BigFatDave

Couldn't agree more. Its a big gap between Millennium and the run-down Dog Tracks (Oooops nearly forgot the Monarchs) and Goat Tracks that make up British Speedway Stadiums.

He's still around, WWTBP, here's the Tennant Creek and District Times: TENNANT Creek Speedway’s 24 October Bike Meet honoured Don “Sheppy” Sheppard, who contributed to the advancement of Solo and Sidecar competition for many years. He leaves town with many written tributes from around the country and locals. The Club greatly appreciated the attendance of locals, territory and interstate travellers including track steward Ian Jordan from MANT. It was emotional for the veterans with many spectators for the first time feeling the engine roar and sheer speed of these amazing machines. Solo Riders from Alice Springs Ryan Wark, Phil Miner, Ben Lennon and Peter Henderson lined up with one lone local Kerrin Giezendanner. Fast starts saw many hearts miss a beat for these no-brake machines, however in all heats local rider Kerrin Giezendanner dominated. Phil, Ben, Peter and Ryan all fought for the remaining positions with racing close and hard. The Finals saw Kerrin first and Ben second. Side Car Riders were Darwin Shane O’Connell, Joe VVhite, Perth Yancy Lee-Ross, Alice Springs Brian and Arlen Carragher, Cameron Miller, Marcus Seider, Gove Brendon Edge, Cassy Hall and local boys Shane Cramp and Aiden James. Again fast starts and wheel to wheel racing, many rubs and bumps with a few swingers going for a dirt slide. The Finals saw Joe/Shane take the win, with Shayne O’Connell/Yancy second and Brendon/Cassy third. Don't forget there's a meeting for solos and sidecars at Alice Springs Feb 6th, he'll be there for sure, as will spiderweb in his new role as Ronny Parker's "Manager".

Best of Antipodean Luck, Tomas!! The chance of another match race between messrs Crump & Zagar should make this a must-see meeting. The track is usually well-prepared and should provide plenty of excitement; Rob Lyon's young GB side can only improve next year and as long as they get the temporary stands sorted it should be a Ripper!

I remember Matt Johnson as a youngster riding at Northline when we still had solos & sidecars up here, then hearing stories about his exploits in Europe, both riding and spannering. His riding career was cut short by a major road racing accident; he's currently manager/general dogsbody at a Darwin motorcycle dealership, Motorcycle Territory.

Interesting fellow your rellie - my fave cartoonist'd hafta be Gilbert Shelton - creator of the Fabs.

That's as maybe, dirt, but why ignore the claims of established Pl riders like Smith, Sweetman, Grajczonek, Sedgmen J etc and seed a basically untried rider in Sam. Doyley is a dead-set EL rider coming back after a year off who's supported Ozchamps for years; no qualms with him being a chosen one! No lotsa Aussies, Vicar (Any relation to John Foster Hall?? Good Evening, Vicar!!). No Doolan, Lyons, Johnno, etc, etc. Maybe these guys need a rest (and a bit of Warmth)? No Hugh Skidmore which is disappointing.

Interesting post; I reckon Doyley deserves to go straight in meself. You're right on both other counts: Justin Sedgmen on this year's form should have been seeded IMO, and no sign of as you say a coupla good 'uns in the Qualifier. Did Nick apply? Can't understand him not being there. Farewell year for Lemo? He's always been a supporter of Ozchamps. Now I've gotta change me travel plans again - wouldn't miss the qualifier for quids!!

I'd imagine they'd be at Mildura season opener.

Is it warm yet? Not coming down until it is! It should be a ripper at Gillie tonight, then on up to Millie for the season opener? I hear Bryn's heading to Qld to check out young Darcy in the Titles next week. Has anyone warned Trackman to hide his boat?

..........bet there's not much mince in that pie.................

...and did we stay up to watch the Rugby, Brynbach? Cheer up, I'll try & get someone to buy ya a Bundy!!

Think I was in the middle of Section A, up the back near one of the bars.

Thanks for that Phil. Any news on Arthur and his Red Bull Road Racing career?? Will he be lost to us?? See you at Gillman in January

\ Bomber is in the series 'cos he's the British Champ; get behind your Champion, FFS! Tai's in the series 'cos he's the best thing to come outta Pomgolia since the First Fleet.

Looks like he had a good night out, Chopper. Results (thanks to Gillman Speedway) Good to see the evergreen - some say a bit mouldy - Prince of Port Adelaide back for yet another comeback, ably assisted by his new manager and general dogsbody - Spiderweb!!.

Silly me, I thought they were representing GB.

Couldn't agree more with that part of your post - one of the best races I've ever been fortunate enough to witness. Well done to Bomber and Tai. Could be make or break for Bomber in the GPs this upcoming season; I'm sure he isn't happy about his results since Cardiff 2007 and equally convinced he still has the desire to do better. Tai's selection is thoroughly deserved; he more than anyone else is the future of British Speedway, and unlike any other GB riders comes with no excess baggage. You mob should get behind him rather than concentrating on running him down at every opportunity. I look forward to seeing both of them in the GPs not only next season but for a few more to come, especially in Oz March 2011.

No qualifying meeting this year - so far!! Might be a bit early for Robert, rebelknight. Still no word from Leigh Adams on whether he'll ride this year.

Time for a run in the Seniors for Robert Branford, son of our distinguished forum Member Chopper. He'll be up against the Sedgmen Bros, among others. Best of luck, Robert!! http://www.gillmanspeedway.com/release.asp?NewsId=33296

Gillman (Adelaide) is definitely firming as a probable in 2011, with plenty of temporary stands. If they add it on to the end of the calendar it doesn't clash with any major sporting events which should guarantee interest. The track is superb and as was proved on saturday night (Oct 31st) with the Gillman Classic the weather would be OK. IMG have sat back and had a look since they bought the series; I think they'd know by now what's broke and what's not. Three GPs in Poland is one too many in my book, and the thought of an extra GP in the UK doesn't go down too well either!!

Plus there's qualifying for the GPs to be taken into consideration as well, Sandie. What's he done to himself THIS time? And will you be venturing south for the Winter? I hear its Seriously COLD over there?

Leigh Adams has confirmed he'll be "sitting this one out" although for him that means probably double- or triple-duty in the pits helping out Australia's young talent. 2010 Gp newcomer Chris Holder, Rory Schlein, Troy Batchelor, and World Under-21 Champ Darcy Ward look the pick, but nominations are still open so we won't know the field for a little while longer. Go the Sedgmen Bros!! In the meantime I'm looking forward to giving the TravelPlus Tourists a hand in understanding our quaint local customs!!

Nice piccy of the Grandstand, Lawrence, but that's about it so far.

IMG looking at Oz for 2011, nosing around most tracks capable of holding a GP, Gillman a definite option, tho' they'd hafta bring in a whole heap of temporary seating. Still cold down there in November, but. A little bit of work on turn one and Homebush in Sydney would be a definite option.

IMG looking at Oz for 2011, nosing around most tracks capable of holding a GP, Gillman a definite option, tho' they'd hafta bring in a whole heap of temporary seating. Still cold down there in November, but. A little bit of work on turn one and Homebush in Sydney would be a definite option.