nw42

Thanks Tim, that'll fill the evening til the Haye/Bellew fight.

He discovered pies.

Nice to see AJ mixing it there in ht12, always liked him and enjoyed his racing style.

I must admit I did find that frustrating, mainly because, as Star Lady said, it was obvious that the pass was coming yet the camera stuck with 3rd/4th place. I've not really noticed any start girls though

No flies on you mate, wish my memory was half as good, everything blends into one. Maybe we travelled over to see PC guesting for another team, definitely remember it wasn't to see the Aces. Strange move for Larry at the time I think, regardless of reasons for leaving the Aces I wouldn't have expected him to go there, if only because Carter was king and Larry was an experienced old pro by then, can't remember how he did there but his gating prowess would have stood him in good stead no doubt.

I visited The Shay many times during late 60's to late 70's, usually we stood on the first 2 bends, if I remember rightly the riders used to arrive via the back of that area, can recall seeing Kenny Carters posh motorhome parked up there, not sure any other riders had them back then, it was massive too, more like a coach. Belle Vue fared ok at Halifax as I recall, someone mentioned PC, he definitely had the measure of the track and was one of the few who could show Carter the way round on plenty of occasions, got a vague memory of a Golden Helmet win for PC, pretty sure the Aces weren't riding but we travelled over for the match race, maybe not, all too distant. No idea who the announcer was but I can shut my eyes and hear him clear as day, proper broad Yorkshire accent, funny how things stick with you. A lad I grew up with had a short spell with the Dukes, Ian Westwell, a year or 2 older than me, he had a relatively short unremarkable career but I was so jealous of him doing what I dreamt of doing. Another good thought provoking thread Sid, keep em coming fella.

Indeed it is but did you ever visit Harringay, perhaps your subliminal memory was also sending you messages. I was also just thinking about the journey those Belle Vue riders will have undertaken that day, assuming they were mostly northern based it must have meant a hell of a drive, pre motorways etc, no doubt they would all travel home following the meeting too, that's a long day for the cause. There is a scarf wearing Aces supporter in the picture too, again that would have been quite a commitment. As they say, every picture tells a story.

Brilliant work Chadster.

Funny how we imagine colours on a black & white photo, I convinced myself they were claret & blue.

I never went there but could the stadium be Custom House? This could be from the other side of the glass behind the riders in pic 1.

Decent meeting for a tv opener, enjoyed it. So pleased for all the Fogo fans, they turn up whatever the weather and deserve the success.

Was thinking that myself, on a mission to repay the compliment to Pepe, brilliant race.

Exactly, I don't give a stuff about the format, just want good racing and so far so good. It's not as though anyone is supporting these teams, or ever will, so who cares who wins, I don't. Looking forward to seeing Fricke v Madsen if it occurs.

Max Fricke is on fire today, 2 cracking rides so far, anyone who can overhaul Dudek in that fashion must have some serious machinery under them. Early days mind, here's hoping Max Keeps it going.

Welcome back speedway, been a long winter..

They were held throughout the close season on Saturday mornings/afternoons, saved on floodlight costs I suppose.

You never know Sid, the NSS was just a pipe dream as far as plenty were concerned, there was originally talk of training schools being operated. In an ideal world it would be a fantastic way of welcoming Chris Morton back into the fold, all those years of experience and track-craft would be put to the best possible use and Chris would be where he belongs in some capacity.

I don't think we're getting an answer to this one, he's resorted to deflection tactics.

Yeah come on, tell us.

Got any fruitcake?

ok I'll bite. What's wrong with that, he grew up singing it and obviously feels respectful towards the country. Did you see/hear his answer to Jason Crump in the follow up interviews? Anyway, I enjoyed seeing the Aussie win and I don't think I've uttered those words before, can't help but admire Doyle for coming back the way he has, clearly made of tough stuff.

Reminds me of Soren Sjosten.

Can't see what all the fuss is about Watt taking part, it's only due to injuries and provides him with a taste of big time to bring the curtain down on a decent career. Great to see Doyle still prepared to get stuck in, could easily have switched off and nobody would have complained, respect to him for appreciated the fact that the crowd have paid good money and deserve as much racing as possible.

Pawlicki mugged by Watt there.

Big well done Jason Doyle, one of the most unlikely champions before last season but fair play to him.