough recently. I was a fan of his when he rode for Bradford in the early 70's making up a really potent trio of heat leaders in Alf, Gary Peterson and Alan Knapkin. Glad to hear he seems to be looking on the bright side, despite everything. Totally agree with chris backhouse about Odsal, it's a real shame there is no top class speedway in West Yorkshire anymore.if any new track is built though, I hope fans don't expect it to be the same as Odsal (or The Shay) as those places were unique in their own way. We can only hope."
"A correction in regard to the last winner of a French staged world championship. Charles 'Pee Wee' Cullum in 1936 was not the last winner of the event. There was another championship in 1937 which was won by Martin Schweinweiss of Austria ."
"A good article, I almost agree with you but Peter Craven will always stand out for me. I have been watching speedway since 1949 and think that like any other sport money has spoilt it in lots of ways. in the old days you could see lots of thrills from lads on an old bike having a good go at so called stars. My best race I have ever seen was Briggo v Ken Mcki nlay at Wimbledon at a world qualifier."
"Tony, Thank you so much for confirming Garry's death and final resting place. He was one of my first heroes and it's very sad indeed that what was rumoured was actually true. R.I.P."
John Hyam shares his memories of this rider whose career spanned both the pre and post war eras. He turned out for Southampton and Wembley amongst others.
Tracy Holmes catches up with former Monarch, Tiger and Diamond - Alf Wells. Alf has suffered great misfortune in recent years, but retains his sense of humour.
"The good old days. I always sat on the wall at the first bend with my sister. She used to fancy Tony Clarke. I remember the crash that took half the B team and the manager Phil Bishop. "
"Great web site very interesting read. If I am not mistaken I think Reg Duval also rode for Coventry Bees. I watched Les Hewitt win the Brandonapolis in 1950 when I was only a young boy, beating all the top First Division riders at that time. I was in touch with Les during the last 3/4 years of his life he was a great guy and a gentleman."
"So far as the French were concerned, Fernand Meynier was a world champion. In regard to the world championship, the first official one was staged in 1936 at Wembley. But there were unofficial world championships held in France, Australia and even in England before that. However, these events do appear to have carried other titles but Press reports and other available information also carries the world championship title. Perhaps a good qualification is that the first officially recognised world championship was held in 1936 at Wembley Stadium. France is rather a talking point on oldtimespeedway@yahoogroups.com and a message search there may help in this research. Besides Fernand Meynier, another French world champion was Charles Bellisent, while various English and Australian riders are also credited as having won the title. Some famous names among them. These championships were held in the Buffalo Stadium in Paris. The last world championship to be held in France co-incidentally was in 1936 and won by the American rider Charles 'Pee Wee' Cullum, who rode for Belle Vue in the late 1940s. "
"It's about time the track was reinstated and the monstrosity that has been built where the pits once were situated is removed. Realistically it will never happen despite Bulls attendances dropping year on year and the club not being in a particularly strong financial position. Best us West Yorkshire speedway fans can hope for is a site for a new stadium and a rebirth like Leicester, Scunthorpe and Newport."
"WOW... sounds like a wonderful time and I wish I could have been there, I live in Greece now and see very little speedway... loved the Lions SO much, was taken to see it at 10 years old and myself and my family have been fans since, even to myself working for Kings Lynn back in 2001. The Current Glasgow manager is the brother of the guy I did music with for 4 Years - small world huh! Anyway, Love the info, photos and write up, it's great to see the riders again.... Thank You!"
Ray Davidson has responded to a recent visitor appeal to see some action pictures taken at the old Berwick circuit.
These were taken at Steve McDermott's testimonial in 1989 and when Arena Essex visited in (we think) 1986.
"When I went on a school visit to Paris in the early post war years I saw an advert for "Grand Reunion du Dirt Track" with Fernand Meynier, Champion du Monde. Not very accurate! Unfortunately I wasn't able to go to the meeting. Incidentally, my mother was at school in Bury, Lancs, with H R "Ginger" Lees. She said he was a horrible boy who she didn't like one bit! "
"Quite amazing that this Stadium could at one time hold over 100,000 people. Any idea as to what the biggest crowd might have been for a Speedway meeting."
"Does anybody out there recall a rainswept Wembley Stadium in the late 1940's or fifties when Wimbledon beat Wembley Lions 42 to 41 to inflict a rare defeat on the mighty Lions? Mike Erskine and Norman Parker team rode to Dons and I believe Mike got 11 points probably his finest performance ever. Please let me know if you recall this evening....got soaking wet in the downpour...no cover at Wembley in those days....what a dump it was "
"Howard, How could you go to the UK and not watch Speedway? That's the place to catch up with old friends at the tracks. Nothing like British Speedway.. "
"I supported the Dukes from opening day in 1965.The Shay stadium was an absolute rat-hole and remained so whilst speedway was there and for years after...but the actual track and the atmosphere were just brill. The rider Allan mentions going over the fence and only breaking a thumb was Maury Robinson, I was there, I thought he'd be dead!That came only a few weeks after Aussie Bert Kingston had fractured his skull on the same bend, I think Maury may have been replacing him in the side.Best memory for me was vs Coventry 1965, a 12th heat 5-1 by Eric Boocock and Eric Boothroyd to put us 2 up after being behind all match, maybe against Nigel B or at least Ron Mountford, then going on to win 40-38. Bliss! I still go to the Shay to watch Halifax Rugby League who now share with the soccer club. It is a tidy ground now, but could never ever take that super-duper banked track again! Odsal could, only 6 miles up the road, but that's another story."
"Interesting to see your correspondents comments on Splits post retirement activities.
Split at his best would be one of the riders I would most like to have seen ride, but didn't. I only just missed his final days with Ipswich (my first visit to speedway was about a week after Ipswich folded in 1962).
I can still recall Split making it big in the press when arrested for smuggling. I think he was driving a Triumph. I was quite amused, they were reported as finding several guns in the car, and he was with his fiancee of around 20 or more years (so they said).
What a character! Last I heard Split was alive and well in Spain (not I believe the costa del crime).
Terry Wogan seems to have been a big fan of Split incidently.
One of speedways loveable rogues."
Tracy Holmes catches up with 'Kid Bodie' himself. Howard emigrated to Sydney after his speedway career ended and brings us bang up to date with his life.
Charles McKay visited the famous Californian track earlier this year and got us these additional snaps. He reports that he found the racing to be a little disappointing on that particular night.
Here's a couple of old pals chatting about old times. It is of course Bobby Schwartz and Bruce Penhall. The picture is courtesy of Ivan Blacka and was taken a couple of years ago at Industry Hills Speedway.
"Fantastic. For fun I wrote Bill Kitchen and Morian Hansen. Their story came up. I saw them both fighting on Danish speedway circut, when I was 12 years old. I'm 74 now :-) "
"Great little article Tracy. The comment about Daniel McKinlay being cheated out of the 2001 NZ Title, I assume you mean the little ankle tap on Graham Hartshorne at Ruapuna. Had a perfect view of that one and it was a real 50/50. Yes there was contact, but enough to make a rider fall....??"
"Well well Steve what an impressive Garage of speedway Memorabilia you have ....a very nice collection .....how long has it taken you to collect all these valuable speedway goodies. I would love to look round your museum.....I expect you're still collecting"
"Quite amazing that this Stadium could at one time hold over 100,000 people. Any idea as to what the biggest crowd might have been for a Speedway meeting."
"It's good to see pictures of Old Meadowbank and a glimpse of Clockmill Road also. Saturday night was Monarchs' race night and the nearby St Margarets shed would be full to overflowing with steam locomotives over the weekend. The smoke and sulphur added to the methanol exhaust fumes from the bikes were a heady mix! The most thrilling meeting I recall was against Rayleigh Rockets in 1961. Top riders for Rayleigh were Reg Reeves and Stan Stevens, the match went to the last heat and I think Monarchs snatched a draw. Best ever visiting rider, Eric Boothroyd in my opinion. Bit of trivia...although demolition commenced in 1967, there is still a red brick retaining wall between the back straight and the rail line visible to this day f rom the main road at Meadowbank and also from Marionville. Although a ramshackle stadium, Old Meadowbank probably had the smoothest track in the country, so that there was little 'home' advantage to Monarchs. Ian Hoskins was a real showman and Don Cumming also was an entertaining announcer. Happy days..."
Kevin Foster:
"I think the sooner speedway cuts the costs to the riders the better - would that cut the cost to get into see it? The amount of money it costs to prepare the bikes are unreal, why not have engines from the factory tamper proof? No super cam shafts, valves etc. That would help the young up and coming riders. If you have the cash you will win the stash, look at the Poles, Swedes and Danes who have bikes and vans on most corners of the globe, our boys in England can't compete with that kind of money. Look back to the 1970s and early 80s the lap times at Newcastle were 71seconds, a fast lap was 66 secs. Everyone got the wow factor, why coz the bikes were not as fast and didn't blow up as often which meant it was not as expensive. Now a lap time at Newcastle is a wow 63 or under 62secs - then bang goes ya motors. Too many greedy folk I think."
Peter Colvin returns with his popular 'Snapshots of Yesteryear' series. The series features in the Glasgow Tigers programme during the season and on here during the following winter.
Nigel Jowett is establishing a new supporters club aimed at re-establishing defunct speedway clubs. Membership is open to all.
Thanks to Bob Andrews for this picture of Briggo and Janet watching at Rosebank Speedway recently. As you can see, Briggo is still picking up the odd injury.
Jacob Bagnell is hoping to get in tocuh with old pal Taffy Owen - Can You Help?
"Like Adrian, I have always been in awe of the professionalism and easy style of Leigh Adams. Over many years ha came across as Mr Nice Guy and I fully believe that he was just that. He was so in control on the track that he made the sport look safe. He had everything that a multi world champ ion needs except the nasty / do or die streak. If he had been more ruthless, he would probably have at least one world title to his name. How ironic that such a safe, professional rider should suffer such horrific injuries. Unfortunately, life is not guaranteed to be fair. On the plus side, one thing that Leigh demonstrated over his long career was determination - he would never lay down to a challenge and had an abundance of self belief. That trait is likely to be much to his advantage with the challenge he now faces. I sincerely hope that he will regain enough mobility to enjoy his family life without hinderance. On the subject of Ken McKinlay, I only really saw him in the later sixties and, then as an away rider to be respected. I do recall that, like Leigh, he had perfected all of the skills necessary to be a top line professional. He and his machine were always immaculately turned out, he was a consistently good gater, fast and knew how to defend when in front and mount an attack. Again, like Leigh, he did not attempt rash manoeuvres which were likely to cause un-necessary risk to himself and others. Also a true gentleman, by reputation."
"Great to see the report and pictures of the Paisley Lions reunion, because even though I wasn't a Paisley supporter, a lot of the riders rode for my team (Bradford) in the 70's. Sid and Mick, Al Bridgett, Mike Fullerton, Mike Fishwick all donned the Dukes race jacket (or whatever we were called at the time). Sid was involved in one of the worst crashes I ever saw at Odsal. He was having one of his best nights in his first 2 rides, when he missed the gate in his 3rd, and tried to take the opposing rider from the back on the 4th bend.The bikes got locked together and went straight on, at high speed, into the fence.Everyone feared the worst and it was something of a relief when we found out it was "only" a broken thigh. Had a real chuckle at the "tape measure" incident, I wish I'd been there! "
"Excellent article on one of my all-time favourite riders of my early teenage years. I seem to remember, one Friday at the Wick, that it was Barry Briggs who chased 'Cass' into the pits and hit him with his steel shoe, after they collided at Waterden Rd. This would appear to back up Tony's reference to a clash with Mike Gardner, although this must have been at Cradley, as I don't remember it happening at Hackney. It would be nice to put the story to bed, and for someone to be able to write definitively about whether Garry is still alive or not. Hopefully he is, a great entertainer in the greatest sport on earth."
"Remember those days well, I used to help with the track with my father when Bob Humphreys had it ( Bob would remember me as tanker drivers boy ) then after Bob closed, we had the Mike Barker era . Well the names he would call me esp when I was riding my bike! Oh to take that old Sherpa van of his round the track again. Fun days with the Barkers as for some of the riders I recall - John Perry, Trever Edwards, Fraser Southerland plus Mick's boys. Those were my fun days. I can only admire Terry for trying to keep MK going."
"Nice to see the piece on John. I never went to one of his meetings, but I did take Speedway Star each week (for more than 30 years) and followed what he and a couple of others were doing with the Metropolitan League. I had never been to Ipswich (except for a stock car event) at the time that John revived the venue which had closed mid-season in 1962.
The merging of the National and Provincial leagues in 1965 was, arguably (together with the formation of the Provincial League itself), one of the two most important domestic speedway events of the past 60 years. It did, however, remove the lower league, and left precious little opportunity for the youngsters to get a grounding of proper racing. John was a great supporter of the sport, and deserves more recognition. It was a shame that he didn't take a team into Division 2 in 1968. I have great respect for Johns efforts, well done John."
"Excellent picture of two great riders. Ivor was my first 'hero' of the Heathens, great to watch, and as you say very difficult to pass once he got in front. Many happy memories of him riding for Cradley."
"Interesting article - I've asked myself the same question quite a few times in the last 5 years. Yes, there are lots of competing entertainment these days, and I'm not sure that price is the main issue, but I agree with one point, and that is too many people (and this is probably increasing every year) just don't know what speedway is. Where are the new fans coming from - mostly from existing families and friends that already go I would imagine.
This may be controversial, but I don't think it's good value for money, compared with another sport that speedway often shares stadia with. How much actual track action is there at speedway compared with stock car racing - a much, much smaller percentage at speedway. I don't think speedway is going anywhere fast in the UK - things have moved on and the baton has been passed to Poland et al."
"I used to do the first aid at the practice track, often the only one in the middle in all weathers, good times!Ccan anyone remember the ex rider's name that use to run the days practice meetings? I never was any good with names, I knew all the regular "Practicers" but can't tell you any of their names."
Bob Humphreys used to be the instructor at Elfield.
Peter selects his favourite seven of all time. Peter is an Aussie and that's reflected in the selection he has made.
Jim Blanchard is trying to identify some riders in photographs he took at a Mildenhall training session in 1980. He knows that Craig Featherby is the rider in pictures 8, 9, 10 and 18. See the pictures on his website.
Bryan Horsnell is looking for some programmes from Ipswich's 1959 season - Can You Help?
Brian Bailey would like a copy of the 1994 NLRC programme - Can You Help?
"Fantastic little track, had many great nights at the Lough. Shielfield is not a patch on the Lough for racing. Does anybody have anymore pictures of the Lough when it was an active stadium?"
"Very impressive Steve. Florida is a very nice part of the world to have a museum of speedway too! Maybe one day me and my wife could get over there and take a better look...close up!"
"Hi Tony. What a great read glad to see you are still putting pen to paper,how about doing something on Split Waterman the 1950s wide-boy,after his speedway racing was over he reputably went into gold smuggling. "
"Fascinating to read the 'fantasy' details of the World Final That Never Was(1939), 72 years on. What a pity an 'original' programme from the 1939 Final hasn't surfaced after all this time. It must have been compiled and, probably, printed before War was declared and even if they were alll pulped, someone somewhere must have a 'proof' copy hidden or stashed away, don't you think? At least one of the original 1939 World Final tickets has survived, which was reported in VINTAGE SPEEDWAY Vol.10 No.1 Spring 2002 (pages 32/33). I wonder if any others have found their way into collections during the past 10 years? If you have got one of the original 1939 programes - or know of somebody who has - let us all know, please! "
"i remember George Hunter coming to my house round about 1979, and heard him saying to my dad (Chic Todd), that Mike Parker was a bastard and was the reason he left Wolves. I never knew there was that much of a hatred there !"
"Funny enough I work with his son the one and only Adrian Mckinlay he often tells me about his father of course being an avid West ham fan in football Ken sure went to the right team in Speedway."
"In a lifetime of watching speedway I don't think any rider has excited me the way Ken McKinlay did. To watch him was to watch an absolute master-craftsman at work. Only Leigh Adams can be spoken of in the same breath when when we discuss 100% immaculate machinery and immaculate riding styles.
Apart from the things mentioned in Dudley's article Ken was a master tactician who won races with his brain. The classic McKinlay tactic was to sit slightly behind and outside an opponent until the final bend then as the opponent drifted wide to try to shut Ken out on the final run in to the finish, Ken would switch lines in the blink of an eye an slip through on the inside to take the win. He was also the best team rider I have ever seen. These days we tend to measure a riders greatness by his World Championships and Ken was fractionally below that level but as a captain and a team man he ranks among the very best."
"Firstly to the person who wrote this article, thankyou very much! Jack is my grandfather, I never met him and have only heard a very few stories of him from my Nanna (Sheila Biggs). It's fantastic to find a little more about his success and my family history. If anyone would like to share any stories or memories about my grandad Jackie Biggs, please email me and let me know. redmanj@optusnet.com.au"
"Ah nostalgia! In the late fifties / early sixties, I lived nearby in Marionville Road, and I used to go regularly to both the stock car racing and the speedway at Meadowbank Stadium. In fact I could see - and hear - the stadium from my bedroom window. I also had (and wish I still had!) my Monarchs Supporters Club badge, with four year-bars.
Not all good memories, though - Health & Safety and the lawyers nowadays would have a field day with the "safety" arrangements at the stadium at that time. In September 1956 (aged 10) when at a stock car event there, I was hit in the face by a largish piece of a black Ford V8 Pilot that was involved in a collision with another car on the south-west bend of the stadium and which then part-disintegrated, and I came within quarter of an inch of losing my left eye. I still have the scar and chipped eyesocket bone as a permanent memory. Nowadays the Strict Liability laws and a hotshot injury lawyer would really go to town on a case like that, but in 1956 I just got my 15 minutes of fame in the local evening paper, had a week in Leith Hospital, and then got on with my life. Nice to see the old photos, though."
"My dad took me as a nipper in the late 60s early 70s. Boocock, Boothroyd & Younghusband - fantastic Saturday nights :-) The smell of the fuel the noise and the grit in your face! Always remember a rider flying over the fence and onto the concrete terracing at the north end - he ended up with concussion and a broke thumb!"
"This is where it all started for me. My dad first took me to see Bernie Persson and the rest of the Heathens team as a five year old. So many fantastic memories of the place and the teams that rode there. After all these years it still hurts to think that the track is no longer there. Hopefully one day another speedway venue will appear in the local area. If its half as good as Dudley Wood was it will be something special. Ommer Um!"
"For sure it was not Colin Horton's fault. He took on an ailing club with no fans, he tried to turn it round like he did with the Panthers but like the Panthers, Oxford had no fans. I know Colin well and I know about the sleepless nights he had and the threats from people who know nothing about the hard work and money pumped into both clubs, you back stabbers should bow your heads in shame. I knew nothing about speedway until I met Colin and I have never met anyone who put his personal wealth into these clubs for no thanks from the fans. Short memories I think. Even I remember that win a few years back, you fans wanted to know him then, that's all I have to say"
"My wife,Julie, and I met Neil on a number of occasions, most noteably at Peterborough after a meeting. He talked to us about track preparation and tyres in a way that showed his depth of knowledge of speedway and his concern for the sport and riders. A true gentleman of whom we can say that we feel the better for having known him."
"What an insult to the Speedway Fans of Cradley. They take away one of the best tracks in Britain then they name a street after it. Come on spare us please."
"Thank you for your insight on dad Dudley. A few things I would like to add on a personal level that is a step away from his league career in England and Scotland. Dad won individual honours that I can't even begin to get my head around, it is to be remembered that he raced from '49 to '75 so it is impossible to tally everything that he acheived.
One thing I do know is that he won the Midland Riders championship 3 times, the first rider to do so and I also know that was a big deal to him. His career in australia from '52 to '72 is also too big for me to comprehend. He won state titles here and also the Australian solo championship in '64 with places in both formats on other occasions. Then there is the England/GB and Lions stuff to consider, he captained and managed those too. Sit down with Nigel Boocock, I think himself and Dingle Brown would give you a true insight into dad, along with countless others.
My biggest thrills are dad collecting me from school one day in Perth (Western Australia) with the jap in the back of the pick up, it was a friday afternoon and we were going straight to the big Claremont circuit for the evenings racing, it was 1971 and I was 8 years old and dad was swamped by the entire school! Chaos... another nice thing that happened a few years ago was John Titman locating the '64 Australian solo championship trophy and returning it to my brother John.
I also have vivid memories of Scunthorpe in the early mid 70s, dad/us driving into the Q.P. stadium with the old jap hanging out off the mercedes 220s and being swamped by fans. Even in later years when we went to Coventry and Cradley as spectators I could never quite get my head around the amount of people who just wanted to say hello to dad, shake his hand and just to think they had seen him. I understand now why people love speedway so much. It's done a lot for a lot of different people, riders and fans alike. Thanks again."
Organiser Bill Elliot reports from the recent reunion of the Paisley Lions. Many of the former favourites were able to attend in person, or join in via the wonders of Skype. Pictures are courtesy of Fiona Crawford.
Details of Kelvin Lapworth's latest project - this time providing opportunities for young British riders with the hope they'll progress to National League standard. The Mercia Vikings will be competing in the Midland Junior League and need your help.
Tony McDonald tells us what we can expect to find in the winter edition of the excellent Classic Speedway magazine.
Keith Hanley has copies of the London Speedway Reporter which he'd like to know more about and which he'd take offers for - Can You Help?
'THE VOICE', No.43 'Friends of Speedway (a non-profit making organisation who are proud to sponsor the British Youth Championship - formerly the Under 15's) are pleased to
announce the 43rd edition of their magazine the Voice which is packed full of interest and enjoyment. This issue is again 32 pages - a real bumper issue that will
keep your interest for hours!
In this issue David Telfer gives his views on many aspects of speedway including his ratings on Sky Sports matches; Annette Maybach gives her thoughts on it too; John Chaplin
writes an Obituary on Ron How; Sue Towner ponders on a rule change on points and a report of the Youth meeting at Iwade; Charles Mckay gives a view on fixtures over
the three leagues plus one on Health and Safety; Roy Delaney gives the facts on Dicky Case; the Editor gives a review of the Sixth California Reunion and Bert Harkins
an insight to the Celebration of Speedway next year and much more!
Available from Friends of Speedway, 117 Church Lane, Chessington, Surrey KT9 2DP.
Please send your cheque for £10 made out to the above for four issues of the Voice to Stuart Towner at the above address or ring 0208-397 6599 for more information'.
"Thanks for the information on the London Fours, filled in a gap in my infomation, will correct my History of the Hammers."
Cary Cotterman:
"Thanks to Ivan Blacka for the excellent pictures from the recent USA vs. Rest of the World meeting in California. The action photo, in particular, was like a trip to the past. Too many speedway pictures today are taken from outside the fence, with a shutter speed so fast that the tyre treads and spokes are frozen as thought the riders are in stationary poses (see the Speedway Grand Prix website for endless examples). It was quite a treat to see Ivan's photo, taken from the centre green, with the wheels and background blurred just enough to give a sense of motion and speed. This is the way most speedway pictures used to look. The prominent national flags on the riders' body colours, so rare today, provide a final touch of nostalgia. "
"Dudley, the defining article on HurriKen-I didn't see him at his peak, but I certainly remember him in his later years as a West Ham Hammer, and then as a Scunthorpe Saint, at all times leaving a team all the better for his time as a member of it!"
"How nice to see the photos of Mildenhall. Good stadium.
I have only been there once or twice but I always have a soft spot for them and their 'potato patch'.
Amazing to think that the whole thing came about by a few riders illegally using a bit of derelict land for practice when a crowd, and then burger vans, began to turn up.
It saddened me that Mildenhall have bumped along the very bottom of speedway in recent years, with a season with no wins at all, and mid season withdrawal.
This years revival, initially involving one time Ipswich rider Kevin Jolly and leading to the involvement of Chris Louis and Michael Lee, has been great to see. For the first time in 50 years I actually heard a promoter admit to making a profit!
A great side and clearly a well run promotion, who almost pulled off the National League double. Well done to all. By the look of the video clips the fans in the fens clearly appreciate a decent team and organisation.
Let us hope that the glory years will return at West Row. Mildenhall is a nice little town, that obviously appreciates its speedway."
Darren has been following the King's Lynn Stars for nearly 30 years. Here he recalls the men who have made the biggest impression on him in that time - including the one and only Henka.
Thanks to Dave Pearson for these pictures of Dudley Wood, former home of the Cradley Heathens. Dave took these pictures in 1977 and 2001. Dave's son Nigel was the announcer at the track when it closed.
This great new painting of Chris Holder and Darcy Ward is the latest work from Jim Blanchard. You can find out how to get your copy - surely an ideal Xmas present for any fan of the Aussies - from Jim's website.
New website Scottish Open Licence Seasons has details of short-lived ventures at Ayr, Ashfield, Glasgow, Motherwell, Cowdenbeath and Newtongrange. Definitely worth a visit if you're interested in the history of speedway.
" Deep in the 909, Berdoo Speedway - IMS. This track is lots of fun to ride.The crew really keeps it up to par and makes it a very enjoyable place to be. With Flanders on the mic calling the meet as it unfolds, this it good old American speedway at it's best. You can find some of the fastest American riders there any friday night during the summer months! "
"Thank you for remembering Ron How. I first saw him riding when I was a teenager but later, living in Buckinghamshire, I happened into his pub where I became a regular for fifty years. He was, by a mile, the best landlord I have ever known, and in sixty years drinking there have been a few, but above all he was a great man who treated everybody in exactly the same warm way. His funeral was, as he would have wished, a happy affair as everybody brought back their memories of this much loved wonderful man."
Dudley Jones shares his memories of the most successful Scottish rider of all time - looking particularly at his career in the middle of the swinging sixties.
Pictures of West Row - the home of the Mildenhall Fen Tigers - courtesy of regular contributor Brian Longman.
We've had to add a new section to our links page to include Speedway BG - the premier source for info on Bulgarian speedway. It's not in English so perhaps of limited use to most.
A couple of pictures from the recent USA v Rest of the World meeting. The first is a group shot of all the riders. The second shows Lewis Bridger battling with Bobby Schwartz with Brian Yarrow chasing the pair. Thanks to Ivan Blacka for the pictures. For the record, the USA won 56 - 53.
"Dear Sir The article is not quite correct, I saw the meeting the London fours on 15.10.71 at Hackney . The final result was Hackney 33 Winbledon 24 West Ham 23 and my team the Wembley Lions 17. But I will never forget the fantastic last race win by Sverre Harrfeldt."
"As a kid I would spend much of my time at Indian dunes California . It was a great place to practice and see great riders like the Bass bros. I would like to read more about them as information is limited."
"Steve, yer a leg-end bud. I'm working on mine as we speak."
David Briggs:
"Whenever I'm chatting with friends or people I meet through my work, football will often crop up in conversation, I'm not a soccer fan and I always mention that I'm a lifelong fan of Speedway Racing. Very often the person with whom I'm chatting with will remark "Oh speedway! I used to go to....( it was West Ham this past weekend) Oh yes, the smell!!" Then I have to explain that the smell has long gone from the Speedway Stadia, Castrol don't make R anymore, the racers all use synthetic oils these days, and unfortunately those oils don't give off that magical and addictive aroma. It's obvious to me that the smell of Castrol R was a very important ingredient in the whole speedway experience. I'm wondering if some enterprising entrepreneur could come up with the magic ingredient that produced the R aroma. I've tried burning castor oil without success. I'm sure that if the smell of burning Castrol R could be re-introduced to speedway meetings it could even attract more enthusiasts through the turnstiles. OK I expect to get lambasted as an old fart living in the past, but many ex speedway go-ers have expressed the same sentiment to me over the years."
Fred Atkins:
"I have not always been a fan of Matt Ford but I hope he can keep Chris & Darcy together watching them ride is a delight. And as someone a fan for 62 years I have seen them all and I say they are in the top 3 for team riding.So once again good luck Matt Poole, would not be the same without them."
Philip Dalling concludes his short series on unsung promoters from the sixties - this time looking at the contribution made by John Pilblad, who promoted at both Weymouth and Ipswich.
Pictures of IMS speedway in Southern California. The pictures are courtesy of Charles McKay who observes that Albert Hammond must have been correct about the weather in that neck of the woods as the announcers 'box' has no walls or roof.
Dave selects his Wolverhampton Wolves Dream Team - based on his 50 years watching the racing at Monmore Green.
Do you have video or old cine footage (home or away) and any unusual memorabilia items featuring Hackney, West Ham and Rayleigh for possible use on a series of forthcoming Defunct Track DVDs by Retro Speedway?
Please email what you have to offer to Tony McDonald at editorial@retro-speedway.com or phone 01708 734 502
Brian Bailey is looking for programmes from the 1935 Star Championship and 1960 PLRC - Can You Help?
"i was the junior at Park Motorcycles in Eastbourne who sponsored Roger and he prepared his bikes in their workshops. I last saw Rog in 2007 whe he visited our shores.I reconised his face but couldn't remember his name after 20 odd years but once he said who he was it all came back. A truly nice guy. My boss is flying to NZ in Feb 2012 to visit Roger, Jill and family and also his great friend Richard Hamilton.."
Keith Cotter:
"A Cradley supporter from the 60's and now a supporter of the re-born Heathens. I have only just found your site and would like to say how pleased I am that I have done so. Only read a couple of articles and flicked through the Stadia Pix at present but from what I have seen I know I am going to enjoy visiting on a regular basis."
"It's nice hear about Stanley track back in the fiftys. I would go with my dad. Peter Craven would always be at Charlie Oates motorbike shop most Sundays. Peter would take us to Ainsdale Beach. I also remember he bought a brand new Jowett Jupiter Bright. Sadly he died young, doing the thing he loved "
"I have just read the article on the Provincial League and the high praise heaped on Mike Parker re the money paid by him to the riders. I rode at Liverpool in
1961, I had two second half rides and won both of them, after the meeting I went to Mike Parker's office to get paid and the door was slmmed shut in my face
and he refused to pay me for the two wins. There were other riders there banging on the door to get paid, one of them told me that it was like this every week.
So I left and drove through the night back to London. I never did get any money from Parker. I again met Parker when i was riding for Wolverhampton, I asked Mike
if he could loan me 300 pounds so I could buy a new set of leathers and a new bike. I would pay back the loan plus the bank interest. His answer was 'Jim, if you
were scoring ten points a meeting I would lend you the money'. My reply was 'lend me the money and I will score ten points a meeting'. He said 'how do I know you will
score ten points a meeting'. I replied 'lend me the money and you will get your answer'. He flatly refused to lend me the money. He then asked me to move to
Wolverhampton and look after the track for him. I turned him down flat. I had to pack up speedway because I could not afford to pay for the bike and leathers
that I so desperatley needed to stay in the sport. Have any other readers got any stories about Mike Parker good or bad that they would like to share with us?
Retro-Speedway are back with another DVD reflecting on the Golden Years of seventies and eighties speedway. This time Malcolm Simmons gives us the lowdown on the best Brits of the era - the ones he raced with and against.
Stuart Towner reports from the recent reunion of California Poppies riders and supporters.
Some more info on the above pictures from John Owen:
"Re photo of boy on speedway bike. Others on the photo are Dave Tate holding baby behind me, my little sister Judy behind Tony (Hawkeye) Hurren in hat. Chap wearing tie is Dave Farley and in front of Tony is my cousin Maria. Only incorrect fact was that I married Les Owen,s neice not his daughter. It was my idea to get Colin Pratt to open the fete at my sisters school and Len Silver set it up. It was the record crowd the school ever got for a fete! Happy days. Dave Tate and I were on the supporters club committee at the time."
Robert Waterfield is after some vintage Longtrack videos - Can You Help?
If you've visited Monmore Green then you'll be familiar with the energetic presentation style of Porky the resident mic man. Sometimes things don't always go to plan - check out this YouTube video.
Another picture courtesy of Ivan Blacka - showing Boogaloo Schwartz geared up for action at the age of 55. Bobby recently set the record for being the oldest rider to compete in the Costa Mesa Nationals. Thanks to photographer Paul Flanders.
"Expecting to see Alan "Doc" Bridgett at the Paisley Lions Reunion on 22 Oct. These days Doc is renowned as one of the best track curators of his time but in my era he was prepared to do a 500 mile round trip each weekend (plus away meetings) for the Paisley Lions, which in my book made him a very special guy. These days, some riders get a nosebleed if they have to drive more than an hour to get to some tracks! "
"Ken Mckinlay, I was always a fan of Ken and always loved the sound from his bikes. They always sounded so crisp and in tune. I support Kings Lynn and Ken cam to three individual meets one year and won the lot!! When pushed off from the pits to start his bike, Ken would always pull both his gloves up to make sure they were on ok and then put both hands each side of his crash helmet to adjust his goggles. I still have a picture of Ken wearing his West Ham race jacket and will always remember him with affection. He was a speedway star!"
"It sadly looks like Gosford Speedway might be closing down soon through that old bug bear.....money. The track in located in the Gosford Showground and inside the Gosford Greyhound track (unlike the UK where there are more than a few speedway tracks inside dog tracks, this is the only one of its kind in Oz I believe). But it costs the promoter about $1400 just to hire the venue for a meeting and unless its a national or NSW state title meeting, the gate takings don't nearly compensate just the hire fee let alone prize money, appearance fee's, travel money etc because they struggle to get even 1,000 spectators to a regular meeting. So as of August 2011, its not known if this track will operate in 2011/12."
"Thanks for sharing your wonderful collection Steve. Also looking forward to meeting you in person when you come over to the Ellesmere Port Gunners reunion as my guest. Also one of my other guests is Karl Fiala."
"Re Coventry, they were the first team ever to race in a leauge Speedway Match in London. It was in 1929 and the match againts West Ham was billed as an Inter-track Challange. The team was called Coventry City. It was six-heat match with West Ham winning 31-19. West Ham racing colours was white, while Coventry was described as Red & Green. Can any old Coventry fans confirm this match or the r acing Colours?"
"The top two photos and possibly the third photo were not taken at the time of speedway. They were taken when Tamworth stadium was used for greyhound racing and stock car racing."
Philip Dalling turns the spotlight on some of the individuals who made the Provincial League possible, but who never got the recognition they deserved. In this first instalment he looks at the contribution that rider Ted Connor made.
The Speedway Reseacher website is back with a new look and Matt Jackson is now the man responsible for that side of the operation - continuing the good work done by Ron "Too Small" McNeil in recent years, If you're unfamiliar with the magazine that it supports, then this brief overview will be of interest.
The Paisley Lions reunion is just over a week away, but it's not too late to snap up a ticket. Full details on our Paisley Reunion page.
Regular visitors may recall we recently featured some feedback written in Norwegian on Basse Hveem. We hoped someone may have been able to translate it and former Stoke rider Bobby Duncan came up trumps. The comment says:
"I saw Leif 'Basse' Hveem become Nordic Longtrack champion at Fyns Horsetrack on the 25 September 1949. I was myself 8 years old and the experience made an enormous impression on me, and helped me keep my interest for Speedway and Longtrack my whole life. At that time I lived in Nyborg and i remember already then that Basse Hveem was a living Legend. Many that had never seen a motorcycle race knew his name."
Thanks Bobby! Bobby still takes part in the odd meeting in Norway and finished 9th in the Norwegian championship this year, His outings are limited as his closest track is a 15 hour drive away, Here's a 2011 action shot of him.
"I have to correct the info in my previous comment. The Sydney Showground at Homebush (the 2000 Olympic Baseball Stadium) is not the same length as the old Showground. The old one was 509m (557 yards) while the new showground is about the same length as the Ekka (Brisbane Exhibition Ground) at 450m (492 yards)."
"May I comment once again on the good work of this site. As you all know I organised the Ellesmere Port Gunners reunion last year. Well i have organised another one for the 12th November 2011. Tickets are on sale now priced at £4.00 or £5.00 on the door with all proceeds going to Joe Owen this year. It is being held at the same club as last year which is the Greyhound next door to the old stadium. Anyone wanting to come along and have a good night can contact me on 0151 356 4931. "
"It is mentioned in the article on Swagman that Ron Howe was the stunt man for Dirk Bogard.I can say with some confidence that it was my father Bill Weston who did that job. I still have some publicity photos somewhere, taken with them together with my father made up to look like him. He told some great stories about the film."
"My father speedway raced at Hanomag in 1945 (whilst waiting for demob) and I have a wealth of pictures of the races. In honesty I think the author of this book would like to see my pics! Mind you it's a bit late now, it having been published :) By the way, if you have the book, check the Hanomag chapter - my dad's race number was 3."
"Just like going back in the Past, I was with Mike Parker Promotions as General Manager when Powederhall started up. Does anybody know what happened to Alan Bridgett?"
Alan 'Doc' Bridgett is of course General Manager of the Monarchs at Armadale.
Speedway lost one of its finest men this week with the passing of Neil Street. By way of a tribute we publish this extract from Jeff Scott's Showered in Shale Book, recalling the day in 2006 when Jeff met Neil for the first time.
Tim started out as a Southampton fan but has followed the Peterborough Panthers in recent years. Here he selects seven riders from across the many decades
he's been a speedway fan.
Thanks to Ivan Blacka for this picture of a couple of legends from different fields meeting up. It's believed that Robert Plant may have been spotted
at Cradley and Wolves in the past. Can anyone confirm?
Derek Hindle is trying to track down a photograph of the Wimbledon Dons side of 1951 or 1952 - Can You Help?
Former rider Jim Chalkley is looking for a couple of programmes from 1961 - Can You Help?
This Sunday (9th October) sees the 6th California Speedway reunion being staged at California Country Park in Wokingham. It runs from 11am until 4pm and
the postcode for your sat nav is RG40 4HT. Further details from Stuart Towner on 0208-397 6599 or stuart.towner@blueyonder.co.uk
Thanks to Graeme Frost for pointing out a problem with one of the links on the site last week. Error reports, comments and contributions are always welcomed.
"1989 World Cup Final, September 17, Bradford. 1st England. Kelvin
Tatum, Simon Wigg, Jeremy Doncaster, Paul Thorp and SIMON CROSS. Yes, he may only have lasted one quater of a lap, caught up in the Gundersen crash but Simon Cross
is a World Cup Gold Medalist. Does that he did in fact win a World Title? YES SIR !!!"
"Sad to hear The Boulevard has been torn down. Having never been outside
of Australia I can't admit to going there but saw it on TV and video enough with Australian Rugby League Kangaroo Tours and the old Yorkshire TV Trophy meetings. Another
old stadium gone."
"I do remember Ivan Mauger pulling out of heat of the BLRC at Belle Vue. Looking
back through my old programmes suggests it was 1972 in his fourth ride. Memory plays tricks because I thought he'd pulled out in his first race, yet he'd won his first two
and suffered an engine failure in his third (if that is indeed what it was). I recall the protest being about the seats allocated to riders' wives at the event. "
"May I take this opportunity in wishing the organisers a really good night
on their reunion. I am the organiser of the Ellesmere Port Gunners reunion and we had a great night last year and we will be doing the same again on the 12th November.
Good luck guys."
"Re Brandon Stadium - True it was not the home of Coventry Bees
Speedway Team until 1948. The Stadium is however the same one that staged pre war Speedway from 29th September 1928, and hosted the Pre War Coventry team 1929-1933 and
then held Non League meetings in 1934 and 1936 before being used for Midget Car Racing 1937-1939."
"The question that arose last night was "whose bike was it that hung from the wall in
the Aces pub?". For some reason one opinion was that it was a Scandinavian rider who had donated it, and who was presumably riding for Belle Vue at the time. The person
who reckoned this also thought that it was a rider who rode at the new track, although having consulted a 1988 Speedway Star I can't find any evidence of such a rider."
Dudley Jones reacts to news that the future of Newport is again in doubt and appeals for locals to support the Wasps.
Tony Hurren and Seve Haire shed some light on the above pictures we featured a fortnight ago:
Tony Said: "The chap holding on to the speedway bike is Johnny Owen, a long-time Hackney supporter; the guy with the beard and specs is the programme
columnist Hawkeye."
Seve Said: "The chap with the thick glasses and half beard was none other than 'Hawkeye' who wrote the Hawkeye column in the programme and
was one of Len Silver major backroom staff. The last time I saw him was a couple of years ago when he took 'Snowy' Beattie, who had been the Hackney Supporters Club
President from when Harringey closed down, over to Rye House for a day out from his care home. The only other one from that picture I knew was the chap on the left with
the thick mop of black hair, his name being Johnny Owen, a Hackney supporter. He later moved to Coventry and married Les Owen's, the Ex-Coventry speedway rider's daughter.
The last time having seen him at the Hackney Re-union over at Paradise Wildlife Park."
These fabulous figures are available from Yesteryear Miniatures along with
many others based on the speedway teams of 1971. Worth a look, even if you're not interested in owning one
"The motorcycle track at the Motorplex is the inner track seen in the
photo's. Its approximately 460m in length (the outer car track is 520m), keeping in tradition with tracks in Western Australia generally being larger than other Aussie
tracks (the old Claremont Speedway was 550m in length)."
"No GUNDER THE WUNDER? Maybe you were too young? You should
ask your dad about him, took over from Penhall as number one and in my opinion amuch better rider and more loyal to the club!!"
"I HATE YOU, until I looked at your photos I didnt realise how much I
missed the Moto Parc, every Tuesday about 4 the seagulls would start to arrive in anticipation of a free feed as soon as it got light on Wednesday morning. How can a
seagull get a bin bag out of a 45 gallon drum, well they used to every week until we put a board over the top. With the floodlit cliffs and the skytracker wheel of light
around the cliff face as well it certainly created an atmosphere, we had to tell air traffic control about the skytracker because straight up it would go 14 miles!!! Had some
wonderful times with some good people, shame it all fell apart in the end. Work is ongoing for a new location, lets hope they are successful."
"The Cradley photo is not taken from turn 3 as Mike Willis states, it is
actually taken from the middle of turn 1 and 2. The pits are situated in the centre of the picture on turns 3 and 4, and the green building to the right is the changing
rooms. To the left of the ambulance you can see the green fence behind which is the infamous Scotsmans Hill from which vantage point you could stand outside the stadium
and watch the racing for free!"
"I went to the last meeting at Premier League level
against Arena Essex. The crowd was very poor, no more than 300. The stadium was situated in the middle of nowhere with limited public transport links."
"Jeg så Leif Basse Hveem blive nordisk mester i langbaneløb,
på Fyns Væddeløbebane d. 25/9 1949. Jeg var selv da 8 år gammel, og den oplevelse gjorde et enort indtryk på mig, og var med til at jeg har bevaret min interesse for
speedway og 1000 m. hele mit liv. Dengang boede jeg i Nyborg, og jeg husker at allerede da, var Basse Hveem en levende legende. Mange som aldrig havde set et motorcykelløb,
kendte hans navn. "
Former rider and speedway academic David Walsh returns with another of his poems. This one will strike a chord with many of you, particularly
those who dislike some of the more recent rule changes.
We're delighted to bring you a chance to win a copy of Philip Dalling's new book. Simply identify the man pictured with Tommy Price and Peter Craven and you'll be
entered into a random draw to select a winner.
Philip's new book covers the sport's first 40 years and has more than 200 pictures.
Last week we featured a comment from George Wood who used to be mascot at Long Eaton. George once had a picture of him with Ove Fundin but had lost it at some
point over the years. That rang a bell with Philip Dalling who remembered receiving such a picture from Mike Kemp. Thanks to Philip and Mike we were able to forward the
above pictures to George.
A campaign has been launched to establish a permanent Bradford Speedway Museum. More details can be found on their Facebook page.
"Nice article on Jack. He was living in a nursing home in
the picturesque village of Gainford near Darlington in County Durham. One of our sponsors at Redcar used to deliver cars to Jack's home there. He was a right character
and was reluctant to talk about his pre-war dirt track career. The sponsor has been to Redcar on several occasions and only discovered shortly before Jack died he had been
an international speedway rider. Jack had a taste for top of the range cars being driven at high speed even in advancing years. "
"Interesting pics of Marine Gardens. The site is now a bus
garage (built in 1958). The spectator banking on the right of the pic is still there, now grassed over and the location of the track is now the car park. The houses in
the background are still there (King's Road). I worked as a driver there from 1975 to 1997. "
"Nice photos, the second one looks like the fans are on the beach at
Southend-on-Sea in Summer!! On a cold early season evening , the wind down the back straight is more like Winter in Sibera! This weeks (5-11th September) Time-out mag has an
item on Lakeside in it"
"A really fantastic article by Tracy Holmes and a brilliant summary of
_the_ contest that everyone came to see during a 10 year period. I don't think there's been quite the same anticipation of such a contest since the Mauger vs. Olsen clashes.
It also covered quite welll 'the changing of the guard' to a new group of younger top riders, Nielsen, Gundersen, Penhall etc. Mind you, my dad never forgave Ivan when during
a mid-70's BLRC at Hyde Road, he pulled out of a race with Ole on the first bend as a protest about something he wasn't happy about - anyone else remember that?
Look forward to further musings from Tracy."
"Sadly the junior track is no more at Riverview Speedway. It was
replaced in 2006 with a burnout pad. The track hosted the 1988 and 2001 Australian Championships won by Phil Crump (dad of Jason) and Todd Wiltshire respectively. Riverview
opened in 1958 but sadly doesn't host bikes on a regular basis since the introduction of clay to the surface when the track was lengthened from 300 to 360m in 1999. Bikes do
still appear at the track but not at every meeting like they used to....pity really."
Thanks to Peter Hunter for these snaps of this track in Adelaide, South Australia. It's not a regular speedway venue but many of the sport's big names
have ridden there over the years.
Something a little different this week, a selection of pictures taken by Jeff Scott at last Sunday's meeting at Sittingbourne. This
was the fifth round of this year's British Under 15 Championship. The pictures concentrate on the off-track activity rather than on the racing itself.
Adam started his life as a Cradley Heathen but now splits his affections between Coventry and Dudley. He's selected both Bees and Heathens in his all-time top team.
Ian Goold says:
"Recently I came across my 5 minutes of fame! At a Leytonstone fete in 1969, I was in the right place at the right time & ended up in the
local newspapers sat astride a speedway bike provided by Hackney. I think the gentleman holding onto the back of the bike & the one with the beard were Hackney staff -
anyone recognize them? I was the centre of attention at school the following week!"
You can click on the pictures above to get a better view. Anyone remember these chaps?
This year's Ellesmere Port Gunners reunion will be held on 12th November at 'The Greyhound' (next door to the old track). Tickets are £4 in advance
or £5 on the door. Special guest is American gladiator - Cobra. Further details from Keith Dwyer on 0151 356 4931 or keithdwyer@hotmail.co.uk
"I first saw Ken when he was a Coventry 'Bee'. I realized immediately that
he was not just a high scorer, but a class act. Indeed, I cannot think of a more stylish rider. I supported West Ham from 1966 until I moved north in 1968, so saw much of Ken.
He really was a great scorer, team rider and captain of the re-born Hammers. He seemed to be a likeable chap too.
I saw him ride in a couple of World Championships, and was there hoping that he would win. I am sure that Ken was good enough, but perhaps his will to win was a little less
than some other competitors.
Nonetheless, he had a distinguished international career, and deserves a place amongst our all time greats."
"Arunga Park Speedway hosted the 1991 Australian Speedway
Championship won by current (2011) Australian team manager Craig Boyce (his 1st Aussie title)."
"Olle Nygren, green scarf, white boots, probably one of
the best things to come out of Scandinavia since Carlsberg. Great captain, very happy to give advice to younger riders, great team rider. Flamboyant and very exciting
to watch. A real credit to speedway. Bring back the Dons!!"
"Tracy, I too have never forgiven Bruce for quitting
when he did. I was a Cradley Heath supporter and for nearly 20 years we had had with dreadful teams. In fact the Wolves fans called the Heathens the Spoons because
we always finished bottom of the league-but the fact we still supported then shows how loyal speedway supporters are!. Anyway, we were league champs in 1981 and looked
ike being champs again in 1982 and it was really great after years of watching rubbish (no offence to the riders!). We were top by a few points when Penhall quit
with a few meetings to go. How do you replace a rider with an 11+ average-answer-you can't. So we were overhauled and didn't win the league. Penhall quit to make
sure he won the World Championship as his Hollywood career depended on it. Anyway, we won again in 1983 without him-with a team often described as the greatest speedway
team ever (total average was 63.00). He went on to become a champion in several other sports and has been described as the man who was too big for speedway. He was
without doubt the best rider I ever saw at Dudley Wood and was a big loss to the sport in general. The best you can say I suppose is that he followed his dream and
you can't really argue with that. "
"The Cradley Heath photo is taken from the start of Turn 3 (or the pits
bend as we used to know it). The pits are just out of shot on the right of the picture. In the days I used to attend Dudley Wood regularly, the roof over the pits was
made out of the nosecones of scrapped Vulcan bombers, 4 or 5 of them placed side by side raised up on brick walls. Dudley Wood was that sort of place-happy memories!.
Nigel Pearson, part of the current Dudley Heathens management setup, was stadium announcer at the old stadium for several years and has said that when it closed
it ripped the heart out of the local community-and he's right."
"I have read your article on Long Eaton Speedway and I think it's very good. I did
see the above book at Beaumont Park at the weekend but didnt have enough money on me at the time to buy it. Long Eaton is where are started watching speedway as my dad,
George Wood used to work on the track staff during the Archers days. I was also a mascot at Long Eaton I used to go around the track with usually Ray Wilson. But I also
had the pleasure of going around the track with the Great Ove Fundin and had my photo taken with him, which I used to have a copy of but its been misslaid somewhere."
"Thanks guys for the nice feedback, I really enjoy sharing my collection
and love people stopping by to talk speedway! (and Phil the speedway bar is coming)!"
John Hyam looks back at the life of this member of the first ever Wembley Lions side. Jack went on to ride for Birmingham and Harringay
amongst others.
Brian Longman captured these new pictures from the Arena Essex raceway on a sunny afternoon back in April.
Richard Austin (our expert on all things Scouse) thinks the Liverpool Chads 1952 line-up was as follows: (l to r) Tommy Allott, Harry Welch, Peter Robinson, Val Morton,
Reg Duval, Eric Smith, (?), Bill Griffith, Len Read". Anyone able to fill in the blank?
We're hoping to find a photograph of Hugh Watkinson who was killed in track action at Perry Barr. Please drop us an email at
speedwayplus@hotmail.com if you can help.
The new Speedway Grand Prix 4 game is now available to pre-order from amazon
for £24.99
"Gillman has only been in operation since 1998 but is regarded as the
best Motorcycle speedway in Australia. 295m in length and able to accomodate 8,000 fans, it gets an AirFence from 2011/12 and since 2006 has also had a 111m junior
track on the infield. "
"Hey talk about the "big five" in late fifties and sixties Speedway, but
it should have been six. Ken was one of the few riders in the same league as messrs Briggs, Moore, Fundin, Craven, and Knutsson. Your correspondants are saying Ken was at
his best with West Ham, and he was still truely great, but his time at Leicester was his pomp. He was a second division star with the Hunters, but when the two leagues
merged, he was able to compete with the best. Ken had little luck in World Finals, but he was good enough to have become World Champ. I feel privilaged to have watched
one of the all-time greats at his best at Blackbird Road."
"Spent many days watching Ken in his twilight years, racing and teaching
the young ones at Quibell Park Scunthorpe. Can still picture him in Black leathers and Pudding basin helmet a sight I will never forget."
"It is fantastic for Steve to get some recognition for his wonderful
collection. Steve works tirelessly helping to run speedway in Florida and to help where he can back home, especially towards helping defunct tracks like Exeter, Cradley
and Ellesmere Port etc. Keep up the great work Steve, and hopefully we can get over to see The Garage Mahal 11 next year."
"What a superb array of speedway goodies this is! Well done To Steve on what
is a simply stunning speedway collection. Have never been to the States before, that might change after seeing this little lot!!"
"Great display, Steve, I can see that we have a Florida rival to our
National Speedway Museum here in Broxbourne, Hertfordshire. Well done, but where do you park your car now??"
"Sidewinders is a fantastic venue, and as already stated helped
produce many quality riders who have gone on to perform on the international stage. The likes of Leigh Adams and Jason Crump also rode there regularly. Wouldn't it be
great if every major speedway centre had a facility like sidewinders?"
There's little doubt that Ivan Mauger and Ole Olsen are two of the greatest riders the sport has ever seen, both winning multiple World Championships.
Tracy Holmes turns back the clock to look at their clashes in the World Championship over the years. In this lengthy article he covers
the period from 1964 right through to the early eighties.
The Milton Keynes Knights were back on track recently. Here from Richard Ward are reports from their long-awaited return.
The above picture shows the Liverpool Chads side of 1952, this was found in the belongings of a chap called Bernard Riley. We're not sure whether Bernard
played an active role in the speedway or was simply a supporter. Any information on Bernard or the picture itself would be welcomed.
Flushed with the success of his recent appeal for info, Jim Henry is now hoping our visitors can help him fill in further blanks in speedway's history. There
are a number of meetings between 1946 and 1959 of which very little is known. Jim has provided a PDF of
these meetings and would be delighted to hear from anyone who can assist his research. Jim can be contacted at jamesjhenry@yahoo.co.uk
Publishers Retro Speedway are looking for any decent quality colour or black and white photographs of the sadly demolished Belle Vue Hyde Road stadium during
the demolition process at the end of 1987. They are to be used in their next DVD project, due for release in October. Please contact Tony Mac at editorial@retro-speedway.com
or phone him or Susie Muir on 01708 734 502.
Tony says: �Several years ago I saw some very graphic images of the stadium being knocked down - but can�t recall who took the pics. We would like to get in touch with
them, or anybody else who may have popped along to the famous, old venue to record its sad demise. We would also like to hear from anyone who has photos they took
of the Aces� original stadium in its prime.�
"Sidewinders has been in operation since 1976 and has seen the development
of such riders as the late Craig Hodgson, Shane Parker, Shane Bowes, Scott Norman, Ryan Sullivan, Rory Schlein and current Red Bull Rookies rider (and 3x Aussie U-16 champ)
Arthur Sissis."
"Agree entirely with Peter Hunter on the GP being taken outside of Europe (much as I
dislike the GP format anyway). Surely if Grin wins the title this year, 2012 would be the perfect time to stage a round in the US of A, as the Americans are the best in
the world at supporting their own, and with a defending World Champion to support, what better time-and with guys like Jason Crump and Chris Holder doing the Aussies
proud, surely there's a strong case for an Aussie round, or are vested interests still more important than actually promoting the sport? "
"Just a little story thay might amuse you.
Some years ago I was at Oxford watching Oxford versus Belle Vue. Someone broke the tapes
and the referee decided that Alan was to blame and put his exclusion light on. Alan obviosly
did not agree, because he walked all the way from the pits to the starting gate where they had
just repaired the tapes- broke all fhree tapes with his hands, turned towards the referees box
and gave a two fingered salute with both hands. I dont know if the referee took any action
but it was a wonderful moment.Good luck Alan, and thanks for the memories."
"I think it's a but unfair to say that Terry never pulled
up any trees at Wolverhampton. He gave a lot of pleasure to people like myself with his full-throttle, round the outside style.You were a real pleasure to watch, mate.
All the very best to you. "
"John Chaplin always writes such interesing and informative pieces, I've enjoyed
his articles and Vintage Speedway Magazine for many years. Although I first saw speedway racing sat on my Mum's lap in the grandstand at Pennycross Stadium, Plymouth
in the 50's, it was 1961 when as a 13 year old my imagination was captured for life when the Provincial League re-opend Pennycross with the arrival of The Plymouth Bulldogs,
racing in the previous season's Bristol race jackets, or breastplates as we called them then. Jack Scott, Maury Mattingly, Cliff Cox, Chris Julians, Ron Bagley,
Chris Blewett and Ray Wicket were my first speedway heroes, although Pete Lansdale and Len Read were household names in our household. I find stories involving deep
cinders racing surfaces, black leathers and silencer-less bikes intriuging. I remember my Dad, Alan, telling me stories of the days before my time, "they used to
spray thinned oil onto the tracks in those days, not water" and descriptions of Wombwell, Tamworth and Leicester Super and other tracks he'd visited with the
Devils as mechanic and occasional team manager. He never talked much about it, but I believe he tried his luck at Exeter before WW2 as Francis Drake, his parents
would have grounded him had they known about it. I have some programmes with the name in some junior races. Thanks John Chaplin for stirring the old memory banks, long may
you entertain with your inspired writing."
"I have recently come across your piece on the late
Peter Moore, although I suspect it was written a little while ago now.
I was a great fan of his, having seen my first speedway meeting in 1960, at the age of 13 when he was the star at Ipswich.
Looking back, 1960 was probably his best year. He finished 4th in the World Final and would have secured third place had Ove Fundin
not beaten him by the narrowest of margins in his last race.
Interestingly, Ove Fundin has named Peter as the rider he feared most in his racing career. He was a very fast gater and once in front was very difficult to pass.
I felt at the time and have done so since that he was the most underrated of all the Australian speedway riders of his age. He is often mentioned in magazines like Classic
Speedway but I have never seen a definitive account of his Speedway career. I have recently been in touch with Peter White in Australia who says that little has been
published there about him. I thought this might be the case and sent Brian Darby a photograph of Peter which he kindly put on his excellent Vintage Speedway website.
Now that I am retired, I have a little more time to research subjects like this. I was particularly interested in making contact with Peter Moore's nephew who responded to
your piece."
If Leigh Moore contacts us then we'll put him in touch with Brian
Ivan Blacka brings us details and pictures of a quite remarkable speedway museum in Florida. The 'Garage Mahal II' is a privately
owned collection of memorabilia but is open to visitors by appointment.
Birmingham Brummies recently opened a Hall of Fame within their well-appointed restaurant complex. Eight Brummies legends are the initial inductees
with further additions to be made in the months and years ahead.
Find out what you can expect to find in the latest issue of the ever-popular Backtrack magazine from Retro-Speedway. Their interview with
Denzil Kent is a stand-out highlight this time.
We're delighted to report that Jim Henry's appeal for information last week prompted a major collector to contact him. As a result
Jim has received what he describes as a 'massive pile of information' that has helped answer a large number of outstanding queries on the
sport's history.
"In answer to Ian Harwood's question about
Costa Mesa Practice 1970--yes, this was the session filmed by Bruce Brown for 'On Any Sunday'. In the accompanying photo of
Ivan Mauger practicing a start, Brown and his camera are visible on the right, just outside the safety fence. He also filmed at least one meeting at Costa Mesa
(probably the following night, 30 October), and one Sunday afternoon meeting at San Gabriel Valley Speedway (the original 'Irwindale'). Unfortunately,
none of the speedway footage was used in the movie. "
"That had the annual Derby Fair at the Showgrounds and they
destroyed the track. Going to cost them about $30.000 to get it back to racing condition. Got to feel for them. I hope they come through and repair the track in time for
the next meeting. Speedway would not be the same in Calif. without Costa Mesa. Thumbs up for them."
"At the Speedway Museum at Paradise Wildlife Park
one of the displays is a replica of the Pits area in a Local Derby West Ham vs Hackney, and hanging up are Bengt`s Leathers and Hackney racing colours."
"Sad to say that Claremont Speedway closed in 2000 although the arena lives
on as its other identity, the Claremont Showgroungs, the main showground in the city of Perth."
"Very enjoyable and informative for me. I was never a speedway fan -
never had the money to go and didn't know anyone who did go, but we could hear the roars on race evenings from where we lived - and for us, The Chads were a Liverpool
fixture just like Liverpool and Everton (we didn't go to the football either being a bit far out on the City/Roby border). We did make our own speedway and raced around
doing 'broadsides' and calling ourselves 'Chads' and such. The big day came when another team, from somewhere around Old Swan, I think, came along with all the real
gear - miners boots with a steel plate on the left one, scarves, helmets, goggles, push bikes rigged up as speedway bikes with wide home-made handle bars, etc. They had a
crowd of supporters and even 'girls' with them. We'd never seen such excitement and such glamour! We weren't able to give them any sort of competition but they didn't
complain and put on a great show for us. However, after it was over, we took the track markers away and that was that. Great times. "
"This was my uncle Norrie. As children we were really excited when
he came visiting because he seemed a glamorous person who was great fun for us to spend time with. He used to post notes under our doors written in red ink. They would
say things like, 'All your secrets are known - beware! Signed in his own blood - the Red Raider!' I remained really close to him up until his death in 1999."
Willie is a lapsed Edinburgh Monarchs fan, who used to enjoy watching them at their former Powderhall home.
Jim Henry from the Speedway Researcher is looking for missing details of meetings staged in 1959. He's supplied a PDF of
the information he seeks. If you can help plug the gaps then email him at jamesjhenry@yahoo.co.uk
Friends of Speedway (a non-profit making organisation who are proud to sponsor the British Youth Championship � formerly the Under 15�s) are pleased to announce
the 42nd edition of their magazine the Voice which is packed full of interest and enjoyment. This issue is again 32 pages � a real bumper issue that will keep
your interest for hours!
In this issue David Telfer gives his views on many aspects of speedway including him contacting the Daily Express over the lack of speedway coverage
plus his ratings on Sky Sports matches; Roy Delaney gives the facts on Eric Chitty and BMX cycle speedway; John Chaplin gives the low down on the 1950�s
speedway and asks �where are we going?�; Charles Mckay writes two very intense articles on our favourite sport; Annette Maybach gives her thoughts on it too;
plus John Hyam and Tony Webb from Australia and the Editor gives a review of the new book about Col Stewart�s racing days available soon in the UK and much more!
Available from Friends of Speedway, 117 Church Lane, Chessington, Surrey KT9 2DP. Please send your cheque for �10 made out to the above for four issues of the Voice
(or �2.50 for this issue) to Stuart Towner at the above address or ring 0208-397 6599 for more information.
"Was this the session where Bruce Brown filmed footage of Barry Briggs
for inclusion in the film On Any Sunday? Altough the section eventually edited out of the finished film was subsequently lost there is an outtake included
in the "revisited" film Motocross, Malcolm and More which was released in the 1990s and is included in the On Any Sunday DVD boxed set. The leathers worn by
Briggo feature the same bear on the front and the riding style is very similar in this photo to that in the flim."
"Nice article. As good as Ivan Mauger was the Calif. boys gave The
World a really tough time when they had there series at Costa Mesa. Can you imagine the Calif. boys riding at Hull or Exeter they would get slaughtered by The World.
It just shows how tricky them little tracks are to ride."
"More to the point, when is the SGP going to go to tracks OUTSIDE of Europe & the UK? Ok,
Sydney held the Aussie SGP in 2002 but that was a one off on an artificial track. They don't come down under, they don't go to the Americas.....it's about time they did IMO."
A selection of pictures from a practice session in sunny California in October 1970. These pictures are courtesy of Cary Cotterman and show
Jim Airey, Barry Briggs and Ivan Mauger in action.
Dave has been a Newcastle Diamonds fan since 1961, so has seen plenty of riders from which to choose his all time favourites. He includes Dick Campbell
the Edinburgh Monarchs legend.
"The length of the track is roughly the same size as the old
Sydney Showground Speedway (Speedway Royale) which sadly closed in 1996, There was an Australia vs USA match (unofficial) test there in 1999 but generally the only speedway
that takes place there these days is demonstration runs by vintage cars during the Sydney Royal Easter Show."
"I enjoyed reading Brian Buck's comments on Liverpool and the
Provincial League in general. Was there ever such a fascinating competition as the PL? At the end of its first season (1961) 40 per cent of its tracks (four out of ten)
were forced to withdraw for one reason or another, yet it quickly found five new venues for 1961. Throughout its existence, turnover was considerable, but there were
always new tracks to take the place of the ones that faltered. As Brian Buck recalls, the top three at the end of 1960 were the teams which had recruited riders with
plenty of National League experience.
One amazing statistic reported by the speedway press at the time was that champions Rayleigh (who won the league from Poole on race points) attracted a smaller average
crowd than rock-bottom Bradford, who only managed to win two league contests.
The circumstances that led to the birth of the Provincial League are covered in some depth
in my new book, SPEEDWAY The Classic Era, which is due to be published as a hardback by a publisher new to speedway, Halsgrove, this Autumn. The book
examines a number of the themes and the influences that shaped speedway in the first 40 years of its existence. The themes include the brief but bitter contest for
the soul of the sport between the motorcycle establishment and the commercial promoters, the struggle for recognition faced by aspiring riders, especially in the north
of England, during the mid-1950s downturn, and the battle between the declining National League and the booming Provincial League, which led to the PL running 'black' in
1964 and a subsequent probe into the way the sport was run, carried out by the top lawyer who prosecuted Nazi war criminals following World War Two."
Christian Weber has uncovered details of the German Golden Helmet that was staged from 1933-1939. The meetings saw sidecars and solos
competing in the same races and the prize for the first meeting was donated by the newly elected Chancellor.
Thanks to Brian Longman for these new pictures from Wolverhampton's Monmore Green stadium. Brian took the pictures when Hackney Hawks
visited the Dudley Heathens earlier this season.
Robert Rogers recently enjoyed watching the 'Blast from the Past' riders at Lakeside. He recommends checking out their website at
VintageSpeedway.co.uk. The picture above shows Keith Gardner at Lakeside, sporting the
famous white jersey and CH racejacket associated with the late Ivor Brown.
Chris Sands is a Bradford supporter hoping to hook up with other fans in the area to set up a new supporters club to arrange social gatherings and
trips to meetings. He appeals that if you're in the even the slightest bit interested to drop him an email at cmscrock@hotmail.co.uk
"My memories of Jackie are from the 60's, at Coventry. He
always had time for the fans. My enduring memory is when he broke a couple of ribs riding away from home, (I forget where) and he turned up at Brandon on the Saturday with
his wife's roll-on pulled up over his chest. It must have hurt like hell, but it shows the man's attitude to not let his team mates or the fans down."
"Lovely to read about Tiger Tom, I worked with him all too briefly
summer 76 at Imado Watches in Lichfield. They sponsored him and he delivered goods and picked up watches from airport etc I was 16 a speedway fan and in awe loved him
to bits. He was always very pleasant to me and I only recently discovered he had died so young. Speedway Star were kind enough to make enquiries and let me know via
Bert Harkins what had happened. Truly saddened. Take care everyone and enjoy our wonderful sport."
"Some of my earliest memories are of going to Rowley Park before it closed
(when I was 4). The plaque in these photo's isn't there ATM. Sadly some low life decided they wanted it more than where it should be :("
"Was a regular at Paisley for the two seasons it existed, I was 12
years old. Tom Davie was my favourite & I was saddened to hear he had passed away after a car crash sometime in the early 80's. I've got some of these pictures buried away
somewhere, they used to sell these pics at the merch stand."
"I used to ride for Long Eaton Bees cycle speedway team from 80-82, we
used to ride in the English league mainly in the midlands & yorkshire area. We had 3 or 4 real good riders who could hold their own, but we lacked a few more committed
riders and we used to get hammered most weeks. I remember we went on tour to Edinburgh as our captain George Syme was from there. I have actually raced on redbraes track!
We raced against Broomhall, Meadowbank and Annfield and won all 3 matches, which was great to win for a change. Can remember the bumps, bangs and cuts like it was yesterday!
We didn't wear safety helmets either back then. Still got the programmes. Used to write the match reports into the LE advertiser which like the cycle speedway and the
speedway stadium have all now sadly gone. Great memories though. I'm now 49."
Tom Marriott brings us this detailed, illustrated account of the life and times of Jeff Crawford. Jeff started his career with the
Fleetwood Flyers and eventually moved to Canada where he continued his career. This article is presented as a PDF (Adobe Acrobat) file and runs to
twenty-three pages.
Find out who won last week's competition that we ran in conjunction with www.patrioticgifts4u.co.uk.
Two lucky winners have won a speedway mug of their choice. There's also a chance to check whether your own answers were correct.
Darren Ashman sent us pictures of Bradford, Reading and Cradley Heath (all sadly now closed) that he took on trips up and down the country
watching meetings. We'd love to see more pictures of Cradley Heath in particular if there are any lurking out there.
"I remember the two Liverpool revivals very well. Reg Duval's 1957 promotion
looked to be a winner with large attendances especially in the earlier part of the season, but the existing promotors ganged up on Duval, forcing him to pay an "appearance fee"
for every rider he used in his challenge matches and not allowing him to use the names of their own clubs when they were riding at Stanley. (Belle Vue having to become
"Manchester" and Coventry having to be billed as "East Midlands" etc).
This was because 1957 was the year in which entertainment tax was abolished and the National
League promotors didn't see why they should have had to soldier on paying this tax for so many years and then see new promotors come onto the bandwaggon and to have to pay it.
Understandable up to a point I suppose, but shortsighted in the long run.
Liverpool were founder members of the Provincial League in 1960 and their promotor Mike Parker was one of the main instigators in getting the competition up and running.
Unfortunately, the Northern teams who joined, Liverpool, Bradford, Edinburgh and Sheffield, all chose to staff their teams with junior riders (mainly ex Belle Vue
second halfers) whilst the Southern teams all brought back retired old hands. The Northern teams especially Liverpool and Bradford, proved to be no match for their
Southern opponents and took some fearful home beatings all of which had a major effect on attendances. Liverpool opened the 1960 season with a crowd of over 4,000
which was pretty promising considering that the riders were only being paid 12/6 a point, but long before the end of the season the numbers had dwindled
away so badly from poor results, that it was clear that the track could not survive. Again, a great shame that speedway had missed the boat in one of
England's biggest cities. "
"The Brough Park meeting was in 1984 and was called the
"Marlboro Best Pairs". As the Diamonds were British League that season, I think Cribbie only got the invite because he was then doing something of a mini-tour breaking
track records on his ice bike."
Charles McKay went on a recent speedway trip to the USA and we'll bring you a selection of his photographs in the weeks and months
ahead. We start with Industry Hills Speedway.
We've teamed up with the good people at www.patrioticgifts4u.co.uk for this competition
that allows you to win a fabulous speedway mug. Simply identify three classic speedway racejackets and you could be one of our two lucky winners.
"Looks like Ian Gill could make a good Speedway rider after all.
But the real credit has to go to Sam Ermolenko. He shows up year after year to these reunions. Maybe the great Ivan Mauger should learn a thing or two from Sam and do
some reunions to boost the sport. That's what it's all about isn't it? Boosting the sport.. "
"Danny was awesome back in the day at Costa Mesa. I spent 10
years of my life watching left hand turning dirt rooster churning rocket pilots the likes of Alan Christiansen' the Bass Bros. with halftime entertainment from Doug Dimokos
the wheelie king, and inbetween antics of Gene Gene the Dancing Machine. And who can forget the spine chingling play by play from Larry Hoffman. "
"Just watched the YOUTUBE Clip of the Speedway Museum, very enjoyable.
Terry Stone did a great job at the narrating taking us through the bikes from different eras. The only niggle I've got is It wasn't long enough!! I'm sure Terry would be a
great guide to take us around the whole museum and tell us a few more tales of Speedway."
John Chaplin looks back on the 1950s, recalling the sport's steep decline during the decade and the reasons behind it.
He also selects his 'Team of the Decade' including some of the biggest names that speedway has ever known.
Details of a new project that will lead to the Milton Keynes Knights (complete with new modern logo) taking to the track again later this year.
The Knights have been inactive since mid-way through the 1992 season.
Pictures of this German circuit - courtesy of Bob Cole who visited the track earlier this year.
Terry Stone is our guide to the Speedway Museum on an interesting video on YouTube.
Terry's piece starts at 4 minutes and 15 seconds after some chat about vintage cars.
Adrian McKinlay wishes to thank everyone who got in touch about his recent query on his father's career and those who have offered him pictures of Ken.
"I have read this cover to cover and yes
there is enough about Speedway to keep fans happy but it's about Alan and his life/career. This is Alan's story, it's a great read and well done to him
for baring his soul."
"Faulty logic in this re: Mauger. Suggesting
that people make a big deal about Mauger's engine failure, but it wasn't really that important because Simmo beat Mauger without trouble later - well,
after Mauger's engine failure, he was no longer on his number one bike, for one thing. Furthermore, Mauger claimed that he had to race Simmo on a
cold second bike. Would Collins have beat Mauger had they both been unbeaten in heat 20? It's for the gods to decide. Certainly no-one can begrudge
Collins his win though - he was a worthy champion, and too good to have only won one title."
"I was a regular visitor to Cleveland
Park on thursday night. Great memories of some fantastic riders. I remember one thursday Roger Wright going round the outside along the back straight at
Cleveland Park his clutch got stuck and he did a wheelie all the way down the back before coming to grief crashing into the fence on the corner.
My father still holds quite a number of badges from there. Tim and Tony Swales were great riders as well"
"Loved the article on Long Eaton's reunion.
Organising something similar for the Paisley Lions on 22 October and it was great to hear about the various bits and bobs about memorabilia, the invitees,
interviews, and the like-think it would be a lot of help for anyone organising such an event. "
In this extract from Trackin Down 3, Paul Evitts recalls the circumstances that led to him moving from Birmingham to Canterbury.
Adrian McKinlay wants to know what number Ken McKinlay was wearing in the 1956 World Final - Can You Help?
Continuing the Long Eaton theme, the Invaders new supporters club will be officially launched at Leicester on Saturday.
Invaders Chris Widman and Lee Geary will be on hand to meet the fans. Membership will cost £6 for adults and £3 for kids/oaps.
"This book is a must read along with the Alan Carter book.
Forget about all them other books that we have all read a million times. Read something new for a change instead of the same old stuff that we all know about.."
"Yet more fantastic photos from my all time favourite track.
I'm saying that as a lifelong Wimbledon fan! Looking at them is enough to make a grown man cry."
"Ian(Titch), Yes, you are right about
Pauline & Shelley Coombes. I'm getting to "that age". Thanks for reply Bert, reasons fully understood. I remember appearing at your home in Mansewood? Glasgow
circa. 1963. I was rebuilding/tuning a BSA C15 250 and had run into problems. I lived in Pollokshields and "the grapevine" informed me that one Bert Harkins
was the man to speak to about motorcycles. Took the bus up to Mansewood. Lo & behold you werent in! Bet you were glad!! Still managed to get the C15 to do
65mph. Wow! I must have seen you around the old Clydesdale in the 1950s when the Cycle Speedway was on the go. I know that a certain Mr D Barrie was there
at the time. All the best Bert & thanks for some gret memories."
A tribute to the popular team-man of the fifties and sixties who passed away recently. Thanks to Matt Jackson
and Hugh Vass for allowing us to reproduce this extract from their A-Z book of Post War riders.
Those busy people at Retro-Speedway have just released another DVD - this time covering the life and times of Shawn 'Shooey' Moran.
Shawn was recently over in the UK to promote the discs and meet his fans. We'll do a full review of the DVD in due course, but here's
some initial details of what you can expect.
Peter Nice is looking for details of racing in The Netherlands in the 50s and 60s - Can You Help?
"Fantastic snaps and special memories for me as April
1974 was my first speedway meeting. It was the Rockets v Peterborough and I think the score was 40-38 in the Rockets favour. Could the picture of perhaps
Alan Emmett maybe be Les "Red" Ott?"
"Monday nights at the Chads was like walking
into a different world. I remember riders like Doug Surrurier, Angus Maguire and Charlie Oates who were our heroes. Those of us who had push-bikes
always cornered with a serious drift over to the left. I borrowed a neighbour's bike and wrecked it on a field which is now the site of the old Ford
factory in Halewood. If other towns can produce good teams, why doesn't Liverpool. It would give us break from Football."
"Sorry for the miss information on Christer Lofqvist,
they are correct, I did get the two Christers mixed up, I was, as pointed out, trying to make the point that both riders died young after being the
last winners at West Ham."
"Had the pleasure of meeting Terry on a
couple of occasions at both Hampden Park and at King's Lynn. Always found him to be the mould of the perfect speedway rider in that he was SO good as a
rider and an absolute gem off it-40 years on, can still remember him as the perfect gentleman at Hampden coming out to do the 2nd half draw after a big
score for the Stars, and equally as genial at Saddlebow Rd after his large return had once again done us out of any chance of a win-if manners and courtesy
were anything to go by, then Terry Betts would have been a World Champion with no difficulty whatsoever!"
"Regarding the
Sheffield back straight...although I am not a Sheffield fan I can certainly remember it being open..I can vaguely remember standing there in the late 70's
but I can definitely remember standing there for a Sheffield v Cradley match in 1982 just after Penhall retired on the World Final rostrum...for some
reason that sticks in my mind as I remember seeing Simon Wigg at reserve flying out of the start all night when still a Weymouth rider in the old
National league...I am not sure when it closed though as it was closed around 1989 when I went back."
"Comment by Chris Stockwell......Really do support your
comment on this one. I have to say the first I ever heard of this GRAND FINAL & PLAYOFF stuff was when I emigrated to Canada....it seems all of North
America had and still does have this garbage.....In Ice Hockey you can have 16 teams qualify for the playoffs and the team that finished 16th could win
it all after 80 regular season games. I am still a firm believer that a 15 point max means YOU HAVE WON and the most points in a league means
YOU HAVE WON THE CHAMPIONSHIP. Poor Tai, I do feel very sorry for him."
We catch up with Tony McDonald of Retro-Speedway to find out more about their new book on Alan Carter
and to ascertain whether it's likely to interest speedway fans.
Dave Train casts his mind back fifty years to recall his first impressions of Gil Goldfinch.
Steve Haire is after some info about the back straight terracing at Sheffield - Can You Help?
A new Long Eaton Invaders Supporters Club is being formed - further details available from from Simon Stanley (simonstanley152@btinternet.com)
Latest from Bill Elliot on the Paisley Reunion:
"Venue is the Five on 5 Club (part of the ProLife
complex) at 98 New Sneddon St in Paisley on Saturday 22 October. It
couldn't be closer to the old Love St track-from the town centre,
proceed along Love St and instead of taking a left into the stadium as
it was, attendees go a few yards further and then take a right into New
Sneddon St, the venue being a mere couple of hundred yards away.
Apart from the attendance of many of the Lions from the mid 70's, the
night will feature 70's music only, in keeping with the nostalgic
element of the night, with loads of photos and a slide show with pics
of the Lions in action, and I suspect there may be the odd trace of red
and yellow about the place!"
"2011 is the year and the revival of LONG EATON has
risen from the ashes in what is now known as the Midland league. Long Eaton Invaders are now racing at Beaumont leys in the new Leicester Lions camp and
are facing Leicester Cubs, Exeter, Bradford and Hackney. I like many others carry LONG EATON in my heart and have many memories associated with Long Eaton
from the late Archers days up to the Rangers then Nottingham Outlaws and finally the INVADERS untill the untimely death of LONG EATON SPEEDWAY and
am always sad when passing Station road and Nottingham road."
"Robert Rogers claims that both Christer Lofqvist and
Kevin Holden lost their lives in track accidents. Christer died from a brain tumour in 1978. Kevin did crash at Poole, but the cause of death was given
as a ruptured aorta. It is likely that this event was the cause of the accident, occurring (naturally) a split-second earlier."
"One reader makes reference to Kevin Holden and Christer
Lofqvist both dying as a result of track accidents. Christer actually died of a brain haemorrhage not a track accident. He may be getting confused with
Christer Sjosten who was killed on track in Australia."
"With regard to Robert Rogers photographs of the
England-v-Australia Test Match at Lakeside and in particular Adam Shields crash, the good news is that Adam did not break any bones although he has
unfortunately sustained quite serious ligament damage to his knee and is likely to be out for at least a month. Elsewhere on the site last week it
was mentioned in connection with West Ham that both Christer Lofquist and Kevin Holden died in track crashes but this is no entirely correct. Christer
actually died as a result of a brain tumour, although it was at a tragically young age (I think he was only about 27). Kevin certainly died after a track
crash but the cause of death was said to be a ruptured artery and it could not be medically proven whether the crash caused the artery to rupture or
whether there was some pre-existing weakness in the artery that caused it to rupture and that in turn caused the crash. However as it was such a simple
and innocuous looking crash, the balance of opinion seems to be that the artery ruptured first and that caused the crash."
"Eastbourne has an open pit policy before all meetings; until
the bikes start. It was introduced, I think, by Jon Cook - now at Lakeside. Eastbourne pits are also open after the meeting, once it is safe to let
public in."
"I'm led to believe that some so-called
Middlesbrough fans let Reg's tyres down after one meeting in 1964. It can't have done us any favours when Reg was looking at Halifax long before the
1965 season kicked in and had relocated the team to The Shay. I wonder if Reg can remember this as my interview with him took place about seven/eight
years ago?
I only recently discovered Middlesbrough applied
to join the National League in 1948 but their application was rejected on the grounds that it was too difficult to get too in the days before
motorways had been constructed. At that time six of the eight member clubs were based in London with Belle Vue and Odsal (Bradford) the only
northern clubs. It's ironic though that both Bristol and Norwich were regular visitors in the 1940s. I cannot begin to imagine how many hours it
must have taken riders to reach opposing tracks in those days.
Another interesting couple of anecdotes regarding Middlesbrough. One involving Ron Wilson who promoted at Leicester, Middlesbrough & Milton Keynes
(between 1968 and 1979 at Cleveland Park). Ron always made sure he picked up a box of cream cakes for the journey back to Leicester. One night
he pulled over on the A19 and opened the box and some wag had replaced the cream cakes with dog biscuits - I can't tell you who got the blame!
Also an interesting story about the late Tom Leadbitter who rode for Bristol, Middlesbrough, Leicester & Wolverhampton. Tom rode originally at
Cleveland Park between 1968 and 1970 and was a bit of a hero back in those days to me. The team turned up at an away track and the team manager
Henry Atkinson informed the heat leaders they would be taking an extra ride tonight as they were using rider replacement. Tom immediately turned
round and refused to co-operate so Henry insisted he would take the extra ride. Tom went out, rode through the tapes and got excluded. Funny bloody
lot speedway riders!!"
Ian Gill is back with issue 3 of his excellent "Trackin' Down" series of books. Once again
he's out to raise money for good causes by providing highly detailed interviews with former Long Eaton favourites.
The men in the spotlight this time are Geoff Bouchard, Paul Evitts and Phil Whittaker. In this article you can
find out more about the book and read an extract in which Geoff Bouchard recalls how his riding career began.
Robert J. Rogers shares his thoughts from a recent trip to Lakeside to watch the Britain v
Australia test match. He also had his camera on hand to capture a few snaps.
A preview of the latest publication from Retro-Speedway: Alan Carter - Light in the Darkness. Alan is of course
the younger brother of Kenny and enjoyed considerable success himself in a different motorcycling discipline. This book
promises to lift the lid on what life was really like in the Carter family. We'll bring you more on this one in the near future.
Bill Elliot's worthy efforts to stage a Paisley Lions reunion later this year made the local press and elicited comment from
Lions' promoter Neil McFarlane. Check out at the article on The Paisley Daily Express website.
"Really enjoyed your piece on Terry
Betts. Aged 8 to 12 years old, Terry was my hero. My father would drop us off at Saddlebow when we were home from Prep school. In my view Bettsy was the
best and I saw him beat the best - Mauger, Briggs, Olsen etc. I hadn't seen speedway for near on 40 years until saw Lynn stars racing on Sky sports. I
suggested to my brother we should go and see a meeting and went to the stars v Coventry Bees. Whilst by the pits I got talking to a man and discovered
this was Buster Chapman, the owner of the Norfolk arena. He told me Terry was here and it was his first visit for years.
We ended after the meeting going
to the bar and whilst waiting to be served I saw Terry behind us. I went over saying ' you won't know me but you were my hero 40 years ago - can I buy
you a drink'. Terry accepted my offer of drink and joined us for a good 1/2 hr chatting about old times. Often you can be disappointed when you meet
your childhood heroes. But Terry was charming and I think would have chatted for much longer. Thanks Terry you made our night. All the best to you."
Chris Stockwell:
"Isn't it time Speedways governing body got rid of this ridiculas GRAND FINAL RACE. Once again in the
British Final the best rider on show doesn't become CHAMPION. Tai Woffinden battles his way through the pain barrier and scores a tremendous 15 point
maximum and ends up third!! CRAZY. No wonder Speedw ay is considered a JOKE. The longer the B.S.P.A. continue with this SHAM the worst light Speedway
will be shown in. OR DON'T THE B.S.P.A. CARE ABOUT THE WAY SPEEDWAY COMES ACROSS? OBVIOUSLY NOT!!!!"
"Sadly the last ever rider to win a 1st Divison race was
Christer Lofqvist, the last 2nd Divsion rider was Kevin, both sadly lost their lives in later track accidents."
"Interesting to read Dave Gifford's comments about the
"secret" 2-minute buzzer. From reading some of the current day retro speedway books, I thought it was Alan Morrey who used to activate the 2-minute buzzer."
"@ Dave Beecroft You are correct in
identifying Lonsdale Park next to the Reds ground Borough Park. The new road and temporary bridge over the river to replace Northside Bridge so tragically
washed away in the infamous floods now crosses over part of this old stadium"
"You lucky devil,Ken. I really envy you on your new
lifestyle. In my younger days I regularly went on "speedway tours " with my mate, trying to get in a different track every night for a week, sleeping in
the car, having a few beers at each track. The friendliest place we visited was Long Eaton where we parked near a school playground and at 8.00 am the
dinner ladies brought us a cup of tea for our breakfast. Longest trip was Poole, where I think we were the only Halifax supporters there (it was midweek)
so we tried to make enough noise to make up for it (we were drunk). The locals seemed to find 2 drunken Yorkshiremen quite amusing, especially as we were
getting a pasting."
There must be many more tales out there from speedway tours over the years. Get in Touch if you've a story or two to tell.
Dudley Jones appeals to us all to do our bit to preserve Cowley Stadium, in the hope
that speedway will one day return to Oxford.
Jim Blanchard's latest work is this impressive painting of Coventry's Emil Sayfutdinov. Prints are available
from Jim's website.
Bill Elliot is arranging a Paisley Lions reunion for October/November this year. A number of former riders
and officials have already been invited, but he's still seeking more. If you wish to attend, want further details
or can put Bill in contact with former Lions then drop him an email (bettens6@talktalk.net) or give him a call (07854 724184).
Alison Byatt is looking for information on Sydney Scadding a former Grasstrack/Longtrack rider in New Zealand
- Can You Help?
"Many thanks for sharing your snapshots with
us Ian. I found them to be very interesting and spent time looking at how both tracks had developed since the mid-70's, especially Mildenhall. "
"These photos just go to show what a massive loss Hyde Road
was to the sport. This was a proper speedway stadium with loads of racing lines, gone but not forgotten."
"The last meeting was in 1972 when the defunct Romford
Bombers moved to West Ham. The club wound up after only a handful of meetings and the last ever race (second half final) was won by West Ham's captain and
track record holder, Kevin Holden. "
"The Jack "Red" Monteith memorial salver was donated by
Chemtec UK, Jack's employer at the time of his death ( 12th Jan 2010 ) The salver is awarded to the winner of the reserve's race ( Spring trophy Glasgow v
Edinburgh ) Matt McKie , work colleague of Jack and Glasgow supporter."
Mark has been watching Belle Vue since he was five years old and selects his favourite Aces
and visitors down the years.
Geoff Mardon (now 83 years young) was inducted into the New Zealand Speedway Hall of Fame on 28th May.
Here's Geoff with his old pal Bob Andrews. Thanks to Bob and Jim Henry who both sent us this picture.
Sheffield Tigers have now got a club song - "Here Come The Tigers". You can listen to it on
YouTube.
"I saw my first speedway at Odsal in 1946 and I remember
Eddie a few years later usually riding in heat one with the great Max Grosskreoutz getting the boomerangs off to a 5-1 start. Sadly there is no longer
any speedway at Bradford due to a short sighted council. So I have purchased a small camper van and at ripe old age of 76 I am travelling to places
like Belle Vue, Sheffield, Redcar and Newcastle etc. "
"Does anybody else remember in the mid 50's going by coach from
Stanly Stadium to Strothers Music shop in Wallasey and recording the Liverpool Chads fan song 'We're here to cheer our lads, we're here to cheer the Chads'
etc. which was played over the Tannoy system at the beginning of each meeting. I was one of about eight kids who were chosen/volunteered after the
Saturday kids matinee at the Casino cinema. Does the record still exist? Be interested to know!"
"What a great article on Gary. While
he was at Bradford I was working on the gate doing the tape magnets. To see him ride from inside the track was a great privilege and we were all always
jostling to be the one to wheel Gary's bike out for the parade. When he came back from Wolves to ride in an invitation match he would always chat to us
all, while doing the long walk from the clubhouse to the pits. A great bloke, a great rider. I was there working the night he did Maury Robinson over the
grass.It was obvious to a blind man but it would have been a very brave ref indeed to go against Bradford's hero on his own stamping ground.He was
a great loss.Interesting to read Mike Sheldrick's comments as his brother Sid was always great value at Bradford as well."
"I notice Tony Webbs comment on the Plymouth item about
Race Jackets, I think he is 100% correct. I went to Lakeside last week for only the 2nd time after a long break from watching racing, I did notice with
the Kings Lynn team, unlike the Hammers, have no real racing colours (Race Jackets), and it was hard to spot they were called the `Stars`, amongst
the adverts. I know a team, like riders, need the funding from Adverts and Sponsors, but I think in the case of Kings Lynn, they have gone too far.
I also notice when Sky TV were there (vs Wolverhamton), the Hammers proundly wore Royal Navy Race Jackets to support our Lads and Lasses in the
armed services, so it is not a case of not having racing colours so it is easier to see the adverts on the TV, as these would have been too small
to see anyway."
