father jack

1968 was the first one I saw, I remember Briggo won it, and the result rested on one of the last races, when Briggo, Toby Harrysson and Ivan Maugerall had 11 points, Toby fell and Briggo passed Ivan on the last bend, then Soren Sjosten beat the previously undefeated Eric Boocock, to force the run - off which Briggo won. A great meeting, amazing atmosphere. The place was packed , I had to watch the meeting sat on my Dad's shoulders.

The last rider to win a race on a JAP engine could be Mike Broadbank, sometime in October 1977, Newport V Eastbourne, the last ever meeting at the old Somerton Park track. I do know Mike won a race that night, but I cant remember much else apart frm the fact that Newport lost. ( Nothing changes )

I remember Mike Broadbank trying a 4 valve jap conversion built by Bob Kilby when he rode for the Dragons in 1977, I dont think it lasted a race !!! Mike raced the season on a 2 valve jap engine, and I think he boasted a near 7 point average. I belive Dave Jessup tried out a jap in the 80's, not sure about that one though .