There was some decent racing last night. Despite the nasty pile up in heat 2 and the multiple tape infringements, the meeting was finished by 9.45. The best decision of the night Was not to have an interval.
Len is an old style speedway promoter that likes to run meetings every week. Not many tracks have the fan base to support filler meetings in sufficient numbers to make them viable.
I agree far too many re runs last night, still the meeting was still done and dusted by just after 9.30. Two hours is the norm for most meetings at all levels.
Iwade has just turned into lydd, but with an air fence. A shame, because both tracks are great training venues for young riders. Both are unappreciated by the powers that be.
in the early 1930's I reckon. The first badge was made by pullen, the second by the birmingham medal company. Who commissioned it and why, I do not know. It must have been the first ever speedway reissue. Maybe there was a demand by riders and fans who were present at the first meeting.
Jon Cook said in his programme notes last night, that the fans need to support the club at a time when it's needed the most. A bit ominous after only a couple of home meetings.
It varied depending on the opposition. About 750 on a bad day up to 1500 for the likes of poole. It's early days for the hammers regarding crowd levels. Two challenge matches and a league match going up against the football will not give a true reflection. The mildenhall meeting in a couple of weeks time should be a better guide.
I have the original badge from the first ever meeting at high beech in my collection. I'm not sure if it was just issued to officials and possibly riders. The first version of the badge has a rider sitting on a road bike, the later reissue has a speedway rider broadsiding. Both versions are very rare.
From a very good start, the crowds at the last few meetings I have attended have declined. This usually happens every season when the enthusiasm wears off.