steve roberts

I also think that the 1972 Final had everything...drama, controversy and some good racing.

I've just finished reading Bert Harkins' book and it made for an interesting read especially his year spent riding in America when it was decided to run with a league. Full of anecdotes about his time racing around the world and well worth a read for those interested in the bigger picture!

Working at the Viking Centre in York I have adopted the name Svein in memory of him. Gone but not forgotten.

..Yes but is it not true that in some rounds riders are seeded as was the case with this year's German Grand Prix?

...except, of course, the GPs run, or used to run, with a system of Wild Cards and/or riders who are/were purely there for home interest and/or boosting television viewing figures or has that system been scrapped?

...Personally I think that only the top three should automatically qualify but I guess that would create enormous problems with logistics and time scales I would imagine? I seem to remember that this was discussed at some time during the past?

...I recall that there was a Grand Prix Challenge that allowed a number to qualify but that a certain number retained their place based on finishing positions. Is that still the system in place today or is it more complex than that which allows competitors to compete in a series of qualifying meetings? (one question mark!) It's a point that Ivan Mauger was always keen to highlight in the past whenever the subject was broached.

...If I recalll towards the latter days of the one-off World Finals it was decided to run with two semi-finals so as to allow a better system of qualification rather than he old sysem of running a Continental Final which allowed a direct route for the Eastern Bloc countries. Not sure how many years that ran for before the GPs kicked in?

...that's not the question I asked. I was generally interested in knowing what the number was as I have no idea.

...How many automatically qualify for the following year's competition based on their overall finishing position?

...or British League successes. I'm of the John Berry ilk. I don't just grade great riders on individual championships alone but their all round contribution whether as an individual or a team player. However can't comment on Tai as I've never seen him ride but saw his dad, Rob, often.

The GP series is basically an 'invitation' series of meetings as was often stated by no greater rider than Ivan Mauger himself.

Another great edition...particularly enjoyed the interview with one time 'Cheetah' Mick Handley!

Just been re-reading Eric Boocock's autobiography "Booey- Around In Circles" and the chapter regarding his taking over the Aces made interesting reading. Considering that he was referring to 1975 his comments were that the stadium was shabby even then and needed serious attention and wouldn't have passed Health & Safety requirements (especially after the Bradford City tragedy) today. However he does confirm what we all know is that the racing was first class and offered many different racing lines. He continued to comment that no matter how good the stadium was/is if the racing wasn't/isn't upto scratch then it's all for nought...contentious view but one I agree with to an extent.

Amazing to think that I created this particular thread nearly three years ago now...and it's still nowhere near being resolved despite all the promises!

Personally I've never really understood the fixation about the quality of the racing over many year since the introduction of speedway as a form of entertainment. It's always been variable and much of it based upon the type and shape of track and machinery and many other criteria which often dictates the standard of racing.There were good and not so good racks in my years following he sport and no doubt the same applies today. I've just re-read an interview with Joe Screen who mentioned that during his career dirt became somewhat scarce when 'lay-down' engines were introduced because they couldn't perform efficiently on heavy tracks thereby tracks became a lot slicker and racing suffered.

Good news with caution.

...If I recall something akin to that suggestion was in place some years ago now and quickly forgotten?

Wembley was never a particularly good racing track...too flat although apparently was the same shape as Dudley Wood. However despite the anticipated starts the 1972 World Final must go down as one of the classics with all the drama that unfolded which always adds to the overall experience and excitement whatever the meeting however important in the grand scheme of things. I remember watching the highlights on ITV (yes terrestrial TV in those day!) later that same evening.

I recall reading an article that said that she is now a qualified chef after following a modelling career.

Remember him at Cowley. Gone but not forgotten. RIP

...Hans Nielsen was the best team rider that I'd seen although I hate to admit it Ole Olsen wasn't bad! Although I only saw Ronnie Moore during his last full season in Britain (1972) many acknowledge him as one of the best of all time. Could be the start of another interesting thread...Team Riding exponents?

...I would agree entirely.

...agree totally!

...Agree entirely or even the much maligned Mike Parker who drove things forward during the early middle sixties when speedway was in the doldrums when he was the prime mover in instigating the Provincial League.