chunky

I think the old mind must be going, Del-Boy; we covered this just a few months ago - AND YOU EVEN POSTED!!! Go back and check the "Cheetahs and Dons" thread started by Miro on March 5. Steve

Of course, the only prolem with THAT story, is that Ray Humphries probably wasn't around when the Tyburn Gallows were being used. The last execution at the gallows took place in November 1783! Steve

Actually, I don't disagree with kingpin23699's post above, or with Melchy, but anyway... Had Team GB done well, everyone would have been congratulating the riders, but instead, not only the riders, but also the management are roundly condemned. I really don't feel that "National Pride" is as big a factor in sport these days, but that is not necessarily a reflection on an individual's efforts, be it a rider or manager. I do not doubt for one second that the lads were trying their hardest. However, I can tell you from experience, that in competitive sport, it is not difficult to become disillusioned and deflated when things aren't going well. There is nothing worse for anyone participating in such a sport to be heckled or abused. The fact is that British riders are NOT out there, either in quantity or quality. That should not be construed as criticism of any individuals concerned, because it isn't, merely a reflection of the state of British speedway at the present time. Maybe Woffinden and/or Kennett would have made a difference, but as has been said, when Nicholls, Richardson, and Harris performed like they did, I doubt if it would have made much of a difference. Oh, and Subedei (and others), while you may be correct in your statement about respect being earned, that should not automatically dictate that an individual who has yet to earn your respect, should be subjected to the kind of intolerance and abuse that I have witnessed on some of these threads. Whether or not that person's views coincide with yours, and whether you are even acquainted with that person, people do at least deserve a little civility and courtesy. Intelligence is no substitute. Steve

He has stepped in for Sky on occasion, including one year when they did simultaneous broadcasts from two league matches. Steve

Thanks a bunch, Tony; looking at those pics made me want to cry my bloody eyes out... Steve

Absolutely correct, that man. Steve

I agree; I'd definitely say it was Reg Wilson. Steve

There was a novice at Wimbledon in 1969 by the name of Philip Lach-Szyrma. Steve

Both have already been mentioned, but I don't think that Colin Gooddy quite made it to four decades (1955-1977, I believe). Steve

Good call, Miro. Conny was another rider I'd thought would qualify for a four-decade span, but you certainly confirmed it. Steve

I believe he rode for Poole in 1997, but was absent from the British scene for the next two years. Steve

Yep, he was at Hackney, Bob. From his Hawks debut on April 2nd, 1965, until his last meeting on October 9, 1970, Les never missed an official meeting. He rode in 223 successive matches - 214 BL and 9 KOC. Steve

If we also include grass-track, that brings in Lew Coffin! Steve

Sorry, but he retired at the end of the 1970 season. He rode in 37 matches for an average of 4.71. Also, speedyguy; you're correct about Gene Bonsignore and George Lazor. Both started racing in 1976, which gives them four decades each. Steve

Okay, I'm on a roll here... Another three, all of whom were active from the 1940's through the '70's, namely Jack Biggs, Les McGillivray, and Reg Trott. Oops, better make that four - Peter Carr (1979 onwards). Steve

As I said, it is quite possible that Vladimir was still riding, although his date of birth could also indicate a son of his. The main thing is that it was Viktor who made a name for himself in the 70's, and not Vladimir. Of course, Vladimir could actually have started out in the 70's... Can anyone confirm??? Steve

I wouldn't get too carried away Iris, just because of a surname. I know that some of these Russians have had a lengthy career, but the Trofimov you are talking about is actually two (perhaps more) riders! Viktor was the one in the 70's, but he retired many years ago. Vladimir (reserve for the 1987 World Final) will probably be the one that may be riding now, although it could be another generation. Steve

I agree there, but I think you must have missed something, as Bobby Schwartz has already been mentioned. Oh,and speedyguy, you are absolutely spot-on with Mike Faria. He started in 1975, so is definitely another four-decade man. I'll check into the others. Steve

Just thought of a couple more Americans; Shawn McConnell (racing since 1974), and Kelly Moran, who made a brief comeback in 2003. Then, we have Rob Hollingworth, and also (I believe) Malcolm Holloway. Steve

He did start in 1957, but it wasn't just "special meetings" in which he rode in the 80's; he rode BL until 1981, if I can remember correctly. I certainly don't think he rode into the 90's, except maybe for an occasional exhibition ride. Steve

Perfectly correct, that man. Certainly one that who crossed my mind, but I don't think he made it into the 80's. Good call, as he was obviously riding back home before he got here in 1950. Just had a thought, has anyone mentioned a certain Mr Mauger??? Steve

That's right; I don't ever recall seeing Cyril ride. Other names that haven't yet been mentioned are Malcolm Simmons, Gordon Kennett, and Nigel Boocock, all who managed four decades. Steve

In that case, we should include Markku Helminen (Leicester) also... Oh, and Bob Mark... Steve

Can't exactly remember when, but quite a few years ago now, Kev. Steve

Better say Wal Morton before someone else does... Oh, plus the Collins boys (Les and Neil), Olle Nygren, Bobby Schwartz, to name four. Steve