Speedway's Rich History Celebrated in Broxbourne This Weekend
The thrilling and action-packed sport of speedway will see its vibrant history honored by enthusiasts from across the nation in Broxbourne, Hertfordshire, this weekend. On Sunday, March 1, hundreds of fans are expected to attend the Celebration of Speedway, an annual event organized and hosted at the World Speedway Riders' Association (WSRA) headquarters. This gathering marks the first major occasion on the calendar ahead of the new season's commencement.
Event Details and Special Guests
The celebration will take place at the National Speedway Museum, located within the grounds of Hertfordshire Zoo, which is owned by former rider Peter Sampson and his family. This year, the event boasts two special guests who will meet with fans: track legends Chris Harris and Scott Nicholls. Together, they have secured the British Championship ten times, solidifying their status as icons in the sport.
Both Harris, aged 43, and Nicholls, aged 47, remain prominent figures in speedway despite being in their 40s. They are currently preparing for the opening meetings of the upcoming season next month. Harris will be riding for top-flight teams King’s Lynn and Championship Glasgow, while Nicholls returns to second-tier Plymouth for his second season.
Historical Significance and Fan Engagement
WSRA chairman Bert Harkins expressed enthusiasm about the event, stating, "It is terrific news that both of them will be at the Celebration of Speedway, which has become one of the must-go-to events of the year." He highlighted Harris's memorable victory at the British GP in Cardiff's Millennium Stadium in 2007, witnessed by nearly 50,000 supporters. Harkins added that Harris will bring his family but will still have ample time for autographs, selfies, and fan interactions.
The WSRA event traditionally serves as a curtain-raiser for the new season, commemorating the birthplace of speedway 98 years ago. The first properly licensed meeting occurred at High Beech, near Waltham Abbey, on February 19, 1928. Initially, a tribute was held at the Epping Forest site before relocating to the WSRA National Speedway Museum. This year marks a double celebration, as it will be the 20th Celebration of Speedway at Hertfordshire Zoo.
Additional Highlights and Attendees
Beyond Harris and Nicholls, at least nine former Rye House favorites are set to attend, including Karl Fiala from the 1980 title-winning side, 50s stars Mike Broadbank, Peter Sampson, and Bill Wainwright, and others like Peter Schroeck, Lawrence Hare, Troy Pratt, Robert Mear, and Ben Morley. Other confirmed guests feature 1972 World Pairs champion Terry Betts, Denmark's ex-international rider Jan Stæchmann, and Great Britain World Cup Finalists Paul Hurry and Dean Barker, along with current stars such as Nicolai Klindt, Jody Scott, Cooper Rushen, Jason Edwards, Ashton Vale, and Max Broadhurst.
WSRA president Barney Kennett remarked, "We have never had so many big names come along, and it’s pleasing to see that riders just starting out on their careers are coming as well as the names that pulled in the fans in years gone by." He emphasized that no other event rivals the Celebration of Speedway, especially with the sport's centenary approaching.
Exhibits and Activities
The event will not only feature speedway legends but also showcase scores of pristine or restored bikes, some dating back to the pioneer days of dirt track racing. These bikes will be on display and warmed up throughout the day. Five special prizes will be awarded for the best exhibit, and VIP guests will be interviewed on stage by former Rye House presenter Craig Saul.
Exhibitors will sell a variety of items, from books and speedway package trips to Grand Prix meetings across Europe, as well as collectors' merchandise. The National Speedway Museum, which traces speedway's history from its inception to the present day, will be open free to all visitors. An auto-jumble will also offer equipment and spare parts for sale.
Harkins concluded, "If you are a speedway fan, old or new, there’s only one place to be on Sunday." The event runs from 10am to 4pm, with admission priced at £15 and free entry for children under two.
