briggo Posted Sunday at 07:09 PM Report Share Posted Sunday at 07:09 PM I was watching the American Pickers TV series on Sky History channel (Season 26 episode 9) when they mentioned visiting a guy called Ernie Roccio. My interest peeked as I knew the history of the famed Dons rider who sadly lost his life at West Ham in 1952. This guy turned out to be his nephew also called Ernie, and was actually named after the famed speedway rider. His dad was John Roccio, who also raced back in the late 40’s and early 50’s with Ernie, but I don’t think he raced over here. Anyway, he had lots of his dad’s and uncle’s racing memorabilia, including photos, leathers, a Monarchs roll neck racing top (would that be Edinburgh?) and even racing licences for Shelbourne speedway. Well worth a watch Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
briggo Posted Sunday at 07:19 PM Author Report Share Posted Sunday at 07:19 PM Somehow I’ve double posted this thread, DOH! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
BL65 Posted yesterday at 07:23 AM Report Share Posted yesterday at 07:23 AM John Roccio rode for Shelbourne Tigers in 1952, along with Ernie. He raced on several British tracks that year, when the team was usually referred to as 'Americans' or 'American Touring Team'. (Shelbourne book is available on Amazon). Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
bigdave Posted 17 hours ago Report Share Posted 17 hours ago Taken from the Speedway Riders Index 1929-2022: Ernest Thomas (Ernie) ROCCIO Born: 16 September 1927, Los Angeles, California, USA. Died: 23 July 1952 - following a track crash at West Ham. Career record: (1950-52) Wimbledon. Individual honours: World Final, 1951 (15th). Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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