Ernie Roccio - American Pickers

[briggo]

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

[briggo]

Somehow I’ve double posted this thread, DOH!

[BL65]

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).

[bigdave]

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).

[Knowle]

I saw both the Roccios Ernie and Johnny plus  fellow American Nick Nicoliades (spelling?) racing for Wimbledon in a challenge match at Bristol on 23/3/1951 when each team tracked 10 riders. This match replaced a Festival Of Britain Trophy match against the same team the series of which was cancelled at a late hour in a dispute over financial terms.