Ray Stadia

Massey Ferguson?

However, from speedway's low point in 1958 the sport became healthier, but I think the average speedway fan, at present, can only see the sport declining further. Is the sport in a healthier state in 2017, than 2016, 2015, 2014.......in my opinion, it is worse.

I remember years ago, looking at the riders in the Rayleigh pits, when most of the boys had 2 valve Jawas, they used to take their plugs out and screw them into a long thin cylinder and shake the plug and cylinder for several minutes. What was in the cylinder and did it really rejuvenate the plug?

On that basis, speedway spares suppliers must be operating a Cartel, allegedly, which if I am right, is illegal.

With all the different racing engines there are, not just speedway, surely NGK are not the only plug manufacturer for a speedway engine? What about a good old Lodge spark plug? I bet JAP and Rudge engines used them! And they are a nice pink colour!

Trouble is, that stadium has the Sword of Damocles hanging over it too!

It doesn't detract from the fact that speedway is in a hell of a mess though, does it? I know you are a 'glass is half full' kind of guy, but even your sanguine feelings must be being tested?

To be fair to TWK, he hasn't said speedway would be better if it was noisier and hot dogs tasted better. But it is a fact far less people go and watch and yes, we shouldn't stand still with technology. Something is wrong somewhere, I think we can all agree on that, surely? For me, I think it is an expensive night out, for what you get. The team identity is definitely a problem. I think a second half event should be part of the programme, although I do accept curfews can be an issue, but that could be accommodated better, if the meeting was more seamless. Regarding the analogy of IBM computers and Nokia phones, these have become cheaper to buy and with more benefits and entertainment value, has the same happened in speedway?

But they brought in oil catchers a long time ago!

I didn't know that. Is that due to the engineering tolerances being tighter? It's been a while since I have seen a speedway piston, but I am not sure if they used to have an oil ring? Or not one like you would see in a car engine, as I recall. Maybe the rings used are different today?

To be fair, most of the above still exists, but not the smell of castor oil! The burger bars smell more than the fumes of burning castor oil! Now, some people on the forum will say, 'castor oil doesn't protect the modern speedway engine nowadays', That is odd, as the engines, mechanically, are virtually the same as when speedway began. Would it be logical to suggest then, that the reason we have lost the widespread use of castor oil, is due to the riders and the tuners. So once again, bugger the paying punters and what they want.

I have mentioned it before and been shot down in flames (not by you TWK), but the lack of/reduction of, the smell of castor oil in the air, hasn't done speedway any favours in the modern era, IMO. The last time I mentioned it I got crass comments, such as 'I think I have a can of Castrol 'R' in my garage somewhere, perhaps I can soak a rag and set fire to it'. Just another nail in the.......

Let's hope it's not like the Don McLean song......'The Day Swindon Speedway Died'!

Regarding Wimbledon.....I once saw John Davis fall off during the pre-meeting rider parade and no helmet on! What's this got to do with anything? Nothing really!

Sad news. RIP Bryn.

That kind of thing normally happens to me Mike! On this occasion, I started watching in the 60s, Rayleigh. However, I would say the last 2 seasons Rayleigh raced, 72/73, the crowds were often poor.

Best wishes Bryn. Speedy recovery. Clive

I am currently reading Simon Wigg's book, which is an eyeopener. By the way Steve, is the highlighted sentence above a euphemism?

I am sorry to hear of the passing of Dave Lanning. In my opinion a great speedway presenter. I know there were many 'Lanningisms' on 'World of Sport', but that made it even more entertaining.

I only went to Sheffield once (so far), in 1985 while on a business trip. Martin Hagon was riding in the team then. Great banked track as I remember! If Ken was one of the track guys then, thanks Ken. I had a great evening!

Ouch!

Trouble is, it won't be long before they are the only people watching speedway!

I think ex-Grasstrack riders should get in for free!

I blame it on the EU referendum....people are getting very tetchy and sensitive!

However,as we know, in this country, sexual activity by an adult with a young person under 16 is treated very severely and does not allow for special circumstances. Although it's not black or white, in terms of whether it is an offence, it is. If you are a male age 16 to say 21, I can see how you could easily fall into a bad situation, if you are either told lies or just assume. But over 21, I am sure you have a good idea yourself. Mind you, a lot of young men these days go for the cougars and MILFS! (so I am told!)