All Time Greats Grand Prix Series

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Heat Nine
6 Red Jason Crump
16 Blue Sam Ermelenko
1 White Jerzy Szczakiel
11 Yellow Jack Milne

On the track
There is a great deal of fussing at the tapes – all four riders crowding each other – having to be spoken to by the Starting Marshall – who is irritated by the lack of cooperation by the competitors – eventually all four are ready to race

Szczakiel once more makes the gate – Ermelenko baulks Jason Crump – Jack Milne tucks in behind Ermelenko and the Pole entering bend one

Crump is at the back turning into bend two – Szczakiel slightly ahead of Ermelenko- onto the back straight – Jack Milne over the Sam’s shoulder – Crump pushing to the highline – turns the power on driving down the back straight in pursuit of the leaders

Szczakiel holds off the charge of the Americans – entering bend three slightly ahead – Crump takes to the boards – sweeping down as all the riders make their way out of bend four onto the home straight into lap 2

Crump picks up drive along the home straight – is now on the rear wheel of Milne –who is alongside Ermelenko – following Szczakiel into bend one (lap2) – Crump takes it wide into the bend – bearing down on Ermelenko and Milne exiting bend two (lap2)
Szczakiel moves off his line entering the back straight - Milne goes for the gap – Ermelenko for midtrack – in a pincer movement designed to clip the wings of Szcszakiel – Milne is under the Pole as Ermelenko rounds Szczakiel

Crump taking opportunity presented – drives between Ermelenko and the fence – passing the American who is concentrating on the Pole – Crump coming into contact with Jack Milne entering bend three (lap2) – the American baulking Crump’s run

Milne makes his turn into bend four (lap2) – as Crump cuts back in under the senior American rider – to prevent Ermelenko coming through on the inside to link up with Milne – who is entering the home straight into lap 3

Milne leads along the home straight – Crump is right behind him – Ermelenko is alongside Szczakiel – who decides to push under Sam entering bend one (lap3)
Crump has taken to the boards again – making a deep turn – in order to drive out of bend two (lap3) – ahead of Milne

Milne is up to the challenge driving forward down the back straight – maintaining his lead over the Australian breathing down his nec- Ermelenko has his hands full with Szczakiel who is level with the junior American along the back straight

Milne makes his way into bend three (lap3) – Crump over his shoulder mid track – pulling a cute turn back in – on the apex of the bend – sliding underneath Milne – who’s momentum carries mid track – exiting bend four (lap3)

Crump draws level with Milne on the home straight – Szczakiel has bettered Ermelenko through the last two bends emerging ahead of Sam on the straight into lap 4 - Milne drives forward into bend one (lap4) – Crump pushing him hard into the turn into bend two (lap4) – emerging onto the home straight still level with each other

A frustrated Ermelenko presses the issue with the Pole down the home straight – drawing on level terms – as Crump and Milne glide into bend three (lap4) – locked in an embrace – that carries them through bend four (lap4) onto the home straight
Crump and Milne thrust forward towards the line – as do Ermelenko and Szczakiel locked together exiting the last bend

In a seemingly slow motion Crump and Milne drift towards the line – the man with the chequered flag is waving through Jack Milne half a wheel width ahead of Crump followed by Jerzy Szczakiel holding off a last frenetic assault by Sam Ermelenko

Jack Milne 3 – Jason Crump 2 – Jerzy Szczakiel 1 – Sam Ermelenko 0

‘An amazing ride from Jack Milne,’ gasped Kelvin, ‘holding off Jason Crump.’
‘Szczakiel did well keeping Sam Ermelenko at bay,’ said Pearson
‘Things are looking good for Jack Milne but I am not so certain about Sam Ermelenko,’ said Kelvin.
‘Jason Crump has got to be satisfied with second place,’ said Nigel, ‘but I suspect he would have much preferred to reel in all three points.’
‘Ole Olsen needs to reel is some more points in this one,’ observed Kelvin, ‘but he’s up against a real trio of riders wanting points for various reasons.’
‘This one is going to be a real nail biter all the way,’ said Nigel.

Heat Ten
12 Red Ole Olsen
5 Blue Ove Fundin
15 White Anders Michanek
2 Yellow Per Jonsson

On the track
There is nothing between Olsen and Fundin as they drive to the first bend – Michanek did try to split the pair but failed – allowing Jonsson to cut in behind Olsen and Fundin – exiting bend two

Olsen is in front down the back straight – Fundin sitting tight on the Dane’s back wheel – Jonsson blocking Michanek’s surge down the straight – Olsen makes it into bend three – turning into bend four – Fundin coming under him – the Dane closing the door entering onto the home straight into lap two

Olsen drives into bend one (lap2) – Fundin bides his time – Michanek is over Jonsson’s shoulder into the bend – turning in sharp to cut in under the junior Swede exiting bend two (lap2) – Jonsson closing the door on Anders

Down the back straight Olsen keeps tight on the line – Fundin watching the Dane’s every move – looking back to see Michanek launching another assault on Jonsson

Into bend three (lap2) – Olsen stays glued to the line – Fundin goes mid track – turning into bend four (lap2) – probing under Olsen – the Dane stays on the line into lap 3 – Michanek turns sharp out of bend four drawing alongside Jonsson also stuck on the line

Olsen turns into bend one (lap3) – Fundin feints to go round Olsen – the Dane moves off his line – to block this move – the senior Swede surges forward under Olsen – buffeting him mid track exiting bend two (lap3)

Olsen slows momentarily – Jonsson seizes opportunity – following through in Fundin’s tyre tracks – Michanek makes to go round Olsen between the Dane and the fence – Olsen blocking this move – surging forward in chase of Fundin and the intervening Jonsson along the back straight

Olsen shows his determination - by driving high into bend three (lap3) – coming down hard on Jonsson – driving under the junior Swede – exiting bend four (lap3) ahead of Jonsson – who has Michanek appearing over his shoulder on the home straight into lap 4

Fundin is into bend one (lap4) – Olsen drives into the turn flat out – making his turn on the apex of the corner – thrusts forward intent on making ground up on Fundin now exiting bend two (lap4) – Michanek levels with Jonsson on the back straight

Olsen rides down the back straight like a man possessed – turning into bend three (lap4) – determined to give it one last fling – driving under Fundin entering bend four (lap4) – the senior Swede refuses to budge – pressing on over the line followed by Olsen just managing to hold off a determined attempt by Jonsson to pass him

Ove Fundin 3 – Ole Olsen 2 – Per Jonsson 1 – Anders Michanek 0

‘That race seemed to knock the stuffing out of Olsen,’ observed Pearson.
‘He thought that once he’d outgated Fundin that the race was his,’ said Kelvin.
‘He should have known that Fundin wouldn’t give up till they crossed the finish line.’
‘Jonsson didn’t give up when Michanek was roughing up on the last lap,’ said Nigel.

‘There is still chance for Olsen to pick up six points in his last two races,’ said Kelvin.
‘That’s if he can get past Ivan Mauger,’ said Nigel, ‘ who is in great form tonight.’
‘Mauger will have his work cut out in this one Nigel,’ said Kelvin, ‘up against Jack Young and Peter Craven both chasing big points and there is Egon Muller thrown in there for good measure.’
‘Should be a cracker Kelvin,’ said Nigel!!!

Heat Eleven
8 Red Egon Muller
9 Blue Jack Young
3 White Peter Craven
14 Yellow Ivan Mauger

On the track
Double World Champion Peter Craven touches Double World Champion Jack Young on the shoulder – as he passes the Australian on the way to the tapes – Young nods to the Belle Vue Ace in passing - Ivan Mauger views these gestures with some suspicion

The tapes rise – Mauger flies out of the tapes – no doubt in anticipation of a stitch up by Young and Craven – clipping Muller’s nose off – as the German races to the line
Young and Craven are locked together exiting bend two in pursuit of Muller and Mauger down the back straight

Both double world champions - revelling in this moment – when they can ride together again - after all these years – pass either side of Muller – turning into bend three leaving the German – to work out where they came from

Mauger is out of bend four along the home straight into lap 2 – the two double champions side by side – turning into bend one (lap2) – Mauger never the romantic – sticks close to the line out of bend two (lap2) – down the back straight

Craven and Young are in full pursuit of the Kiwi champion – with Muller unable to find away through this duo of champions – Mauger is into bend three (lap2) – the point where Young turns in hard entering bend four (lap2)

Young is pushing under Mauger – who stays on the line - Craven is over Mauger’s shoulder – with the Kiwi driving on over the line into lap 3 – Young is on Mauger’s rear wheel – Craven picking up drive pushing on almost level with the Kiwi

Mauger cuts in tight to the line into bend one (lap3) – ensuring Young can’t thrust up the inside – while the Kiwi’s power takes him through bend two (lap3) – ahead of Craven broad-siding out of the corner into the back straight – Muller stays at the back

Mauger is flat out along the straight into bend three (lap3) – Young on the line probes under the Kiwi – Craven favours a sweep round the boards
Muller has the temerity – to cut in under the British rider – which seems to concern the Belle Vue Ace not at all – Craven sweeps down from the boards under the German along side Young still stuck to Mauger’s back wheel exiting bend four (lap3)

Mauger is still in command of the race along the home straight into lap four – with Young right there behind him – Craven mid track – holding off the probing of Muller

Mauger is through bends 1+2 (lap4) without mishap – though the double champions know they are running out of time – as all four riders enter bend three (lap4) – one after the other – with Mauger in no mood to give way to sentimentality – for Ivan too is on a mission of his own

All the riders exit bend four (lap4) – Mauger is ahead powering towards the line – followed by the double champions – Muller at the rear – Mauger crosses over first
The video implied a dead heat between Young and Craven but the referee called it: -

Ivan Mauger 3 – Jack Young 2 – Peter Craven 1 – Egon Muller 0

Peter Craven and Jack Young shook hands with each other as they rode round the back straight on their way to the pits

‘It was great to see Young and Craven in action again with each other,’ said Pearson.
‘Yes it was,’ said Kelvin, ‘but neither of them had any answer for the sharp gating of Ivan Mauger.’
‘Both Mauger and Fundin are on nine points,’ said Nigel. ‘We could be heading for a clash of the giants before the end of the evening.’

‘A lot of things can still go wrong for both of them,’ said Kelvin.
‘We will have to wait and see what fate delivers them. There are some desperate riders out there looking for points anyone of them can take an important point off either Fundin or Ivan Mauger’
‘All the riders in heat twelve are desperate for points for one reason or another,’ said Pearson. Billy Hamill and Gary Havelock have yet to score, Jan O Pedersen and Tommy Price are on one point apiece.’

Heat Twelve
13 Red Billy Hamill
4 Blue Gary Havelock
10 White Jan O Pedersen
7 Yellow Tommy Price

On the track
Billy Hamill was sharp from the gate – with his nose on the line – and into the first bend with Havelock tucked in behind him – Jan O Pedersen held Tommy Price’s charge off – round the outside

Exiting the second bend Hamill was in front – Havelock on his back wheel – Pedersen mid track – keeping Price from overtaking on the outside

Through bends 3+4 and into lap 2 the situation remained constant – Hamill driving hard into bend one (lap2) – Havelock turning with him – Pedersen going wide –
Price was making another assault on the outside

Price cut in on Pedersen coming out of the second bend (lap2) – nosing under the Dane – drawing level with him along the back straight – Hamill holding his line going into bend three (lap2) – Havelock waiting for a mistake

Pedersen re-passing Price - Hamill keeping it tight through bend four (lap2) – Havelock content to stay where he was for the moment – into lap 3 – Pedersen still holding of a determined attack by Price – Hamill into bend one (lap3)

Havelock still there – Price thunders past Pedersen out of bend two (lap3) – along the back straight - Hamill makes his way into be bend three (lap3) – Havelock sensing someone is arriving - over his shoulder – Price – moves off his line to block the expected move

Price is moving under Havelock – who cuts back sharp to the line – entering bend four (lap4) – Havelock remains ahead of Price along the straight into lap 4
Pedersen is driving along the outside of Price – who is preoccupied with Havelock

Hamill makes his way into bend one (lap4) – looking over his shoulder – to see Havelock still glued to his rear wheel – Hamill slips away from the line entering bend two (lap4)

Havelock probes under the American – who accelerates along the back straight – unwilling to relinquish his lead in this race – makes his turn into bend three (lap4) – as Havelock – as much to prevent a run round the outside by Price – makes a run round the outside – cutting in on the apex of the corner

Havelock charges under Hamill as they enter into the home straight – Price and Pedersen are right behind them – accelerating towards the line – Hamill and Havelock try to outpace each other to the line but it is Havelock taking the chequered flag first
Hamill is a foot behind Havelock – with Tommy Price outpacing Pedersen

Gary Havelock 3 – Billy Hamill 2 – Tommy Price 1 – Jan O Pedersen 0

‘Gary Havelock will be very grateful for those three points,’ said Pearson.
‘Billy Hamill will be cursing his luck,’ said Kelvin, ‘he will see that has one precious point dropped rather than two points gained.’
‘It’s time to take stock of the situation so far,’ said Nigel, ‘so we will hand back to the studio to see what Keith, Chris and Mark have to say about things.’

‘We will presume gentlemen,’ said Keith, ‘that Ove Fundin, Ivan Mauger, Ole Olsen and Peter Craven will make it to the Grand Final. So the question is who will fill the other four places. Will it be four more riders from Group B or, will any of them here be outscored by a rider from Group A. Questions, questions, questions???’

‘Jack Milne, Jack Young, Jason Crump and Sam Ermelenko,’ said Chris Louis.
‘Peter Collins, Michael Lee, Freddie Williams,’ said Mark Loram, ‘and Jack Milne at a pinch!!!’
‘I see you are sticking with all the British riders from Group A Mark,’ said Keith, ‘very noble and very loyal too I might add. But the difference of opinion between Chris and Mark highlights how really tight it’s going to be at the bottom end of the score chart.

‘We’re not going to really know how things will pan out till the end of the meeting,’ said Chris Louis. ‘The bonus points gained for finishing in a certain place on tonight’s finishing scoreboard and on the over all finishing scoreboard will have a great bearing on who is in and who is out.’

‘That’s why we’re not going to get entangled in mystical mathematical equations,’ said Keith, ‘not unless you want to do some wondrous working out for us.’
‘No it’s ok Keith,’ chuckled Nigel. ‘Anyway we don’t have time as already the riders are on the track for what is likely to be a tremendous heat of speedway racing.’

‘I imagine you’re right about that,’ said Kelvin. ‘Ivan Mauger, Ole Olsen and Jerzy Szczakiel are ready to renew their old rivalries and I don’t doubt Tommy Price will want to add to that one point he scored in the last race.’

[Deleted]

Heat Thirteen
7 Red Tommy Price
12 Blue Ole Olsen
14 White Ivan Mauger
1 Yellow Jerzy Szczakiel

On the track
Once again Jerzy Szczakiel made the gate first – but Mauger rode forward mid-track baulking the Poles intention of cutting across to the line – meanwhile Olsen was over Tommy Price – turning into the first bend – with Mauger right behind him
Mauger cut in on Price – going into the first bend – leaving the British rider to sort out his place in the race with the Polish rider

Szczakiel was ahead of Price coming out of the second bend – Mauger was right behind Olsen as the Dane shot down the back straight – in an attempt to but daylight between himself and the Kiwi

Olsen drove into bend three tight to the line – Mauger probing on the outside – and again on the inside as the Dane went out of bend four along the straight into lap 2

Szczakiel was giving Tommy Price a hard time as they followed the leaders into bend one (lap 2) – Olsen blocked Mauger’s advance round the outside of the Dane – on exiting bend two (lap2)

Along the back straight Olsen kept his concentration – held hard to the line – Mauger probing again on the outside – the Dane drove into bend three (lap2) – controlled his exit of bend four (lap2) – onto the home straight into lap 3

If Mauger was content with his second place – Olsen – for one – wasn’t inclined to believe it – as he rode tidily into bend one (lap3) – maintaining his control through bend two (lap3) – down the back straight – Mauger still sat comfortably behind him

Through bends 3+4 (lap3) and down the straight into lap 4 – Olsen seemed unlikely to be bothered by Mauger – the crowd more interested in what was happening with Szczakiel and Price – still struggling with each other half a lap behind the leaders

Into bend one (lap4) Olsen rode without any attack from Mauger – the same again through bend two (lap4) – along the back straight – Mauger – having held something in reserve - suddenly turned on the power of his machine

The Kiwi world champion drove under Olsen – entering bend three (lap4) – pressing the move – Olsen was shunted off his line – Mauger making his turn into bend four (lap4) – drove further under Olsen – unsettled the senior Danish world champion

Out onto the straight Mauger was ahead of Olsen – both riding hard for the line – Mauger timed his move out of bend four perfectly – gained that extra yard on Olsen – maintained an advantage he refused to let go of – crossing the line first

Olsen took second place ahead of Tommy Price who over took the Pole on the outside coming out of bend four – making it to the line a bike length ahead of Szczakiel

Ivan Mauger 3 – Ole Olsen 2 – Tommy Price 1 – Jerzy Szczakiel 0

‘That was very tactically astute of Ivan Mauger don’t you think Kelvin,’ said Pearson.
‘Ivan had Ole thinking he didn’t have the power to make up ground on him,’ said Kelvin. ‘That’s why he left it till the last second to make his move. A move that certainly unnerved Ole Olsen.’

‘If he wasn’t nervous enough already,’ chuckled Nigel. ‘I really don’t think Ole Olsen has done as well has he expected tonight, or in the tournament overall thus far for that matter.’
‘He will make it into the top ten,’ said Kelvin, ‘but I do think he was expecting a higher placing than he might end up with, I agree Nigel.’
‘There are four riders out in the next race Kelvin,’ said Nigel, ‘who can do themselves a power of good points wise especially Jack Milne

Heat Fourteen
2 Red Per Jonsson
13 Blue Billy Hamill
8 White Egon Muller
11 Yellow Jack Milne

On the track
Billy Hamill took care of Per Jonsson from the gate – cutting the junior Swedes nose off – Muller gated between the two Americans – entered the first bend mid track adjacent to Hamill – each of them made their turn to drive into bend two

Jack Milne simply rode directly through the gap between Hamill and Muller – driving into the back straight a bike length ahead of his opponents – with Hamill and Muller still side by side following in his wake – Per Jonsson right behind the pair

Milne rode through bends three and four – Hamill turned through the bends on the inside forcing Muller to go wide – who has Jonsson trying to take advantage of the gap opening up turning onto the home straight – Muller held off the Swede

Milne powered on into bend one (lap2) – turned into bend two – Hamill was right behind the senior American – as all four riders entered the back straight – Jonsson riding the boards in an attempt to get past Muller who rode mid track

Into bend three (lap2) – Milne had time to look over his shoulder – identifying Hamill as the man immediately behind him – the senior American slowed the race down – allowing Hamill to come under him as Milne exited bend four (lap2)

Along the home straight into lap three Hamill and Milne settled into team riding mode – with Muller and Jonsson trading places in their attempt to find a way through the American pairing – to no avail throughout lap three and into lap four

Milne rode the line into bend one (lap4) – with Hamill riding high to block a Muller run round the boards coming out of bend two (lap4) – Hamill rode a little too high – and fell a bike length behind Milne - Per Jonsson accelerated through the gap left by Billy - causing Hamill to abandon thoughts of Muller – entering the back straight

Milne aware of the situation rode mid track baulking Jonsson’s advance – Hamill taking his cue – drove down to the line – linking up with Milne entering bend three (lap4) – with Hamill tight to the line

Milne closed the door on Jonsson’s attempt to cut in – and to drive between the Americans – exiting bend four (lap4) – with the American pair ahead onto the home straight – blocking all the way to the line – attempts by Muller and Jonsson to go by them – with Milne giving way to Hamill who crossed the line first
Egon Muller took advantage of Jonsson being baulked by Milne coming in third

Billy Hamill 3 – Jack Milne 2 – Egon Muller 1 – Per Jonsson 0

‘That win did Billy Hamill a power of good,’ observed Nigel Pearson, ‘but at what cost to Jack Milne?’
‘I don’t think Milne was prepared to abandon Billy,’ decided Kelvin. ‘I think it was a matter of honour for the senior American world champion that he takes care of the well being of his fellow countrymen.’
‘Sam Ermelenko is out in the next race,’ observed Pearson.
‘I don’t think either Ove Fundin or Peter Craven will care too much about the welfare of the American world champion in this one,’ chuckled Kelvin.

Heat Fifteen
16 Red Sam Ermelenko
3 Blue Peter Craven
10 White Jan O Pedersen
5 Yellow Ove Fundin

On the track
Sam Ermelenko wasn’t much concerned with the welfare of Peter Craven or Ove Fundin for that matter – sliding out of the gate ahead of Craven – with Fundin baulked by the unexpected sharp gating of Jan O Pedersen

Ermelenko thundered into the first bend with Pedersen on his back wheel – Craven pushing out into mid track with Fundin – cutting in under the British rider – as the four riders made their turn into bend two

Ermelenko sat tight on the line – Pedersen broad-siding – hanging onto his bike –Fundin going under him – Craven riding the boards outside of the Dane – onto the back straight – Ermelenko thrust forward – with Fundin right behind him – Craven along side Fundin – as they powered towards bend three

Ermelenko made his turn into the bend – Fundin charging under the American at that very point – shoving Sam off his line – while Craven was riding high round the boards – all three making their turn into bend four emerging alongside each other

Into the home straight Fundin powered ahead of Ermelenko – with Craven driving forward on the highline over the line into lap 2 – linking up with Fundin as they made their way into bend one (lap2) – Ermelenko now finding himself embroiled in a battle with Jan O Pedersen

Anyone thinking Fundin and Craven - might indulge in some romantic ‘Big Five’ type team riding exercise - received a rude awakening – as the two champions bumped into each other turning into bend two (lap2)

Fundin was ahead entering the back straight – but Craven was right over the Swedes shoulder – in mid track - looking for opportunity to mix it with his old opponent

Craven rode round the boards into bend three (lap2) – cutting in hard – amazing the crowd with his ability to remain on his bike – while he was going one way – the bike another – picking up grip that thrust him alongside Fundin exiting bend four (lap2) – down the home straight into lap 3

This action galvanised Fundin – to drive tight into bend one (lap3) – Craven cutting in again to exit bend two (lap3) – half a bike length behind the Swede – who was powering on down the back straight – diving into bend three (lap3) – turning hard into bend four (lap3) – with Craven sticking close behind him all the way into lap 4

Fundin made his way through bends 1+2 (lap4) – with Craven not giving an inch – Ermelenko meanwhile was outpacing Pedersen – through laps two and three – but the Dane wasn’t giving up either – needing points as much as the American was

Down the back straight Craven harassed Fundin – the Swede keeping control going into bend three (lap4) – making his turn into bend four – Craven twisting through both turns – looking for extra grip to outpace Fundin - on entering onto the home straight

Out of bend four - Craven pushed forward - getting half a wheel in front of the Swede
With grim determination Fundin raced for the line – Craven was equally determined– – pushing himself and his bike forward - the British riders wheel crossed the line inches in front of Fundin – as Pedersen crossed the line a yard behind the Swede

Peter Craven 3 – Ove Fundin 2 – Jan O Pedersen 1 Sam Ermelenko 0

‘Well,’ gasped Pearson, ‘I thought Fundin was a dead cert to win that one.’
‘Peter Craven had other ideas though,’ chuckled Kelvin. ‘There were no ‘Big Five’ shenanigans going on there between Craven and Fundin, they meant every bit of it.’

‘There is plenty of room for Australian shenanigans in this race though,’ said Nigel.
‘We have Jack Young and Jason Crump off of gates one and two. Both of them have everything to ride for and there’s no time like the present for a bit of team riding.’

‘You could be right Nigel,’ said Kelvin. ‘Both Gary Havelock and Anders Michanek need to be scoring points. None more so than ‘Havvy’ if he wants to lift himself off the bottom rung of the ladder on the Overall Leader Board!!!’

Heat Sixteen
9 Red Jack Young
6 Blue Jason Crump
4 White Gary Havelock
13 Yellow Anders Michanek

On the track
The Australian pair didn’t concern themselves with Havelock’s dilemma – making the gate in tandem with each other – Crump holding off Havelock – Young having made a slow start

Havelock made the start ahead of Michanek – turning into bend one – right behind the Australian pairing – who exit bend two side by side – Crump on the outside – Young tight on the line – driving along the back straight

All the way through laps one, two and three - on into lap four – the two Australians gave no room to Havelock or Michanek to get past them – they needed the points – and had no intention of giving them away to either the British or the Swedish rider

Into bend one (lap4) – the Australians rode smoothly through bend two (lap4) – out onto the back straight – Havelock passing Michanek entering the straight – while the Australians cruised into bend three (lap4) – making their turn into bend four (lap4)

Exiting side by side onto the home straight – full power to the line – with Jack Young – like the senior American world champion - deferring to the junior Australian
Crump crossed the line first – Young a wheel length behind - Anders Michanek thundered past Havelock along the home straight over the line

Jason Crump 3 – Jack Young 2 – Anders Michanek 1 – Gary Havelock 0

‘That was a very precisely ridden race by Crump and Young,’ observed Kelvin. ‘They knew exactly what to do and how to do it right from the word go.’
The whole thing is very finely balanced now Kelvin,’ said Nigel. ‘With four more heats to go it’s time to hand back to the studio for the reflections of Keith and the guys in the studio.’

‘There has been some team riding going on,’ said Keith, ‘and some not going on where you would most expect it. What do you make of it gentlemen?’
‘Heat 14 was the only real opportunity that the Americans have been able to make team riding effective for them,’ said Chris Louis.

‘Heat 16 was the only chance Jack Young and Jason Crump had to team ride each other,’ said Mark Loram, ‘they weren’t going to let that opportunity pass them by.’
‘They didn’t let anyone else pass them by either,’ chuckled Keith, ‘but what was going on between Peter Craven and Ove Fundin. Craven’s win was a turn up for the books surely?’

Mark Loram paused for thought.
‘Wherever Peter Craven came from,’ said Mark, ‘I don’t think he came here simply for those who remember his time at Belle Vue or even to let those see him in action who have heard all about him but never seen him ride.

My opinion of it is Peter Craven regards himself as having as good a chance as anyone else of being All Time Great World Champion. That’s why Peter Craven is riding in this Grand Prix Series.’

‘I agree totally with what Mark says,’ confirmed Chris Louis.
‘It’s looking like your predictions that Jack Milne, Jack Young, Jason Crump and perhaps Sam Ermelenko can make it to the Grand Final are coming true Chris,' said Keith.

‘There are still four more races to go,’ said Mark Loram holding up four fingers.
‘Well those four races are coming up next,’ said Keith, ‘so back to Nigel and Kelvin.’
‘This is another one of those races where riders with low scores can climb a little higher up the ladder of fortune,’ said Nigel Pearson.
‘Three points here can do them all a world of championship good,’ confirmed Kelvin.

[Deleted]

Heat Seventeen
1 Red Jerzy Szczakiel
8 Blue Egon Muller
15 White Anders Michanek
10 Yellow Jan O Pedersen

On the track
All four riders leave the gate almost on a par with each other – Muller slightly ahead of Szczakiel – Michanek ahead of Pedersen – each of them cautious into the first bend

Muller turns into bend two – Michanek and Pedersen close the door on Szczakiel
Down the back straight the riders open up the throttle in an attempt to sort themselves out
Muller surges forward with Pedersen right behind him – Michanek is mid track – with Szczakiel poised to drive through when the opportunity arises

Through the third and fourth bends Muller maintains his lead – Michanek goes wide to the boards – Szczakiel driving through the gap opening up - as all three riders behind Muller – enter the home straight into lap2 – side by side

Muller goes through bends 1+2 (lap2) – into the back straight – Michanek decides it’s time to launch an attack on the German – running wide entering bend three (lap2) – Pedersen charges under the German – as Muller makes his turn into bend four (lap2)

Out onto the home straight into lap 3 Michanek – Muller – Pedersen are in line with each other – Szczakiel right behind them – Pedersen is on the line into bend one (lap3) – with Muller mid track – turning into bend two (lap3)

Michanek cutting in on the German exiting the bend – Szczakiel following the Swede through the gap - down the back straight Pedersen is slightly ahead – with the other three rides in line with each other – waiting to make the turn into bend three (lap3)

Szczakiel turns in sharp going into the bend – attempting to go under Pedersen
Muller – Michanek go round the outside of the Dane – in order to drive by him coming out of bend four (lap3) – into the home straight lap4

Along the home straight Pedersen remains ahead of his pursuers – following the white line into bend one (lap4) – Szczakiel on his rear wheel – Michanek and Muller turning through bend two (lap4) – in tandem with each other

Pedersen can’t shake off the three riders behind him – all of them seemingly intent of putting dirt behind them in – to get to bend three (lap4) as speedily as they can

Pedersen makes the turn into the bend – Muller – Michanek – Szczakiel follow through in line – into bend four (lap4) – out onto the straight making the dash for the line – Michanek finding the drive to out pace Muller ahead of Pedersen with Szczakiel last over the line half a wheel width behind Pedersen

Anders Michanek 3 – Egon Muller 2 – Jan O Pedersen 1 – Jerzy Szczakiel 0

‘That was a real topsy turvy race Kelvin,’ said Nigel. ‘None of those riders were prepared to give an inch to each other.’
‘They were all in the ‘last chance saloon’ in that one,’ said Kelvin. ‘We very well might have seen the last of these four riders. All of them wanted to sign off with a flourish and I think they managed to do just that.’
‘Who are we likely to see the last of after this race Kelvin,’ asked Nigel?’

Heat Eighteen
9 Red Jack Young
2 Blue Per Jonsson
7 White Tommy Price
14 Yellow Sam Ermelenko

On the track
As with the last race – the riders left the tapes almost together – this time no one was hanging around – waiting to see who would grasp the nettle – there was a full tilt drive to the first bend by all concerned

Per Jonsson drove out of the second bend ahead of Jack Young – who was holding out Tommy Price – while Sam Ermelenko rode hard round the boards through bends one and two – clipping the air fence in the process – maintaining control of his machine

Down the back straight Jonsson held onto his lead – Young using the track to gain ground on the Swede – while baulking both Price and Ermelenko’s attempts to drive by him

Into bend three Young attempted to go round the outside of Jonsson – Price and Ermelenko side by side – in each others way – preventing an attack on the Swede
Jonsson turns into bend four – the Australian charging under him – drawing level with the Swede entering onto the home straight into lap 2

Jonsson and Young pace each other down the straight – Price on the line – Ermelenko mid track follow the lead pair into bend one (lap2) – Jonsson trapped on the line – Young leaning on the Swede – Jonsson not giving way exiting bend two (lap2)

Down the back straight – Jonsson inches ahead of Young – Ermelenko battles with Price – the Swede makes his turn into bend three (lap2) – Young right over the Swedes shoulder – attempting to turn in on Jonsson again into bend four (lap2)

Jonnson holds on into the home straight through the line into lap 3 – diving tight into bend one (lap3) – Young wanting to – but not risking – charging under the Swede - Ermelenko – cutting to the line over Price – entering into bend two (lap3)

Young picks up grip – drawing alongside Jonsson – along the back straight – pacing the Swede into – bend three (lap3) – Jonsson adhering to the line – Young making his turn – not pushing under Jonsson entering bend four (lap3)

Young remains right on the Swede’s shoulder over the line into lap 4 – racing hard for bend one (lap4) – Jonsson keeping to the line – Ermelenko on his rear wheel – Price a bike length behind Young – still tied to Jonsson turning out of bend two (lap4)

The Swede pushes ahead into the back straight – turning on the power – full throttle – head down – burning rubber – Young still there over Jonsson’s shoulder –Ermelenko probing on his rear wheel – Price almost abreast of Ermelenko

Jonsson keeps his rear wheel tight to the line turning into bend three (lap4) – intent on not making a fatal mistake – continuing on the line – into bend four (lap4) – Young over his shoulder moving higher mid track – Jonsson picking up drive

Ermelenko moving right into lower mid track – Price pushing under the American – all four riders racing very hard for the line with – Tommy Price thrusting through a tyre width ahead of Per Jonsson – inches ahead of Jack Young – Ermelenko – running last but not least.

Tommy Price 3 – Per Jonsson 2 – Jack Young 1 – Sam Ermelenko 0

‘Tommy Price has produced a win out of nothing,’ enthused Nigel Pearson!!!
‘He picked up a massive amount of grip coming out of the last bend that shot him to the front of the field,’ said the equally enthused Kelvin. ‘I think he thought it was enough to get him past Sam Ermelenko but I very much doubt he expected it to push him past Per Jonsson and Jack Young!!!’

‘How costly was that for Per Jonsson and Jack Young,’ pondered Nigel Pearson?
‘Will Young rue the moment he allowed Jason Crump the luxury of that extra point in heat 16?’
‘How costly was it for Sam Ermelenko,’ wondered Kelvin? ‘The way he is celebrating it mattered a lot to Tommy Price. The one rider who knew before this race started he wasn’t going to make it to the Grand Final. But who has he taken down with him?’

‘Jason Crump will want to justify Jack Young’s faith in him by performing well in this race,’ said Nigel Pearson.
‘This is the race that all Belle Vue supporters in the stadium and those watching at home have been waiting for,’ said Kelvin. ‘I know I have.’

‘Belle Vue Hyde Road up against Belle Vue Kirkmanhulmes Lane,’ confirmed Nigel.
‘I wonder who will come out on top. Taking into consideration the fact that a certain Ole Olsen short of a few points himself is in the mix not just to make up the numbers. The same can also be said about Billy Hamill another one who will want to finish with a flourish!!!’

‘All I know is that if Jason Crump can land himself another world title while riding for Belle Vue,’ said Kelvin, ‘I think he will be more than pleased to be mentioned in the same breath as Peter Craven and; more than pleased if he can come to symbolise for Belle Vue Kirkmanshulme Lane what Peter Craven meant to Hyde Road!!!’

Heat Nineteen
3 Red Peter Craven
12 Blue Ole Olsen
13 White Billy Hamill
6 Yellow Jason Crump

On the track
Ole Olsen – a legend elsewhere other than Belle Vue – preferred to let Craven and Crump decide the issue between them – behind him rather than in front of him – therefore made a lightning start – shooting for the line ahead of the Belle Vue pair

Billy Hamill more interested in his own welfare than the other three – shot forward - leaving Crump with the option to ride hard round the boards

Peter Craven came out of the gate – behind Olsen – cutting through the gap left by the Dane and Hamill entering the first bend – twisting body and machine – defying gravity – turning into bend two

Hamill – man and machine wobbled dramatically – on finding one great Belle Vue Ace – arriving in front of him – with a second great Belle Vue Ace - introducing himself over the American’s right shoulder

Olsen drove out of bend two – Crump and Craven side by side – entered the back straight – a bemused Billy Hamill managing to stay on his bike – chasing the lead trio

Olsen racing full tilt down the straight – deducing that the two riders directly behind him – both wore the black Ace of Clubs – kept tight to the line entering bend three

Crump and Craven locked together – turned into bend three – with Craven charging under Olsen – Crump making haste round the outside of the Dane – entering into bend four – Olsen holding off both attempts at passing by the Aces onto the home straight

The senior Dane kept his lead into lap two – with Craven and Crump – making hard turns into bend one (lap2) – flying out of bend two (lap2) still locked together – with Billy Hamill making up lost ground right behind them

Olsen pressed hard down the back straight – keeping tight to the line – knowing he must keep the pressure on the two Aces for all for laps – turning confidently into bend three (lap2) – while Craven deciding to abandon Crump – cut ahead of the Australian

The British rider made another hard turn driving into bend four (lap2) – picking up drive exiting the bend – thrusting forward almost alongside Olsen – entering lap 3

Craven’s move seemed to galvanise Crump – not wishing to be left behind – in the All Time Great World Championship stakes – with the Australian head down – charging down the straight – following Olsen and Craven into bend one (lap3)

Olsen imagined Craven in close contact – coming off his line – to block the expected onslaught – while exiting bend two (lap 3) – with Craven – not as close as Olsen thought - turning in sharp behind the Dane – driving forward onto the back straight

Olsen now moved to mid track – alongside Craven – with Jason Crump sat behind them – raced headlong towards bend three (lap3) – making his turn into the corner

Craven turning tight on the line – drifting out slightly to baulk Olsen – cutting in – straightening up – powering forward into bend four (lap3) – onto the straight – slightly ahead of Crump – into lap 4

The Australian powering through the gap – Olsen was forced to leave open – when Craven forced him wide – Olsen a step higher racing close to the boards – with Billy Hamill pressing – the American deciding he wanted to be part of this race too – having aspirations to be a Coventry legend on a par with Olsen

Each of these riders – realising now more than ever – this is where greatness is decided – out there on the track – drove hard into bend one (lap4) – Craven on the line

Crump a step higher over his right shoulder – Olsen a step higher over Crump – Hamill snapping at Olsen’s rear wheel – all four in precise Club Status pecking order

Craven finely balanced – turned into bend two (lap4) – Crump liking the British rider’s style – made his turn in kind – wobbled ever so slightly – the technique not yet perfected – Olsen breathing down his neck – Hamill grim and determined pressing the Dane

Out onto the back straight – Peter Craven in full flow – Crump head down – powered along behind the leading Ace – Olsen outpacing Hamill – Craven turning hard into bend three (lap4) – Crump going wide to the boards – Olsen turning in –

Hamill following suit – each of them turning simultaneously – into bend four (lap4)
For a moment all is silent in the stadium – from out of nowhere a tremendous roar – all four riders driving towards the line – Olsen finding grip crossing the line – the referee decided - slightly ahead of Peter Craven – Crump outpacing Hamill

Ole Olsen 3 – Peter Craven 2 – Jason Crump 1 – Billy Hamill 0

‘I wonder if Ole Olsen picked up grip in the exact same place Tommy Pride did in the last race,’ asked Nigel?
‘I don’t know if he did or not,’ enthused Kelvin, ‘but I know that he picked up three points to the detriment of both Peter Craven and Jason Crump!!!’

‘Peter Craven won the battle of the Aces though,’ realised Nigel, ‘finishing on twelve points with Crump one behind him on eleven points.’
‘Olsen has finished with a creditable ten points,’ added Kelvin, ‘after his pointless first ride.’

‘There is a delay getting the riders on the track for heat twenty,’ said Nigel, ‘so we will hand you back to the studio for their reflections on what is going on.’
‘We are all abuzz here Nigel,’ enthused Keith, ‘we’ve just realised there is an outside chance of a four man run off for Grand Prix champion if things fall right in this last race.’

‘I think they’ve realised it in the pits too,’ chuckled Chris Louis, ‘judging by the activity taking place down there in various camps.’
‘The position is this,’ said Keith direct to camera, informing the speedway millions of the reasons for the frenetic activity going on in the pits, ‘if, and it is a mighty big ‘IF’ let me tell you. If Jack Milne or Gary Havelock win the next race and Ove Fundin comes in third and if Ivan Mauger comes in last.’

Keith grimaced, grinned then looked to the heavens.
‘If all these factors should fall into place, then gentlemen,’ Keith stressed, ‘we will have four riders on twelve points – Ivan Mauger, Ove Fundin, Peter Craven and Jack Milne – meaning a four man run off to decide the placing of each of these riders on this GP’s leader board and their standing on the Overall Leader Board.’
‘It can happen,’ grinned Chris Louis spreading his arms wide.
‘Anything can happen,’ confirmed Mark Loram.
‘Do you think it will,’ Keith finished off?

Heat Twenty
5 Red Ove Fundin
14 Blue Ivan Mauger
11 White Jack Milne
4 Yellow Gary Havelock

In the pits
‘Captain America’ and the rest of ‘Team America’ - certainly thought it could happen – as Sam Ermelenko - Bruce Penhall - Greg Hancock and Billy Hamill - crowded round - a relaxed Jack Milne sat on his machine – punching the air and offering words of encouragement.

‘If an American world champion wants to be All Time Great World Champion,’ said Sam Ermelenko, in answer to Jonathan Greenings hurried question, concerning Jack Milne’s chances of winning the up and coming race, ‘then these are the kind of guys you have just got to beat.’

‘You fear Gary Havelock that much,’ asked the earnest Jonathan thrusting his mike still closer to Captain America’s face???
‘Yep we sure do,’ grimaced a serious Sam, ‘I think everyone in this race fears what Gary Havelock might do!!!’

Tommy Price and Peter Craven were having quiet words with Gary Havelock sat impassive on his bike.
Ove Fundin and Ivan Mauger made their preparations - unconcerned as ever - by the fuss going on around them – something both Jack Milne and Gary Havelock were well aware of. The two-minute time allowance buzzer brought things to a head.

On the track
If the fuss in the pits - was designed to ‘unsettle’ either Fundin or Mauger - neither of these two champions indicated as such - riding smartly to the line – while both Milne and Havelock made something of a show - taking their time coming to the tapes

Fundin and Mauger turned from the tapes – the moment their opponents arrived - going to the fourth bend – returning to the line – taking their time – playing with the dirt – irritating the Start Marshall – finally preparations made
Heads down eyes right green light tapes rise

Ove Fundin and Ivan Mauger flowed from the gate smoothly into the first bend – Jack Milne in mid track was right there with them – Gary Havelock – making a gate of a lifetime was shooting forward on a par with the American

The lead pair made their turns into bends 1+2 emerging onto the back straight – Fundin on the line – Mauger at his side – Milne and Havelock side by side – right behind them

Fundin nor Mauger were hanging around – in order to make other peoples dream permutations come true – flew down the back straight – turning into bend three – still side by side – through into bend four – exiting onto the home straight into lap 2

Through bends 1+2 (lap2) – Fundin and Mauger stayed glued to each other – Havelock deciding early on – his battle had to be with the American – who was in no mood to indulge the British rider – chasing after the leaders along the back straight

Mauger cut in behind Fundin – holding to the line behind the Swede – entering bend three (lap2) – probing under the five times champion – the old fox staying glued to the line – exiting bend four (lap2) – pounding forward into lap 3

Fundin made the turn into bend one (lap3) – Mauger taking the outside line – driving into bend two (lap3) - turning on the power – pulling half way alongside Fundin – down the back straight – Jack Milne in close proximity – Havelock struggling to stay in touch with the American

Approaching bend three (lap3) – Mauger goes wide – turning smoothly on the apex of the corner – finding grip – pushing forward – turning into bend four (lap3) – drawing alongside Fundin over the line into lap 4

Fundin holds hard to his line – turning into bend one (lap4) – Mauger going into the turn with him – turning into bend two (lap4) – emerging onto the back straight – Mauger pressing harder – Fundin doggedly holding on – stuck to the line

Entering bend three (lap4) – turning hard – holding on – into bend four (lap4)
Emerging onto the home straight – two great champions side by side – Milne right behind them – waiting for the gap to open - Havelock trailing the American

Multiple champions trying to outpace each other – trying to leave each other behind – in the race to be All Time Great World Champion

The referee took all of ten minutes in making his decision – while a packed Ullevi stadium waited on tenterhooks – while studio commentators waited and wondered – while millions of speedway supporters made millions of cups of tea
It took the referee ten minutes to decide what the video evidence was telling him – so – as he was later quoted as saying – ‘he made absolutely the right decision.’

Ivan Mauger 3 – Ove Fundin 2 – Jack Milne 1 – Gary Havelock 0

‘A fantastic result for Ivan Mauger,’ said Nigel Pearson breaking the silence!!!
‘Mauger is the only rider to score a maximum in the Grand Prix qualifying rounds,’ said Kelvin. ‘What does that imply for all the other riders who have qualified for the Grand Final?’
‘Who is in the Grand Final,’ said Nigel, ‘and who isn’t, over to Keith in the studio for the answers???’

[Deleted]

We have detail to plough through before we can confirm the last sixteen,’ said Keith.
‘So here are the official results of the 20 heats raced tonight.’

1. Jerzy Szczakiel 1/1//1/0/0 = 3 = 16th
2. Per Jonsson 2/1/1/0/2 = 6 = 10th
3. Peter Craven 3/3/1/3/2 = 12 = 3rd
4. Gary Havelock 0/0/3/0/0 = 3 = 13th
5. Ove Fundin 3/3/3/2/2 = 13 = 2nd
6. Jason Crump 2/3/2/3/1 = 11 = 4th
7. Tommy Price 0/1/1/1/3 = 6 = 9th
8. Egon Muller 1/ 1/0/1/2 = 5 = 12th
9. Jack Young 3/2/2/2/1 = 10 = 6th
10. Jan O Pedersen 1/0/0/1/1 = 3 = 15th
11. Jack Milne 2/2/3/2/1 = 10 = 7th
12. Ole Olsen 0/3/2/2/3 = 10 = 5th
13. Billy Hamill 0/0/2/3/0 = 5 = 11th
14. Ivan Mauger 3/3/3/3/3 = 15* = 1st
15. Anders Michanek 2/0/0/1/3 = 6 = 8th
16. Sam Ermelenko 1/2/0/0/0 = 3 = 14th


‘Converted into descending order.’

1. Ivan Mauger 15*
2. Ove Fundin 13
3. Peter Craven 12
4. Jason Crump 11
5. Ole Olsen 10
6. Jack Young 10
7. Jack Milne 10
8. Anders Michanek 6
9. Tommy Price 6
10. Per Jonsson 6
11. Billy Hamill 5
12. Egon Muller 5
13. Gary Havelock 3
14. Sam Ermelenko 3
15. Jan O Pedersen 3
16. Jerzy Szczakiel 3

‘With bonus points and points scored from previous rounds added on

1. Ivan Mauger 15* + 32 = 47 + 76 = 123
2. Ove Fundin 13 + 30 = 43 + 87 = 130
3. Peter Craven 12 + 28 = 40 + 86 = 126
4. Jason Crump 11 + 26 = 37 + 38 = 75
5. Ole Olsen 10 + 24 = 34 + 74 = 108
6. Jack Young 10 + 22 = 32 + 39 = 71
7. Jack Milne 10 + 20 = 30 + 54 = 84
8. Anders Michanek 6 + 18 = 24 + 39 = 63
9. Tommy Price 6 + 16 = 22 + 24 = 46
10. Per Jonsson 6 + 14 = 20 + 36 = 56
11. Billy Hamill 5 + 12 = 17 + 35 = 52
12. Egon Muller 5 + 10 = 15 + 19 = 34
13. Gary Havelock 3 + 8 = 11 + 16 = 27
14. Sam Ermelenko 3 + 6 = 9 + 53 = 61
15. Jan O Pedersen 3 + 4 = 7 + 30 = 37
16. Jerzy Szczakiel 3 + 2 = 5 + 18 = 23

‘Converted into descending order.’

1. Ove Fundin 13 + 30 = 43 + 87 = 130
2. Peter Craven 12 + 28 = 40 + 86 = 126
3. Ivan Mauger 15* + 32 = 47 + 76 = 123
4. Ole Olsen 10 + 24 = 34 + 74 = 108
5. Jack Milne 10 + 20 = 30 + 54 = 84
6. Jason Crump 11 + 26 = 37 + 38 = 75
7. Jack Young 10 + 22 = 32 + 39 = 71
8. Anders Michanek 6 + 18 = 24 + 39 = 63
9. Sam Ermelenko 3 + 6 = 9 + 53 = 61
10. Per Jonsson 6 + 14 = 20 + 36 = 56
11. Billy Hamill 5 + 12 = 17 + 35 = 52
12. Tommy Price 6 + 16 = 22 + 24 = 46
13. Jan O Pedersen 3 + 4 = 7+ 30 = 37
14. Egon Muller 5 + 10 = 15 + 19 = 34
15. Gary Havelock 3 + 8 = 11 + 16 = 27
16. Jerzy Szczakiel 3 + 2 = 5 + 18 = 23

‘There would be your top eight going into the Grand Final,’ said Keith, ‘but if we place these scores in context with the eight riders from Round Three Group A on the
Overall Leader Board.’

1. Tony Rickardsson 3/3/3/3/0 = 12 + 28 = 40 + 83 = 123
2. Hans Nielsen 2/3/2/3/3 = 13 + 32 = 45 + 74 = 119
3. Barry Briggs 3/3/2/3/2 = 13 + 30 = 43 + 76 = 119
4. Bruce Penhall 3/3/3/2/1 = 12 + 26 = 38 + 52 = 90
5. Bjorn Knutson 0/1/2/1/2 = 6 + 12 = 18 + 72 = 90
6. Ove Fundin 3/3/3/2/2 = 13 + 30 = 43 + 87 = 130
7. Tomasz Gollob 2/2/1/3/3 = 11 + 24 = 35 + 51 = 86
8. Peter Craven 3/3/1/3/2 = 12 + 28 = 40 + 86 = 126
9. Bluey Wilkinson 0/0/1/2/3 = 6 + 16 = 22 + 63 = 85
10. Eric Gundersen 1/1/3/2/0 = 7 + 14 = 21 + 56 = 77
11. Ivan Mauger 3/3/3/3/3 = 15* + 32 = 47 + 76 = 123
12. Ronnie Moore 3/2/0/1/2 = 8 + 18 = 26 + 49 = 75
13. Ole Olsen 0/3/2/2/3 = 10 + 24 = 34 + 74 = 108
14. Peter Collins 2/1/3/2/1 = 9 + 20 = 29 + 42 = 71
15. Freddie Williams 0/1/0/0/0 = 1 + 6 = 7 + 63 = 70
16. Michael Lee 1/2/2/1/3 = 9 + 22 = 31 + 39 = 70
17. Greg Hancock 2/0/1/1/2 = 6 + 10 = 16 + 53 = 69
18. Lionel Van Praag 1/2/1/0/1 = 5 + 8 = 13 + 41 = 54
19. Jack Milne 2/2/3/2/1 = 10 + 20 = 30 + 54 = 84
20. Sam Ermelenko 1/2/0/0/0 = 3 + 6 = 9 + 53 = 61
21. Jack Young 3/2/2/2/1 = 10 + 22 = 32 + 39 = 71
22. Anders Michanek 2/0/0/1/3 = 6 + 18 = 24 + 39 = 63
23. Jason Crump 2/3/2/3/1 = 11 + 26 = 37 + 38 = 75
24. Per Jonsson 2/1/1/0/2 = 6 + 14 = 20 + 36 = 56
25. Billy Hamill 0/0/2/3/0 = 5 + 12 = 17 + 35 = 52
26. Nicki Pedersen 1/0/0/0/0 = 1 + 2 = 3 + 31 = 34
27. Jan O Pedersen 1/0/0/1/1 = 3 + 4 = 7 + 30 = 37
28. Mark Loram 0/0/0/0/1 = 1 + 4 = 5 + 24 = 29
29. Tommy Price 0/1/1/1/3 = 6 + 16 = 22 + 24 = 46
30. Egon Muller 1/ 1/0/1/2 = 5 + 10 = 15 + 19 = 34
31. Jerzy Szczakiel 1/1//1/0/0 = 3 + 2 = 5 + 18 = 23
32. Gary Havelock 0/0/3/0/0 = 3 + 8 = 11 + 16 = 27



‘And if we convert the Overall Leader Board into Grand Final descending order we have

The Complete Overall Leader Board

1. Ove Fundin 3/3/3/2/2 = 13 + 30 = 43 + 87 = 130
2. Peter Craven 3/3/1/3/2 = 12 + 28 = 40 + 86 = 126
3. Ivan Mauger 3/3/3/3/3 = 15* + 32 = 47 + 76 = 123
4. Tony Rickardsson 3/3/3/3/0 = 12 + 28 = 40 + 83 = 123
5. Hans Nielsen 2/3/2/3/3 = 13 + 32 = 45 + 74 = 119
6. Barry Briggs 3/3/2/3/2 = 13 + 30 = 43 + 76 = 119
7. Ole Olsen 0/3/2/2/3 = 10 + 24 = 34 + 74 = 108
8. Bruce Penhall 3/3/3/2/1 = 12 + 26 = 38 + 52 = 90
9. Bjorn Knutson 0/1/2/1/2 = 6 + 12 = 18 + 72 = 90
10 Tomasz Gollob 2/2/1/3/3 = 11 + 24 = 35 + 51 = 86
11. Bluey Wilkinson 0/0/1/2/3 = 6 + 16 = 22 + 63 = 85
12. Jack Milne 2/2/3/2/1 = 10 + 20 = 30 + 54 = 84

13 Eric Gundersen 1/1/3/2/0 = 7 + 14 = 21 + 56 = 77
14 Jason Crump 2/3/2/3/1 = 11 + 26 = 37 + 38 = 75
15 Ronnie Moore 3/2/0/1/2 = 8 + 18 = 26 + 49 = 75
16 Peter Collins 2/1/3/2/1 = 9 + 20 = 29 + 42 = 71
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


17 Jack Young 3/2/2/2/1 = 10 + 22 = 32 + 39 = 71
18 Freddie Williams 0/1/0/0/0 = 1 + 6 = 7 + 63 = 70
19 Michael Lee 1/2/2/1/3 = 9 + 22 = 31 + 39 = 70
20 Greg Hancock 2/0/1/1/2 = 6 + 10 = 16 + 53 = 69
21 Anders Michanek 2/0/0/1/3 = 6 + 18 = 24 + 39 = 63
22 Sam Ermelenko 1/2/0/0/0 = 3 + 6 = 9 + 53 = 61
23 Per Jonsson 2/1/1/0/2 = 6 + 14 = 20 + 36 = 56
24 Lionel Van Praag 1/2/1/0/1 = 5 + 8 = 13 + 41 = 54
25 Billy Hamill 0/0/2/3/0 = 5 + 12 = 17 + 35 = 52
26 Tommy Price 0/1/1/1/3 = 6 + 16 = 22 + 24 = 46
27 Jan O Pedersen 1/0/0/1/1 = 3 + 4 = 7 + 30 = 37
28 Nicki Pedersen 1/0/0/0/0 = 1 + 2 = 3 + 31 = 34
29 Egon Muller 1/ 1/0/1/2 = 5 + 10 = 15 + 19 = 34
30 Mark Loram 0/0/0/0/1 = 1 + 4 = 5 + 24 = 29
31 Gary Havelock 0/0/3/0/0 = 3 + 8 = 11 + 16 = 27
32 Jerzy Szczakiel 1/1//1/0/0 = 3 + 2 = 5 + 18 = 23



‘And there you have it gentlemen,’ said Keith. ‘These are your sixteen finalists who will compete for the title of All Time Great World Champion – at – so I am told – at a venue yet to be announced.’
Keith paused, looked full face into the camera.
‘As long as it’s not held somewhere akin to Belle Vue Hyde Road stadium I don’t really care where it is held!!!’

‘I am sure it will be held somewhere appropriate to the occasion,’ chuckled Chris Louis.
‘I am sure you’re right,’ said Keith, ‘you were half right in your predictions when you said Jason Crump and Jack Milne would make it to the Grand Final wrong about the unfortunate Jack Young and Sam Ermelenko. You were right Mark Loram when you pinpointed Jack Milne and Peter Collins and wrong about Freddie Williams and Michael Lee.’

Keith drew breath then said, ‘how strange is then Chris Louis that your man who failed to make the cut Jack Young finished in 17th place and your two men Mark Loram finished Freddie Williams in 18th place and Michael Lee in 19th place.’
Keith paused again then said, ‘and if you had have said Greg Hancock who finished in 20th place Chris, instead of Sam Ermelenko who finished in 22nd place you would have had all four runners up in your predictions too!!!’

Keith looked straight into the camera and said, ‘this whole Grand Prix Series has been all too strange an experience for me so before we unearth any more – dare I say it – mystical facts of coincidence I will say goodnight to Chris Louis, Mark Loram, Kelvin and Nigel in the commentary box and goodnight to all you watching at home. Goodnight!!!’

[Deleted]

Tomasz Gollob was taken out of the mix moving each rider up one place to include Jack Young in the Grand Final


During the Grand Final interval four races will take place that include riders who did not race in the Grand Prix qualifying rounds


The word is that all the riders are thrilled at the prospect of the Grand Final being held at that much loved home of British Speedway

The Shay Stadium Halifax ;D

Grand Final Line Up

1. Eric Gundersen………77
2. Bluey Wilkinson……..85
3. Peter Craven…………126
4. Bruce Penhall………...90
5. Ove Fundin…………..130
6. Peter Collins………….71
7. Bjorn Knutson………..90
8. Hans Nielsen…………119
9. Ole Olsen…………….108
10. Jack Young…………...71
11. Ronnie Moore………...75
12. Tony Rickardsson…….123
13. Jason Crump…………..75
14. Ivan Mauger…………..123
15. Barry Briggs…………..119
16 Jack Milne……………..84

Race Card for the Grand Final

Heat One
1. Red Eric Gundersen
2. Blue Bluey Wilkinson
3. White Peter Craven
4. Yellow Bruce Penhall

Heat Two
5. Red Ove Fundin
7. Blue Bjorn Knutson
6. White Peter Collins
8. Yellow Hans Nielsen

Heat Three
10. Red Jack Young
11. Blue Ronnie Moore
9. White Ole Olsen
12. Yellow Tony Rickardsson

Heat Four
15. Red Barry Briggs
14. Blue Ivan Mauger
16. White Jack Milne
13. Yellow Jason Crump

Heat Five
13. Red Jason Crump
1. Blue Eric Gundersen
5. White Ove Fundin
9. Yellow Ole Olsen

Heat Six
14. Red Ivan Mauger
10. Blue Jack Young
2. White Bluey Wilkinson
6. Yellow Peter Collins

Heat Seven
11. Red Ronnie Moore
15. Blue Barry Briggs
7. White Bjorn Knutson
3. Yellow Peter Craven

Heat Eight
4. Red Bruce Penhall
8. Blue Hans Nielsen
12. White Tony Rickardsson
16. Yellow Jack Milne

Heat Nine
6. Red Peter Collins
16. Blue Jack Milne
1. White Eric Gundersen
11. Yellow Ronnie Moore

Heat Ten
12. Red Tony Rickardsson
5. Blue Ove Fundin
15. White Barry Briggs
2. Yellow Bluey Wilkinson

Heat Eleven
8. Red Hans Nielsen
9. Blue Ole Olsen
3. White Peter Craven
14. Yellow Ivan Mauger

Heat Twelve
13. Red Jason Crump
4. Blue Bruce Penhall
10. White Jack Young
7. Yellow Bjorn Knutson

Heat Thirteen
7. Red Bjorn Knutson
12. Blue Tony Rickardsson
14. White Ivan Mauger
1. Yellow Eric Gundersen

Heat Fourteen
2. Red Bluey Wilkinson
13. Blue Jason Crump
8. White Hans Nielsen
11. Yellow Ronnie Moore

Heat Fifteen
16. Red Jack Milne
3. Blue Peter Craven
10. White Jack Young
5. Yellow Ove Fundin

Heat Sixteen
9. Red Ole Olsen
6. Blue Peter Collins
4. White Bruce Penhall
15. Yellow Barry Briggs

Heat Seventeen
1. Red Eric Gundersern
8. Blue Hans Nielsen
15. White Barry Briggs
10. Yellow Jack Young

Heat Eighteen
9. Red Ole Olsen
2. Blue Bluey Wilkinson
7. White Bjorn Knutson
16. Yellow Jack Milne

Heat Nineteen
3. Red Peter Craven
12. Blue Tony Rickardsson
13. White Jason Crump
6. Yellow Peter Collins

Heat Twenty
5. Red Ove Fundin
14. Blue Ivan Mauger
11. White Ronnie Moore
4. Yellow Bruce Penhall


There will be 10 Golden Points for the winner of this meeting

In previous meetings the winner on say 15 points would add 32 points to that number making a total of 47 points

The winner of the Grand Final thus will get 47 + 10 points added on = 57

Therefore Fundin could end up with 187 points
Mauger and Rickardsson 180 points
Jack Young 128 points

and so on

[Deleted]

All Time Greats Speedway Grand Prix Series Grand Final

A door to another time opened.
Tens of thousands of speedway supporters poured through the door. Before them stood the twin towers of the Temple of Speedway glistening in the sun.

The supporters hurried up the aisle called Wembley Way some stood around speaking in hushed tones, others sat on the steps leading up to the entrances, waiting to be entranced.

The supporters waited patiently for the gates to the Temple of Speedway to open.
They bought rosettes, speedway programs, flags and all the other artefacts they needed to show their allegiance to their ‘chosen one’ of the sixteen riders performing in the All Time Greats Speedway Grand Prix Series Grand Final.

Eventually the doors opened, the supporters made their way into the stadium. Weaving their way through the bleak alleyways to the numbered gate they once walked through long ago. Stopping a moment touching the walls not believing all this was real afraid it might all disappear.

Walking up the steps over the brow standing there for a moment transfixed looking round once more on this truly hallowed ground. Finding their way to the places they stood or sat in before, looking round the stadium filling with people. Soaking in the noise and colour vibrating through the spiritual home of Speedway itself.

The supporters touched the seats they were going to be seated in, felt the ground through their shoes they were going to stand on, looked round the stadium they thought had gone forever, told their children this place was speedway itself.

Returned one more time for the people to witness the coronation of the one who would become All Time Great World Champion. Returned one more time so all those riding in this grand occasion could savour the atmosphere permeating through Speedway’s spiritual home.

Returned one more time so that everyone who belonged to speedway could once more stand in Speedway’s Spiritual Home. A military band marched up and down on the centre green entertaining the supporters.

‘I knew this was going to happen,’ sighed the exasperated Keith Huwen full face to camera. ‘I knew the Grand Final would be held in some long forgotten mystical place where Speedway is no longer ridden.

Some supporters actually deluded themselves into thinking this grand occasion would be held at another god forsaken defunct speedway track closed down long ago like Hyde Road.

The SCB received letters from Cradley Heath supporters insisting the Final be held at Dudley Wood. Exeter Speedway supporters demanded it be held at the County Ground. Others said it should be held at Hackney Wick. There was even a request that the Final should be held at the Shay Halifax. The cheek of it eh!!!

But once again Sky-sports have found themselves in a place that no longer exists the Empire Stadium Wembley. Imagine that!!! I know I couldn’t.
Our studio guests tonight are thankfully two speedway riders both grounded in reality, the ever-present Chris Louis and Australia’s Steve Johnson. In the commentary box are Nigel Pearson and Kelvin Tatum. Good evening gentlemen.’

‘Good evening Keith,’ chuckled Nigel Pearson. ‘Isn’t it all very grand that we are back where we all belong, in speedway’s spiritual home?’
‘It might be grand for you Nigel but it’s all to much for me,’ said Keith, ‘but seeing we are here and there’s nothing we can do about it we might as well get on with it.’

A trumpet blast resounded through the stadium causing everyone to fall silent. The marching band on this cue led the Grand Parade emerging from the pits. At the head of the parade walked a standard bearer carrying the Australian flag

Behind the standard bearer walked a grand old man who took off his hat and waved it at the crowd all of those gathered recognising him for who he was.
Following the grand old man were the sixteen riders competing in the Grand Final.
Behind them marched all the speedway riders who had ever appeared in an Individual World Championship Final or Grand Prix Series.

Around the arena marched all of these riders gathered together under the flag of the nations each one of them represented.

From America there was Cordy Milne and Wilbur Lamoureaux. Ernie Roccio nodded in the direction of Barry Briggs. Sprouts Elder smiled at Ivan Mauger.

From Australia there was Lionel Van Praag, Ron Johnson, Bill Longley, Phil Crump,
and John Boulger. Jack Biggs saluted the crowd and breathed in the magical atmosphere.

Under the British flag marched John and Chris Louis alongside the Williams brothers Eric and Ian, Eric Langton, Norman Parker the Boocock brothers, Ken Mckinlay, Arthur Forrest the ‘Black Prince’.

From Denmark Prince Tommy Knudsen, Morian and Balzer Hansen. From Sweden Olle Nygren, Dan Forsberg and Gote Nordin.

From Poland Tadeuz Teodorowicz, Andrzej Wylenda, Antoni Woryna, Zenon Plech, a disconsolate Tomasz Gollob, Jerzy Szczakiel, last but not least, with the hint of a grin on his face.

From Russia Igor Plechanov, Boris Samorodov and many others.
They were all there everyone in the crowd could see them.

The Grand Parade came to a halt by the steps to the Royal Box. The grand old man of speedway Mr. John S. Hoskins himself walked through the guard of honour, made up of the sixteen competing riders, side by side with Sir Arthur Elvin, up the steps into the Royal Box.

In his hands Mr Hoskins carried a box, no one knew what was contained within, other than the grand old man himself. All the other riders in the parade walked through the guard of honour taking their places in the seats surrounding the Royal Box.

When everyone was seated, Mr Hoskins stood up to speak into the microphone in front of him. Mr Hoskins opened the lid of the box out from which flew a solitary white dove.

‘May the Spirit of Speedway forever fly free,’ said the grand old man who was the true Godfather of Speedway and owned it mind, body and soul.
With that Mr Hoskins sat down to watch the proceedings unfold before him.

From the pits a rich melody of sounds indicated machines being warmed up – preparing for the racing. The riders took the opportunity to walk round the track, taking mental note of the track conditions.

Len Silver insisted on preparing the track, which was in perfect condition. Inexplicably, Ove Fundin knelt down on one knee picked up a handful of dirt then rubbed it into his body jacket. Riders and supporters commented to each other on this strange ritual. Eventually all the riders disappeared into the pits.

‘Well,’ said Keith eventually breaking the silence, ‘I bet that was an emotional moment for you two guys!!!’
‘Yes it was,’ said Chris Louis who had returned to the studio
‘There doesn’t seem to be a dry eye in the house,’ said Keith wishing he was somewhere else watching road racing perhaps?

‘By my estimation,’ Keith continued, ‘in another three hours time we should be witnessing the crowning of my old mate Barry Briggs as All Time Great World Champion.’
‘Tony Rickardsson,’ chuckled Chris Louis.
‘Bluey Wilkinson,’ cut in Steve Johnson, ‘or Jack Young.’
‘Ivan Mauger,’ decided Nigel Pearson.
‘Ove Fundin,’ confirmed Kelvin Tatum.
‘What about Peter Craven,’ added Keith, ‘and Hans Nielsen?’

‘It’s all to be ridden for,’ said Kelvin.
‘May the best man win,’ announced Nigel Pearson.
‘That means Barry Briggs is a dead cert to win it,’ said Keith full face to camera
‘Fortune will smile on the chosen one,’ said Steve Johnson sagely.

‘Barry Briggs,’ Keith mouthed silently to the camera, then out loud said, ‘we are about to find out which way the All Time Great Speedway winds are going to blow, over to Nigel and Kelvin in the commentary box.’

‘We have four great champions out in the first race,’ said Nigel, ‘to fire the first salvo in the All Time Greats World Speedway Final. It sends a shiver down your spine Kelvin!!!’

‘It certainly does Nigel,’ said Kelvin, ‘and I think your opening phrase ‘four great champions’ will apply to every race on offer here tonight.’
‘That’s right Kelvin,’ said Nigel, ‘which I think it will be wise to take each race has it comes rather than speculate heat by heat who will come out on top.’

‘Each race will be a mini four man run off for a world title all of its own,’ enthused Kelvin. ‘So who will come out on top here between Gundersen, Wilkinson, Craven and Bruce Penhall???’

[Deleted]

Heat One
1. Red Eric Gundersen
2. Blue Bluey Wilkinson
3. White Peter Craven
4. Yellow Bruce Penhall

On the track:
Bruce Penhall’s intention was to ride boldly onto the track, but even he hesitated before allowing the wheels of his bike to touch the dirt on the Wembley circuit.
Bluey Wilkinson rode out first – followed by Peter Craven – then Penhall – and finally Eric Gundersen

Everyone in the stadium felt the tension – the riders practiced starts – sought to get a feel for the well-prepared circuit. The atmosphere was such that it was almost as if the track itself invited those racers to aspire to do their up-most to grasp the nettle and win this race.

The riders settled at the tapes – heads down – eyes right – green light – tapes rise
Bluey Wilkinson charged to the line over a very surprised Eric Gundersen – Bruce Penhall was right behind Wilkinson – outgating Peter Craven

Into the first bend Wilkinson and Penhall rode side by side – Peter Craven mid track – right behind them – Eric Gundersen on the inside beside the Belle Vue Ace
Making the turn into the second bend – Wilkinson emerges onto the back straight - half a bike length ahead of Penhall

Craven rides around the boards – seeking to get by Penhall who was riding mid track – attempting to remain in direct contact with the Australian
Wilkinson makes his way into the third bend – Penhall still mid track – Craven riding high to the fence – Gundersen tight on the line – making up ground on the American

Wilkinson turns tight into the fourth bend – behind him – Craven turns hard and tight – thrusting forward – diving under Penhall – who was drifting wide exiting bend four

Gundersen emerging from the bend on a par with Craven – who is level with Penhall – on the home straight into lap 2
Wilkinson – in control of the race – drives into bend one (lap2) – followed closely by his three opponents – still locked together side by side

Craven drives towards the fence – on the apex of the corner – Penhall cuts in – Gundersen on the line – turns into bend two (lap2) – with Penhall beside him - Craven inches from the fence – level with Penhall

All of them driving full tilt down the back straight – in the wake of Bluey Wilkinson – now fast approaching bend three (lap2) – holding tight to the line – turning into bend four (lap2) – onto the home straight into lap 3

Craven – Penhall – Gundersen – are still fighting for position – along the home straight – none of these three gaining a significant advantage over the other two
Wilkinson ploughs on into bend one (lap3)

Penhall gaining a slight edge – follows the Australian into the bend – Craven twists and turns – finds grip – pushing under Penhall – exiting bend two (lap3) – a bike length of Penhall who is in mid track - Gundersen sticks to the line along the back straight

Craven is gaining ground on Wilkinson – the Australian glides smoothly into bend three (lap3) – Craven taking the highline – Penhall riding tight over Gundersen’s shoulder – makes the turn into the bend

Wilkinson emerges from bend four (lap3) – Craven picks up grip shoots out of the bend – Penhall - locked together with Gundersen – follows Craven onto the home straight into lap 4

Wilkinson crosses the line into the last lap – Craven a bike length behind – Penhall and Gundersen still side by side – right on Craven’s rear wheel

Wilkinson makes the turn into bend one (lap4) – Craven follows – twisting and turning – Penhall mid track turning hard – cutting in sharp – a wheel length ahead of Gundersen – exiting bend two (lap4)

Craven is on Wilkinson’s rear wheel – along the back straight – the crowd are on their feet – cheering on the riders – Wilkinson keeping it tight – turns into bend three (lap4)

Craven goes wide – twists turns – presses forward – out of bend four (lap4) – half a bike length behind Wilkinson – on the outside of the Australian - Gundersen and Penhall a bike length behind them

Wilkinson drives forward – pursued by Craven – the Australian taking the chequered flag – Craven second – Bruce Penhall neck and neck with Gundersen – but it is the American - who makes it over the line - ahead of the Dane

Bluey Wilkinson 3 – Peter Craven 2 – Bruce Penhall 1 – Eric Gundersen 0

‘That was an astounding ride from Wilkinson,’ Nigel Pearson yelled.
‘There are those who reckon Bluey Wilkinson could get a 15 point maximum here tonight!!!’
‘There are those who think the same of Barry Briggs, Ivan Mauger, Ole Olsen and Hans Nielsen,’ Kelvin chuckled, ‘and what about Ove Fundin?’

‘Ove Fundin never scored a 15 point maximum in any of his world finals,’ observed Pearson, ‘so who’s to say it will be any different in this one?’
‘It is highly unlikely that any rider will score a maximum,’ said Kelvin, ‘in an illustrious field such as this one.’

‘I agree Kelvin,’ said Pearson, ‘but it’s first blood to Bluey Wilkinson. Johnnie Hoskins seems mighty pleased with his fellow Australian’s victory in heat one.’
Wilkinson nodded in the direction of the grand old man as he rode past the Royal Box.

‘It’s that man Fundin out next,’ said Pearson, ‘up against another of the ‘Big Five’ Bjorn Knutson along with Peter Collins and Hans Nielsen.’
‘All four of these riders will expect to win this one,’ said Kelvin. ‘They all know they have to match Wilkinson’s performance in heat one.’

Heat Two
5. Red Ove Fundin
7. Blue Bjorn Knutson
6. White Peter Collins
8. Yellow Hans Nielsen

On the track:
The instant the tapes rose Fundin was away from the gate at a clip – smooth to the line – waiting for no one – Knutson was right behind his fellow Swede – Hans Nielsen – meticulously prepared – shot from the gate – ahead of Peter Collins

Fundin turned into bend one – Knutson on the line behind him – Nielsen over the second Swede’s shoulder – level with him exiting bend two

Fundin proceeded down the back straight – Nielsen and Knutson right behind him – the leader made a precise turn into bend three – through lap four out onto the home straight into lap 2

Knutson matched Nielsen’s pace along the home straight – Collins struggled to make up ground – looking for grip at the rear

Fundin turned smoothly into bend one (lap2) – Nielsen pulling slightly ahead of Knutson exiting bend two (lap2) – Collins appearing over the Swede’s shoulder – entering the back straight

Nielsen accelerated – giving chase to Fundin – now making his turn into bend three (lap2) – on into bend four (lap2) – with Nielsen driving under Fundin entering onto the home straight into lap 3

Nielsen’s attack found Fundin immovable – the result being the Swede drove even harder down the home straight – making another controlled turn into bend one (lap3) – Nielsen stalking Fundin mid track – emerging from bend two (lap3)

Knutson – chases the lead pair out of bend two – glued to the line – Collins on his tail – looking for more grip – to keep in contact with Knutson – down the back straight

Fundin presses on into bend three (lap3) – Nielsen mid track – turning into bend four (lap3) – taking the line giving him most drive – pushing forward – following Fundin into lap 4

Nielsen is half a bike length behind Fundin – entering bend one (lap4) – turning tight exiting bend two (lap4) – almost alongside the Swede – Knutson is outpacing Collins – entering the back straight

Down the straight – Fundin and Nielsen are locked together – driving towards bend three (lap4) – Fundin – unfazed by the presence of Nielsen – makes his turn tight to the line

Nielsen drives under Fundin – entering bend four (lap4) – the Swede will not move
off the line – driving onto the home straight – with Nielsen holding off Knutson – diving under the Dane – on the straight
Fundin crosses the line – Nielsen follows – with Knutson holding off - a valiant charge round him - by Peter Collins

Ove Fundin 3 – Hans Nielsen 2 – Bjorn Knutson 1 – Peter Collins 0

‘Fundin means business,’ Kelvin announced!!!
‘But so does Hans Nielsen,’ said Pearson.
‘Fundin was very sharp out of gate one,’ said Kelvin.

‘He had to take advantage of his gate position,’ said Nigel. ‘Fundin and Nielsen’s finishing order might well have been reversed had Hans been off of gate one!!!’
‘That is quite possible,’ said Kelvin, ‘Nielsen seemed as equally tuned into the track as Fundin was.’

‘We have another fast gating Swede in the shape of Tony Rickardsson out next,’ said Pearson.
‘Tony Rickardsson is a real contender for the mantel of All Time Great World Speedway Champion,’ confirmed Kelvin, ‘but he is off of gate four just as Hans Nielsen was.’
‘Up against three of the finest riders ever to grace this great old stadium,’ said Nigel.

Heat Three
10. Red Jack Young
11. Blue Ronnie Moore
9. White Ole Olsen
12. Yellow Tony Rickardsson

On the track:
There was quite a bit of riding back and forth from the gate – four riders adept at mind games – vied with each other – to gain an edge - finally the frustrated Starting Marshall – called them all to order

It was Ole Olsen smartest from the gate – Jack Young making a slow start – behind Ronnie Moore – who had Tony Rickardsson coming round the outside – driving forward – cutting in over Moore – making contact with Olsen – exiting bend two

Level with Olsen down the back straight – Olsen near the line – T/R tied to the Dane Ronnie Moore in battle with Jack Young – now in contact with the Kiwi
Olsen and Rickardsson paced each other through bends 3+4 onto the home straight into lap 2

Olsen did not want to let this one go – knowing he could be there or thereabouts – T/R realised he just couldn’t drop points – even at this stage of the meeting

Into bend one (lap2) – side by side – out of bend two (lap2) – locked together – onto the back straight – not giving an inch – both of them with Ronnie Moore and Jack Young – now right behind them – each of them wanting to finish – up the pecking order – as high as they possibly could

Olsen and Rickardsson were forced into a form of team riding – through bends 3+4 (lap2) – in order to hold off determined attacks by Young and Moore – down the home straight into lap 3

Through bends 1+2 (lap3) – Olsen and T/R held off more assaults by Young and Moore – covering all the overtaking options – down the back straight – through bends 3+4 (lap3) – out onto the home straight into lap 4

Olsen followed the white line – through the three laps – with Rickardsson beside him all the way

The senior Dane – turned hard into bend one (lap4) – Rickardsson – falling a wheel length behind – making the turn through bend two (lap4)

Jack Young riding hard round the boards – Ronnie Moore driving under Olsen – coming out of the bend onto the back straight

Olsen was slightly ahead of Rickardsson – T/R a wheel length ahead of Young on the outside – Moore on the inside – all of them making the turn into bend three (lap4) – skilful riders all – inches from each other – holding their lines – turning into bend four (lap4) – pressing forward – driving hard for the line

Olsen’s front wheel crossed the line – inches ahead of Jack Young – the Australian in there before Ronnie Moore – millimetres ahead of Tony Rickardsson
All finishing positions decided by the referee – Tony Steele – after watching the video evidence – for what seemed an interminable period of time.

Ole Olsen 3 – Jack Young 2 – Ronnie Moore 1 – Tony Rickardsson 0

‘That was a real body blow for Tony Rickardsson Kelvin,’ said Pearson. ‘I don’t fancy Tony Steele’s job tonight. For me that was the first of some very hard decisions he will have to make during this meeting.’

‘It’s not the end of the world for Rickardsson,’ said Kelvin. ‘Ove Fundin didn’t score in his first race in the first Grand Prix and he won the meeting and now sits on top of the Overall Leader Board.’

‘That being said,’ added Pearson, ‘Tony Rickardsson simply can’t afford to drop another point tonight!!!’
‘Easier said than done,’ Kelvin sighed, ‘but was it previous experience of riding at Wembley that did for Rickardsson there?’

‘You could be right Kelvin,’ said Nigel, ‘there are four more riders coming out on the track who won’t want to experience what has just befallen Tony Rickardsson.’
‘A solid line up here Nigel,’ said Kelvin, ‘Barry Briggs and Ivan Mauger. There are bound to be fireworks what with Jack Milne and Jason Crump in contention.’

Heat Four
15. Red Barry Briggs
14. Blue Ivan Mauger
16. White Jack Milne
13. Yellow Jason Crump

On the track:
Jason Crump – from the gate – took to the boards – just as well – Briggs – Mauger – Milne – made their way to the line – in tandem with each other – turning precisely into bend one – in full control

Mauger – with steely determination – turning first into bend two – Briggs and Milne – a hairsbreadth behind him – Crump continuing round the boards – all four tied together onto the back straight

Mauger pulls ahead down the back straight – Crump rode the fence into bend three – Briggs making the turn with Milne on the inside line – into bend four – out onto the home straight into lap 2

Mauger holds onto his slight lead into bend one (lap2) – Briggs drove under his fellow Kiwi exiting bend two – Milne turning mid track – Crump following suit – realising he was getting nowhere – riding round the fence

Briggs shoved Mauger off his line – emerging onto the back straight level with Mauger – Crump driving under Jack Milne – causing the American problems – when attempting to go round Mauger – who was now riding mid track – towards bend three (lap2)

Mauger cut back in on Briggs – entering bend four (lap2) – Crump driving under Mauger – Milne going into mid track – hoping for the way forward to open up – on the home straight into lap 3

Mauger draws level with Briggs – on the straight – Crump behind Mauger - on the line – Milne seeking a way through round Briggs – the four riders winding on the power – into bend one (lap3) - following through bend two (lap3) - onto the back straight

Mauger and Briggs exchange the lead – pushing hard into bend three (lap3) – Mauger holding tight to the line – turning – Briggs leaning on him – Crump’s front wheel inside of Mauger’s rear wheel - Milne forging ahead round Briggs – exiting bend four (lap3) – Mauger half a wheel length ahead of the field into lap 4

Mauger drives forward relentlessly – Briggs equally determined not to give way – Crump caught up in the flow of the race – Milne – driving into bend one (lap4) – all four making the turn – locked together as one – through bend two (lap4) onto the back straight

Mauger ahead – then Briggs – down the straight – locked together – into bend three (lap4) – Mauger turns into bend four (lap4) – Briggs turns – Crump – Milne – emerging onto the home straight – all four riders driving for the line – flat out

Riders pushing their machines to the limit – Jack Milne pushing his way through – followed by Barry Briggs – Mauger holding out a determined Jason Crump
The four riders were round bend two before their machines slowed to a stroll

Jack Milne 3 – Barry Briggs 2 – Ivan Mauger 1 – Jason Crump 0

‘That must be the most driven race I have ever seen,’ gasped Kelvin Tatum.
‘Is the World Championship form book being turned upside down Kelvin,’ asked Nigel Pearson?

‘I think it’s being torn up and thrown away Nigel,’ said Kelvin, ‘what with T/R coming last in his race – Ivan Mauger on one point from this race. All four of those riders must be exhausted after that one.’
‘Jonathan Greening has grabbed Jason Crump,’ said Nigel.

‘How was for you Jason,’ asked Jonathan?
‘It has to be the greatest race I have ever ridden in,’ enthused the exuberant Crump. ‘I can’t wait for my next race to begin.’
‘You might win that one,’ offered Jonathan.

‘That’s the thing,’ chuckled Jason. ‘That race proved to me and everyone else that no one is unbeatable here tonight. Not Ivan Mauger, Barry Briggs, Hans Nielsen, Tony Rickardsson, no one!!!’ Crump paused. ‘Who would have thought Jack Milne would leave it right to the very last moment. It wasn’t do or die either. He knew exactly what he was doing, the reason he winked at me as we all left the track.’
‘Now we know,’ said Jonathan to camera, ‘back to Keith in the studio.’

‘Those last two races made Bluey Wilkinson and Ove Fundin’s races look like cakewalks,’ said Keith, ‘compared to those last two dramatic free for alls we have just witnessed. It could be a dogfight for All Time Great World Champion!!!’

‘No one’s going to sit back here tonight,’ said Chris Louis, ‘and let the other guy walk away with it. Every-one of those riders out there, see themselves wearing the mantel of All Time Great World Champion.’

‘If not in fact,’ cut in Steve Johnson, ‘at least in spirit. Bluey Wilkinson certainly understood the significance of Johnnie Hoskins’ gesture when he set free the Spirit of Speedway.’
‘It was a transcendental moment,’ said Chris Louis, ‘that electrified Bluey Wilkinson, Ole Olsen and Jack Milne.’

‘What about Ove Fundin,’ questioned Keith?
‘Ove Fundin was just doing what Ove Fundin does,’ said Chris Louis.
‘What’s that,’ said the expectant Keith?
‘Win races,’ said Louis and Johnson in harmony!!!

Keith looked to the heavens then said, ‘what do you make of all this Kelvin and Nigel?’
‘Looks as if this could be anyone’s meeting to me,’ said Kelvin.
‘Both Ivan Mauger and Tony Rickardsson have discovered that their opponents are no respecters of reputations,’ said Nigel.

‘That being perhaps,’ speculated Kelvin, ‘because they have reputations of their own to uphold.’
‘So whose wings are about to be clipped in this next race,’ asked Nigel?

[Deleted]

Heat Five
13. Red Jason Crump
1. Blue Eric Gundersen
5. White Ove Fundin
9. Yellow Ole Olsen

On the track:
Fundin gated clear of Gundersen and Olsen – anticipating the still exuberant Jason Crump’s charge to the line – elbowing Gundersen into Olsen’s path in the process –causing Olsen to wrestle with his bike – entering bend one

Fundin in front exiting bend two – Crump directly behind the Swede – Gundersen over Crump’s shoulder – Olsen forced to take the highline – powering into the back straight – needing to make up ground – fast

Crump pushed under Fundin – into bend three – the Swede leaning on the Australian – closing the door – Gundersen coming round mid track – Olsen taking it wide turning into bend four – straightening up – driving forward – picking up grip
Pushing between Crump and Gundersen – level with them – over the line into lap 2

Fundin is ahead of the pack – driving into bend one (lap2) – Crump on the line behind Olsen vying with Gundersen – driving out of bend two (lap2) – level with his fellow Dane – onto the back straight

Fundin’s wheels stuck to the line – into bend three (lap2) – through bend four (lap2) – Olsen – Gundersen – Crump – driving onto the home straight into lap 3
Crump attempts to overtake Fundin on the straight – the Swede turning hard into bend one (lap3) – causing Crump to broadside – on the apex of the corner –

Gundersen cutting in under the Australian - Olsen going round the outside
The two Danes exiting bend two (lap3) – ahead of Crump – a bike length behind Fundin – through bends 3+4 (lap3) – into the final lap

The racing here is no less fast paced than the two previous heats – Fundin sticking to the line – into bends 1+2 (lap4) – along the back straight – Crump riding round the fence – finding drive – bringing him into contact with Olsen and Gundersen

Fundin plunges into bend three (lap4) – Olsen and Gundersen right behind him – Jason Crump high around the boards - turning into bend four (lap4) – Fundin dashes for the line - out pacing his three pursuers – who cross the line abreast of each other
Referees decision:

Ove Fundin 3 – Eric Gundersen 2 – Jason Crump 1 – Ole Olsen 0

‘It was Olsen who drew the short straw this time,’ Kelvin shouted.
‘Judging by the noise the ‘Ove Fundin Appreciation Society are making,’ commented Pearson, ‘you could imagine that Fundin has already got it in the bag!!!’

‘Not for one moment,’ said a serious Kelvin, ‘do I think Ove Fundin or any other one of these riders think this meeting is anywhere near being decided. Fundin is well aware he has another nine riders to contend with before this meeting is done and dusted. He will be focussing on each race has it comes up hoping, no doubt, to win them all. But he has serious competition to face in all his races.’
‘Fundin can drop points as easily as any other rider,’ Pearson confirmed, ‘but who will be dropping points in heat six?’

Heat Six
14. Red Ivan Mauger
10. Blue Jack Young
2. White Bluey Wilkinson
6. Yellow Peter Collins

On the track:
Bluey Wilkinson eclipsed everyone – flying to the line untroubled – Mauger and Young connecting elbows – slowing each others progress to the first bend
Collins on the highline – turning into bend two - Mauger on the line - accelerating out of the bend – Jack Young staying with him – Collins still riding wide

Wilkinson remains in front – along the back straight – Mauger bearing down on him – entering bend three – Young over Mauger’s shoulder – Collins sitting behind them – waiting for his moment to shine

Wilkinson exiting bend four – still in front – with Mauger wringing every ounce of power – out of his machine – driving down the home straight – one Australian in front – the other one snapping at his heels – Collins still in contention

Wilkinson proceeds into bend one (lap2) – Mauger looking to go round Wilkinson – Young attacking the Kiwi – driving under Mauger exiting bend two (lap2) – level with him on the back straight - Collins finally getting alongside Mauger and Young
Wilkinson powering forward into bend three (lap2) – Mauger pushing under the Australian – coming out of bend four (lap2) – Young making his way round the outside of Wilkinson – Collins a step behind them into lap 3

Mauger draws abreast of Wilkinson – on the outside of the Australian – turning into bend one (lap3) – Wilkinson holding the line – Young on Wilkinson’s rear wheel – Collins a step behind Mauger – on the highline – through bend two (lap3)

On the back straight – Mauger stays with Wilkinson – now turning into bend three (lap3) – the Kiwi cutting in hard – chopping off Jack Young’s advance in the process
Driving under Wilkinson – emerging from bend four (lap3) – level with Wilkinson – into lap 4

Mauger turns hard into bend one (lap4) – forcing Wilkinson wide – Jack Young following through – Wilkinson level with Young – out of bend two (lap4) – Mauger slightly ahead along the back straight

Pulling ahead turning into bend three (lap4) – two Australians right behind him – Collins in there too – through bend four (lap4) – Mauger holds the lead – onto the home straight – over the line – followed by Jack Young – thrusting ahead of Bluey Wilkinson

Ivan Mauger 3 – Jack Young 2 – Bluey Wilkinson 1 – Peter Collins 0

‘Mauger really needed that one,’ said Nigel Pearson
‘So did the other three,’ responded Kelvin. ‘Bluey Wilkinson gave his all there but it wasn’t enough.’
‘Another exhausting race,’ said Nigel
‘With no let up insight,’ Kelvin replied.
‘Especially in the next heat,’ said Pearson, ‘ a quartet of the ‘Big Five’ pitted against each other.’
‘With no quarter asked or given,’ said Kelvin, ‘no doubt!!!’

Heat Seven
11. Red Ronnie Moore
15. Blue Barry Briggs
7. White Bjorn Knutson
3. Yellow Peter Craven

On the track:
Bjorn Knutson made the gate – Barry Briggs shot over Ronnie Moore – Peter Craven cut in behind all three – turned hard into bend one – drove between Moore and Briggs – entering bend two – emerging slightly head of them – onto the back strait – with Knutson stranded on the highline

Craven tight to the line going into bend three – Moore seeking to go around him – Briggs forced wide – cutting in – driving under Moore into bend four – onto the home straight into lap 2

Craven held his lead – Briggs slightly ahead of Moore – Knutson mid track – Craven into bend one (lap2) – Briggs launching an assault – exiting bend two (lap2) – Moore on the line – Knutson level with the Kiwi

Craven driving hard – along the back straight – not shaking off his opponents – flying into bend three (lap2) – twisting turning into bend four (lap2)
Briggs attacks again – driving under Craven into bend one (lap3) – pushing Craven mid track – who manages to keep his bike upright – pushing on into bend two (lap3) – abreast of Briggs onto the back straight

Craven gets his head down – determined to keep control of this race – powering into bend three (lap3) – Briggs tuning into Craven’s intentions – driving under the Belle Vue Ace – into bend four (lap3)

Knutson and Moore level with each other – onto the straight into lap into lap 4
Briggs and Craven pull ahead on the home straight – pacing each other through bends 1+2 (lap4) – down the back straight – locked in combat – into bend three (lap4)

Craven tight to the line – making a sharp turn – forcing Briggs go round the outside – through bend four (lap4) – forward to the line – neck and neck
Grim determination carrying Barry Briggs – by a tyre width – over the line ahead of Craven – followed closely by Ronnie Moore – Knutson a wheel length behind Moore
Briggs and Craven shook hands with each other - then with Moore and Knutson - on their way back to the pits

Barry Briggs 3 – Peter Craven 2 – Ronnie Moore 2 – Bjorn Knutson 0

‘Barry Briggs dug deep to pull that one out of the bag,’ said Nigel Pearson
‘Craven was just as determined,’ said Kelvin. ‘It’s a pity that both of them couldn’t have won this one but Briggs just had the edge on Craven there.’
‘If the battle of the ‘Big Five’ wasn’t enough to thrill us all,’ said Nigel, ‘look what we have on offer next. Rickardsson simply does have to get something out of this one!!!
‘Ditto the other three,’ said Kelvin!!!

Heat Eight
4. Red Bruce Penhall
8. Blue Hans Nielsen
12. White Tony Rickardsson
16. Yellow Jack Milne

On the track:
The concept worked out in the pits – by Team America and their Captain Sam Ermelenko – (who had declined a studio pundit role – more interested in ensuring an American be All Time Great World Champion – or as near as damn it) – was a pincer movement – to be executed by Penhall and Milne – to cut across Nielsen and Rickardsson

Problem was – Rickardsson and Nielsen – ignorant of all concepts American – more interested in their own welfare - left Milne and Penhall – to follow their Swedish and Danish leaders into bend one – emerging locked together out of bend two

Nielsen hugged the line down the back straight – Rickardsson inches from him – Milne and Penhall powering forward behind them – aware that if they did not keep in contact with the lead pairing – they would rapidly become spectators in this race
Nielsen rode very precisely into bend three – Rickardsson turning with the Dane – Nielsen equally precise into bend four – riding directly over the line into lap 2

Matching each other down the straight – Nielsen and Rickardsson - locked tightly together - through bends 1+2 (lap2) – down the back straight - through bends 3+4 (lap2) – neither of them gaining advantage over the other

Penhall looking to attack – Milne waiting patiently for an opening – that might not come – all four riding flat out along the home straight into lap 3
Rickardsson probing under Nielsen into bend one (lap 3) – the Dane not giving way – tight on to the line through bend two (lap3) – Rickardsson trying round the outside – onto the back straight – Penhall a step behind the Swede – high mid track – Milne probing – waiting his time

Rickardsson drives hard under Nielsen – into bend three (lap3) – twisting the Dane’s rear wheel away from the line – T/R pressing the issue – Nielsen coming off the line – Rickardsson pushing hard – lifting Nielsen with raised elbow – the Dane wobbling

Nielsen under pressure – powers forward over the line – into lap 4
Rickardsson – level with Nielsen – on the inside – holding the line – Nielsen with him – leaning on the Swede – Penhall up high on the boards – Milne sat behind Rickardsson and Nielsen – proceeding into bend one (lap4)

All four rides turn – Rickardsson driving forward – out of bend two (lap4) – slightly ahead of Nielsen – half a wheel – powering onto the back straight – hoping to keep going – Penhall over Nielsen’s shoulder – Milne pushing at the Dane’s rear wheel

Rickardsson into bend three (lap4) – turning smoothly – in control – for the moment – with Nielsen pushing under him – Penhall not that far away from the Dane – Milne poised at the back – knowing what worked before – could do so again – his own American concept – of how this race should work out

Rickardsson driving now – towards the line – a momentary pause – as if time stood still – the crowd rising to their feet – at this signal given – Nielsen picking up grip – Penhall drawing level with the Dane – Milne making his move – the crowd roar

The chequered flag – welcomes Rickardsson home – three valuable points – the crowd still roaring – as Penhall pips Milne to the line – pushing the hapless Nielsen to one side – befuddled by aggressive ancient speedway riding tactics

Tony Rickardsson 3 – Bruce Penhall 2 – Jack Milne 1 – Hans Nielsen 0

‘An unbelievable bit of speedway racing from Bruce Penhall and Jack Milne,’ Kelvin screamed in amazement.
‘The American pair were determined to get something out of that one,’ yelled Pearson. ‘A fantastic race by all concerned, what do you guys make of all this in the studio?’

‘Rickardsson really held his nerve in that one,’ enthused Keith. ‘This meeting has really turned the formbook upside down and some. What do you make of it all Chris Louis?’
‘Is this now what a Wembley world final is all about,’ said Chris Louis, ‘how often has it happened that the fancied rider on the night has failed to produce the expected goods on the night, I don’t know about you but I am really enjoying this meeting.’

‘On paper you’d expect certain riders like Mauger, Rickardsson and Nielsen to pile up the points as a matter of course,’ said Steve Johnson, ‘but we’re talking world champions here. All of them racing to prove a point, to cement their reputations as rides to be respected and none of them are prepared to lay down and let four, five, or six times world champions roll over them.’

‘Ove Fundin’s not let anyone roll over him yet,’ said Keith. ‘He must be really chuffed right now with those six points tucked safely away under his belt.’
‘There is a long way to go yet,’ said Chris Louis. ‘Fundin has a whole bevy of world champions to contend with yet and he has never won a world championship with a maximum let’s not forget that!!!’

‘All those other champions are poised to capitalise on any mistake Fundin is likely to make,’ added Steve Johnson. ‘I don’t think this meeting is over yet by a long way. In fact I believe with that last race finally the meeting has caught fire.’

‘It hasn’t been doing too flaming bad so far,’ chuckled the witty Keith, ‘but yes I think you’re right about that. That last race certainly had the crowd on their feet, especially the Cradley supporters when Penhall got that second placing. I also notice that Jack Milne has been very crafty in his riding tonight too He must be very satisfied with his four points scored thus far.’

‘We are talking world champions who won their world titles in the Wembley arena,’ said Chris Louis. ‘I believe this is the reason they are performing so well and upsetting everyone. They regard this stadium as home ground and as such they are all primed to do well here.’

None more than Ove Fundin I might add,’ said Steve Johnson, ‘who won four of his world titles here more than anyone else in fact.
‘All the same,’ said Keith ruefully, ‘he has my old mate Barry Briggs to contend with in his next race (heat 10) – not to mention Tony Rickardsson and Bluey Wilkinson. But before that we have heat nine coming up I wonder what Jack Milne will get up to in this one, back to Kelvin and Nigel.’

‘Jack Milne has everything to gain in this one,’ said Nigel Pearson. ‘He has points in hand over the other three riders so it’s in his interests to capitalise on that fact.’
‘But Collins, Gundersen and Ronnie Moore will all want those points too,’ said Kelvin. ‘I anticipate just as hard a race here as we have seen up to now.’

[Deleted]

Heat Nine
6. Red Peter Collins
16. Blue Jack Milne
1. White Eric Gundersen
11. Yellow Ronnie Moore

On the track:
It might have been that Eric Gundersen - thought the Danish contingent – against expectations perhaps – weren’t doing as well has they should be doing – or it might have been that he realised – he was in a position to be the leading Danish scorer

Whatever the motivation – Gundersen made a superlative start – gliding to the line over the pedestrian Collins – Jack Milne forced to shut off – baulked by Collins – coming off his line – Ronnie Moore following the Dane over the British and American riders


Gundersen rode through bends 1+2 – Ronnie Moore tight underneath him – Jack Milne riding mid track – pressing forward down the back straight – Collins not out of it – riding the highline looking for the grip – keeping him in contact with the leaders

Gundersen – powers through bends 3+4 – aiming to widen the gap between himself and his pursuers – aware of Milne’s last gasp dashes to the line – the Dane driving over the line into lap 2

Ronnie Moore pushing under Gundersen – entering bend one (lap2) – Milne mid track turning hard - on the apex of the corner – driving forward – over Gundersen’s shoulder – into bend two (lap2) – the Dane still ahead out onto the back straight
Moore right behind the Dane – Milne beside Moore – Collins up by the fence – trying to find that drive – that might carry him past all three – down on the lower line

Gundersen going into bend three (lap2) – tight to the line – smoothly through bend four (lap2) – moving forward rapidly over the line into lap 3 – waiting for an attack by someone – realising just how patient Moore and Milne can be

Through bends 1+2 (lap3) – Gundersen ploughs on – down the back straight – through bends 3+4 (lap3) – thinking now the attack might not come – that his bike is fast enough- entering onto the home straight – over the line into lap 4

Gundersen turns into bend one (lap4) – perhaps too confident in his leading
position – drifting off his line slightly – finding Ronnie Moore pushing underneath him – straightening up a little too sharp

Moore pushing him further off his line - the three riders turning into bend two (lap4) – Milne surging forward –– out onto the back straight - the Dane forced into mid track – a lamb lined up for slaughter – a predatory American on the outside – an equally adept Kiwi on the inside – Collins lurking in the background

Moore – Gundersen – Milne – in line with each other turning into bend three (lap4) – Collins sweeping round the boards – turning hard on the apex of the corner – straightening up – picking up drive – thrusting through bend four (lap4)

The leading three riders emerging onto the home straight – with Collins surging forward – needing to score points – after two pointless rides – picks up grip
Gundersen head down powers towards the line – crossing over – just ahead of Jack Milne – followed by Peter Collins – just managing to pip Ronnie Moore to the finishing post.

Eric Gundersen 3 – Jack Milne 2 – Peter Collins 1 – Ronnie Moore 0

‘Gundersen just managed to hold on there Kelvin,’ announced Nigel Pearson.
‘I think he had the measure of Jack Milne,’ said Kelvin, ‘he’d seen Milne leaving it while the last moment in his last two races. Gundersen was expecting something to happen at the end of the race more than he was at the beginning of it the reason I believe he made such a good start from the gate.’

‘He wanted to put as much mileage between himself and Jack Milne in other words,’ said Nigel, ‘leaving the American with it all to do.’
‘You could tell though that Gundersen was getting more and more nervous as the race went on,’ said Kelvin, ‘but he got there in the end. Peter Collins scored his first point of the night too.’

‘We have a tremendous race in prospect now,’ said Nigel Pearson, with a powerful line up of riders on parade.
‘They don’t come more dramatic and decisive than this one,’ said Kelvin, ‘and before you ask Nigel, don’t expect me to make any predictions, I wouldn’t want to presume who might or might not make it across the line first in this one.’

Heat Ten
12. Red Tony Rickardsson
5. Blue Ove Fundin
15. White Barry Briggs
2. Yellow Bluey Wilkinson

On the track:
It could have been the combined weight of 15 world titles between them – making the riders on gates one to three – give too much credit to each other – or simply because Fundin was sandwiched between his two determined opponents

All the same – when the tapes went it up – Bluey Wilkinson was out of the gate – shooting towards the line – ahead of the three multiple champions

The Australian fully aware – he was more than in contention – when it came to winning this evening’s meeting – if he could ride four laps and finish ahead of these opponents

Briggs was the first of the three – to realise what was happening – thrusting forward from the gate – driving outside of Wilkinson who was going ahead of him to the first bend

Rickardsson was moving forward tight to the line – Fundin was the one – looking as though he was going to be left behind – entering into bend one

All four riders made their turn – into bend two – Briggs on the outside of Wilkinson – Rickardsson sticking tight to the line – the Australian emerging slightly ahead – out of bend two onto the back straight – Rickardsson on the line – Briggs outside of Wilkinson – Fundin sitting at the back

Wilkinson turned into bend three – Rickardsson probing under him – Briggs turning on the outside – looking to drive under – or round the Australian – Fundin sitting at the rear – with nowhere to go – exiting bend four – still stranded at the back

Onto the home straight – into lap 2 – Wilkinson fights to hold onto his lead – Rickardsson pushing forward – with Briggs the other side of Wilkinson – Fundin waiting for the precise moment - when opportunity will open up for him

Rickardsson turns hard into bend one (lap2) – pushing hard under Wilkinson – the Australian drifting off his line – Rickardsson pressing on – turning into bend two (lap2) – Briggs cutting back in on Wilkinson pushing under him – the Australian finding Fundin by his side – as all four riders emerge onto the back straight

Rickardsson is ahead now – pushing his bike to go faster – Briggs hounding the Swede – perhaps expecting it was the other Swede – in this race – he was most expected to have had to contend with - Fundin had his hands full with Wilkinson

The Australian engaging in battle with Fundin – Rickardsson making the turn into bend three (lap2) – Briggs over his shoulder – Wilkinson on the line behind Rickardsson – Fundin directly behind Briggs – all of them turning through bend four (lap2) – onto the home straight into lap 3

Rickardsson holds to the line – turning into bend one (lap3) – Briggs turning tight – aware who was behind him – Wilkinson keeping Fundin occupied – turning into bend two (lap3) – the Australian slightly ahead of the Swede out onto the back straight

The tempo of the race increased – Rickardsson rode flawlessly into bend three (lap3) – Briggs turning in tandem with T/R – Wilkinson turning wider – Fundin cutting in on the Australian – driving forward – into bend four (lap3) - emerging onto the straight

Rickardsson maintained his lead over Briggs – crossing the line into lap 4 – with Fundin and Wilkinson breathing down both their necks – the Australian keeping Fundin occupied – T/R still tight to the line – entering bend one (lap4)

Briggs turned hard – into bend two (lap4) driving forcefully under Rickardsson – trying to buffet the Swede off his line – Wilkinson welcoming the opportunity – to take advantage of Briggs’ manoeuvre – tried to go round the outside of the Kiwi

Rickardsson entered the back straight still ahead of his rivals – Briggs occupied with Wilkinson appearing over his shoulder – moving out to block the Australian – Fundin passing by Wilkinson – finally able to give chase to Briggs

Rickardsson turning into bend three (lap 4) – Briggs tight in on the line – Fundin appearing over his shoulder – Briggs moving out slightly to block Fundin

Rickardsson turning into bend four (lap4) – Briggs moving through the bend – Fundin taking to mid track – Rickardson emerging onto the home straight – head down – thrusting forward – Fundin and Briggs dashing to the line

Briggs connecting his elbow with Fundin’s arm – baulking his nemesis
Rickardson crossing the line – Briggs right behind him – Fundin inches behind the Kiwi – able to hold off the last gasp lunge for the line from Bluey Wilkinson

Tony Rickardsson 3 – Barry Briggs 2 – Ove Fundin 1 – Bluey Wilkinson 0

‘That little move of Barry Briggs brought him level on points with Ove Fundin,’ said Nigel Pearson, ‘that should please Keith in the studio.’
‘It didn’t do Tony Rickardsson any harm either,’ said Kelvin, ‘my feeling was Fundin was poised to go by both T/R and Barry Briggs. The Ove Fundin Appreciation Society think much the same as I do going by the booing Barry Briggs received as he left the track.’

‘I told you Barry Briggs would come up trumps,’ said a gleeful Keith from the studio. ‘Briggo is level on points with Fundin now and it’s all to play for.’
‘There’s still a long way to go Keith,’ chuckled Kelvin, ‘and if Ivan Mauger can win this one, he will be on seven points the same as Fundin and Briggs.’
‘Hans Nielsen will be looking to score some points here too,’ said Nigel Pearson.
‘As will Peter Craven and Ole Olsen,’ Kelvin added.

Heat Eleven
8. Red Hans Nielsen
9. Blue Ole Olsen
3. White Peter Craven
14. Yellow Ivan Mauger

On the track:
Ivan Mauger made the gate – shooting across the field to the line – Ole Olsen got in Hans Nielsen’s way – Peter Craven rode wisely to the boards – Mauger made his way into bend one – Craven sweeping down from the boards – on a par with Olsen

Mauger turned into bend two – ahead of Olsen on the line – Craven by his side – Nielsen sat behind them between his fellow Dane and the Englishman – poised to make an attack when opportunity came his way

Mauger was glued to the line down the back straight – Olsen on his rear wheel – Craven riding mid track – Nielsen pressing forward – Mauger makes his turn into bend three – Olsen probing under the Kiwi – Craven on the highline – Nielsen mid track

Mauger remained in front out - onto the home straight into lap 2 – Olsen – Craven – Nielsen in line with each other – Mauger turning into bend one (lap2) – Olsen turning tight – Craven wide – Nielsen pushing between Craven and Olsen

Mauger continued in the lead – emerging from bend two (lap2) - down the back straight – Nielsen slightly ahead of Olsen – who remained stuck to the line – Craven riding the fence

Mauger making his turn into bend three (lap2) – Olsen realising he had to attack – pushed under Mauger – Nielsen turned sharp on the apex of the corner – Craven doing the same – a step higher than the junior Dane – driving into bend four (lap2)

Olsen drove Mauger off his line – emerging onto the home straight into lap 3 – Nielsen and Craven topside of Olsen – driving forward towards bend one (lap3)

Mauger getting there first – closing down on Olsen again – turning into bend two (lap3) – Nielsen coming round Olsen – Craven on the highline twisting head down driving forward – out onto the straight

Mauger on the line – driving down the back straight – Craven ahead of Nielsen on the highline – Olsen at the side of Nielsen – Mauger plunging into bend three (lap3) – Craven going wider – Nielsen turning – Olsen moving forward into bend four (lap3)

Mauger – sensing his three opponents were moving in for the kill – accelerated through the line into lap four – down the straight – into bend one (lap4) – Craven –cutting in – getting ahead of Nielsen and Olsen – emerging from bend two (lap4)

Nielsen and Olsen – drove hard down the back straight – into bend three (lap4) – close behind Mauger and Craven – into bend four (lap4) – emerging onto the home straight

Mauger drove hard for the line – crossing slightly ahead of Hans Nielsen – pushing his way through – ahead of Peter Craven – who held out Ole Olsen

Ivan Mauger 3 – Hans Nielsen 2 – Peter Craven 1 – Ole Olsen 0

‘We are definitely getting to the rough end of the meeting,’ said Kelvin profoundly.
‘I think it’s going to get a whole lot rougher before it’s over too.’
‘Who would have thought Ole Olsen would fail to score in two heats in a World Final,’ said Nigel Pearson!

‘This meeting is all about who will drop points,’ said Kelvin, ‘even more than about who will score them. As we have seen not one rider is on maximum points so far. Not even those who have yet to take their third ride.’

‘We have Fundin, Briggs and Mauger on seven points, Jack Milne and Tony Rickardsson on six points,’ said Kelvin, ‘with Gundersen on five and Nielsen on four.’
‘It will be interesting to see what happens in the next race,’ said Nigel, ‘there are four more riders here who will all expect to score points as a matter of course, but one of them won’t!!!’

Heat Twelve
13. Red Jason Crump
4. Blue Bruce Penhall
10. White Jack Young
7. Yellow Bjorn Knutson

On the track:
Bruce Penhall flew from the gate over Jason Crump – who drove into the first bend – along side Jack Young – who had elbowed his way past Bjorn Knutson – who would have cut in – if not for the Australian – cutting off his drive forward

Bruce Penhall turned out of bend two ahead of the field – with Crump behind him on the line – Young at the side of Crump – flying down the back straight – Knutson took up position mid track – poised behind the two Australians to take advantage if either of them made a fatal mistake

Penhall turned into bend three – Crump driving under the American – Jack Young going wide – turning hard – picking up drive – exiting bend four his front wheel parallel with the American’s rear wheel – heading into lap two

Crump also drew alongside the American – who powered into bend one (lap2) – with Crump pressing on underneath him – Young probing round the outside – turning sharp through the apex of the corner into bend two (lap2)

Along the back straight Penhall held onto his lead – the two Australians staying with him – Knutson probing now and then for a way through – waiting patiently for the moment to strike

Through bends 3+4 (lap2) Penhall powered forward – the intensity of the racing building as the riders crossed the line into lap 3 – Penhall making his way into bend one (lap3) – Young now driving under Penhall – Crump taking the high line – Knutson probing between them – exiting bend two (lap3)

Out onto the back straight Penhall drives forward flat out – the Australians kept occupied closing the door on Knutson – who began to cause them problems – Penhall was untroubled turning into bend three (lap3)

Young once again pushed under the American – Crump driving round the outside – Knutson probing into the gap growing between the two Australians – Penhall drifting off his line to block Crump’s advance

Young presses the issue onto the home straight into lap four – Penhall ahead by a wheel length – broadsiding into bend one (lap4) – pushing Crump wide – taking his line – Young turning sharp into bend two (lap4) – emerging slightly in front of the pack

Penhall drives forward onto the back straight – level with Young – who is on the inside of the American – Young half a bike length behind Penhall on the outside
Knutson still a threat to all three – aware of last bend thrusts to the line

Young is stretching his lead entering bend three (lap4) – the tension in the riders actions are transmitted to the crowd – who begin to rise to their feet – Young turns into bend four – Penhall turning with him – Crump high on the boards

All four riders emerge out of bend four (lap4) – now making what seems now - like a marathon run to a line – that seems a mile away to them – Young accelerates – as does Penhall – Crump – Knutson – it will be all over in a few seconds

Penhall picks up grip dashes to the line – Young a tyre width behind the American –Crump holds off Knutson’s determined last gap effort to get by the Australian

Bruce Penhall 3 – Jack Young 2 – Jason Crump 1 – Bjorn Knutson 0

‘A fine ride by Bruce Penhall,’ announced Nigel Pearson.
‘Jack Young was tremendous,’ said Kelvin, ‘the way he battled Penhall all the way to the line once they were all clear of the fourth bend.’

‘Crump did well to keep Bjorn Knutson at the back too,’ said Nigel who paused then said, ‘they have all had three riders now Kelvin. I think it’s time to hand back to Keith in the studio to sum up the meeting so far.’

‘I am satisfied with the way things are going so far,’ said Keith direct to camera mouthing silently the name ‘Barry Briggs, ‘what about you Chris Louis and you Steve Johnson, Chris???’

‘Fundin, Mauger,’ Chris paused and smiled, ‘and your old mate Barry Briggs at the top of the pile, Rickardson, Milne, Penhall and Jack Young right behind them on six points. Gundersen on five with Hans Nielsen not so good on four points.’ Chris paused again, ‘it more or less sounds right to me.’

‘Do you think that it was right Tomasz Gollob was excluded from the meeting,’ asked Keith, ‘in favour of Jack Young, Steve Johnson?’
‘I think it was yes,’ said Steve Johnson, ‘taking nothing away from Gollob, but Jack Young is a double world champion.’ Steve paused, grinned and said, ‘you might have noticed up to now Jack Young is the most consistent rider on show with 2 points scored in each of his three races!!!’

‘I agree that Jack Young should have been in the Grand Final all along,’ said Chris Louis, ‘I also thought Freddie Williams should have been in there too especially after winning the grand prix in Australia in the manner he did. But someone had to fall by the wayside Freddie Williams was the one who drew the short straw. It’s a pity Tomasz Gollob never had the chance to ride here at Wembley.’

[Deleted]

‘Speaking of Freddie Williams,’ said Keith, ‘I am told that we have an extended interval that will include a series of races involving seven riders who have never won a world championship competing against Freddie Williams for a special nominated trophy which has been christened the ‘Wembley Star Championship Trophy. This meeting within a meeting will consist of four races, with the top four scoring riders going forward into a fifth race. The winner of this ‘Grand Final’ will be ‘Wembley Star Champion.’

Heat One
Red Vic Huxley (Australia)
Blue Tom Farndon (England)
White Vic Duggan (Australia)
Yellow Jack Parker (England)

On the track:
Peter Craven insisted – and it was his personal pleasure – to push start Tom Farndon’s bike as the British rider prepared to ride onto the Wembley track.
The moment the four racers wheels touched the track, the Wembley crowd realised, by all the riders body language, that they were serious in their intentions of winning this special meeting

Farndon made the gate – over Vic Huxley – Vic Duggan holding out Jack Parker – with Farndon riding to the line smartly – with Huxley right behind him - Duggan baulking Jack Parker

Farndon into bend one – Huxley on his rear wheel – Duggan just over Huxley’s shoulder – Parker taking the highline – entering bend two – sweeping down from the line – looking to split the Australians – along the back straight

That Farndon was determined to win this race was evident – by the manner he drove tight into bend three – turning into bend four – with Huxley chasing him hard – Duggan harassed by Jack Parker – looking for a way past Duggan

The race began to hot up into lap two – Huxley pressed hard on Farndon – Parker made his way round Duggan – he needed to score points for the final

Parker pushed past Duggan along the back straight in lap two – chasing Huxley through bends 2+3 – Farndon holding tight to the line – ploughing through bends 3+4 into lap 3 still ahead of the determined Australian rider.

Huxley drove under Farndon into bend one (lap3) – Parker riding midtrack – Duggan turning in – driving forward coming under Parker – Huxley level with Farndon – exiting bend two (lap3) – Parker on the line pushing forward along the back straight

Huxley with Parker and Farndon alongside him – turning into bend three (lap3) – Duggan right behind them – exiting bend four (lap3) still level – Farndon nosing ahead of Parker and Huxley – entering bend one (Lap4) – Duggan attempts to drive between Parker and Huxley – exiting bend two (lap4)

Farndon mid track drives forward onto the back straight – Parker pulling ahead of Huxley – Duggan pushing forward drawing level with his fellow Australian – all four riders turning into bend three (lap4) – through the fourth bend onto the home straight

Farndon accelerates towards the line – Vic Huxley picks up grip – passing Farndon inches from the line – Parker holding out Duggan

Vic Huxley 3 – Tom Farndon 2 – Jack Parker 1 Vic Duggan 0

Heat Two
Red Aub Lawson (Australia)
Blue Split Waterman (England)
White Brian Crutcher (England)
Yellow Freddie Williams (Wales)

Squire Francis Waterman made the gate – problem was Freddie Williams did too – connecting with Waterman – on the turn into the first bend – both riders elbowing each other out of the way – making the turn into bend two

Aub Lawson took advantage of the two British riders tangling with each other – riding tight round the line – emerging from bend one ahead of Williams and Waterman – turning into bend two – driving down the home straight

This was a spirited battle – with Crutcher right behind his fellow British riders – Lawson pounded into bend three – Freddie Williams mid track – Waterman on the line making up ground on the Australian

Through lap two Lawson managed to hold onto his lead – Williams pushing hard under the Australian into bend one (lap3) – forcing Lawson off his line – Waterman driving round him – exiting bend two (lap3)

Along the back straight – Lawson – Williams – Waterman were in line with each other – Lawson holding to the line – turning through bends 3+4 (lap3) – still ahead along the home straight into lap 4

Waterman and Williams tangled with each other again – going into bend one (lap4) – Crutcher taking advantage of the melee – pushing under Waterman – Williams correcting his mistake – shot out of bend two (lap4) in hot pursuit of Lawson

Williams passed by Crutcher – who held off Waterman’s attack
Williams caught up with Lawson entering bend three (lap4) – pushing hard under the Australian – turning into bend four (lap4)

Lawson and Williams raced along the home straight towards the line – the Australian holding off Williams – followed over the line by Crutcher who managed to stay on his bike – after Waterman charged into him exiting bend four

Aub Lawson 3 – Freddie Williams 2 – Brian Crutcher 1 – Split Waterman 0

Heat Three
Red Brian Crutcher (England)
Blue Vic Duggan (Australia)
White Aub Lawson (Australia)
Yellow Vic Huxley (Australia)



On the track:
Huxley made the gate this time – Lawson cutting across Duggan – turning into bend one on the outside of Huxley – who hugged the line making his turn into bend two

Lawson and Huxley drove hard down the back straight – locked together – seemingly intent on making sure Duggan and Crutcher remained behind them – knowing they were both in the final race if they remained as they were throughout the race

Duggan and Crutcher were galvanised by the tactics of the leading riders – chasing the leaders through the rest of lap one and all of lap two – Duggan making contact with Lawson into bend one (lap3)

Duggan pushed under Lawson – driving him off his line – emerging on level terms – exiting bend two (lap3) - Huxley realising what was happening – drew ahead of both Duggan and Lawson – leaving this pair to battle it out for second place

Crutcher involved himself in this battle – attempting to split Lawson and Duggan – along the back straight – pushing under Lawson entering bend three (lap3) – with the Australian pushed mid track – Duggan slipping ahead of Lawson – onto the home straight

Huxley turned through bends 1+2 (lap4) – comfortably ahead of the pack – with Duggan ahead of Lawson – who was attempting to hold of a determined attack – by Crutcher along the back straight

Huxley rode through bends 3+4(lap4) untroubled – the other three riders locked together exiting the fourth bend – with Huxley over the line in first place

Duggan – Crutcher – Lawson scrambled for position crossing the line almost in line with each other – the hard working Tony Steele - once more being called on to decide the finishing order

Vic Huxley 3 – Brian Crutcher 2 – Aub Lawson 1 – Vic Duggan 0

Heat Four
Red Jack Parker (England)
Blue Freddie Williams (Wales)
White Tom Farndon (England)
Yellow Split Waterman (England)

On the track:
All four riders left the tapes in line with each other – Jack Parker holding the line – turning into bend one – Freddie Williams drove under Parker – Farndon driving round the outside – Waterman cut in turning into bend two – tucked in behind Williams and Farndon

Jack Parker pressed on down the back straight – Williams pressing Parker all the way – with Farndon over the Welshman’s shoulder – Waterman between the pair turning into bend three

Parker exited bend four – into lap two with Williams and Farndon right behind him –Waterman taking to the highline – seeking to sweep round the pair in front of him exiting bend two (lap2)

Parker held on to the lead through bends 3+4 (lap2) – with his three pursuers right behind him – over the line into lap 3 – Parker stuck to the line into bend one (lap3)

Farndon was pressed by Split Waterman coming out of bend two (lap3) – sliding by Farndon emerging onto the back straight – Williams still hounding Parker along the back straight into bend three (lap3)

Williams drove under Parker exiting bend four (lap3) – Waterman mid track – holding out Farndon – while making an attempt to drive past Williams and Parker – when picking up grip – emerging onto the home straight into lap4

Through bends 1+2 (lap4) Parker held off determined attacks by Williams – Waterman keeping Farndon occupied down the back straight – Parker making his way into bend three (lap3) – with Williams probing under him

Farndon climbing high towards the fence – on the apex of the turn into bend four (lap4) – picking up grip – from the same line of dirt Waterman used in the previous lap – Farndon shot forward between Waterman and Williams

Driving hard to the line – Farndon was level with Parker - Williams on the inside of the Belle Vue Ace – Waterman pushing his way through along the fence – Farndon skilfully – blocked Waterman’s drive

Freddie Williams – determined to get into this final at least - passed the BelleVue Ace - leading Parker over the line – Waterman just failing to get by Parker

Tom Farndon 3 – Freddie Williams 2 – Jack Parker 1 – Split Waterman 0

Wembley Star Championship Grand Final

Red Vic Huxley
Blue Tom Farndon
White Aub Lawson
Yellow Freddie Williams

On the track:
Vic Huxley took advantage of his gate position – gliding smoothly to the first turn – Farndon holding out Lawson – attempting to clamp down the English rider – Freddie Williams making a determined ride round the boards

Huxley emerged from bend one ahead of the field – Farndon – pressed by Williams attempting to drive under him – Lawson probing around the outside of Farndon - Huxley making his way into bend three – slightly off the line

Farndon turning sharp into bend four – picks up drive again – shooting forward – level with Huxley on the outside – Williams and Lawson – on a par with each other – all four riders driving hard into lap2

Farndon turns hard into bend one (lap2) – hoping to pick up more drive – on the apex of the corner – to drive forward past Huxley – the grip isn’t there – but Williams and Lawson are – pushing under Farndon exiting bend two (lap2) - onto the back straight

Huxley clings to the line – making his way into bend three (lap2) – Williams now pressuring him Farndon at the rear of the field – trying to fight his way past Lawson

Williams is under Huxley – exiting bend four (lap3) – pushing level with the Australian – onto the home straight into lap four – with Farndon pushing his way under Lawson entering bend one (lap4)

Huxley makes his way out of bend two (lap4) – half a wheel length ahead of Williams – who has Farndon coming round the outside of him – powering down the back straight – with Huxley ahead slightly into bend three (lap4)

Williams drives under Huxley into bend four (lap4) – Farndon looking for that grip –Lawson seeking it out too – all four rides in a ragged line emerging from the fourth bend – each one driving forward to the line

Farndon finds the grip he is looking for – propels forward – crossing the line ahead of Freddie Williams – a wheel length ahead of Vic Huxley – inches ahead of Lawson

1st Tom Farndon – 2nd Freddie Williams - 3rd Vic Huxley - 4th Aub Lawson

Mr John S Hoskins stepped forward to present Tom Farndon with the winners Gold Medal confirming Farndon as Wembley Star Champion – Silver medal to Freddie Williams – Bronze medal to Vic Huxley
The riders then took the applause of speedway supporters who acknowledged the contribution to Speedway by these pioneers of this sport.

‘It was grand to see all those old speedway riders take to the track again,’ sighed Steve Johnson, ‘a pity it wasn’t an Australian rider who won it though.’
‘Tom Farndon was a popular winner of the Wembley Star Championship,’ said Chris Louis, ‘going by the reaction of the supporters to Farndon as he rode round the track after his final race. It might be a good idea to hold some sort of Championship for all those riders who never won a world championship.’

‘Not more mystical shenanigans,’ grimaced Keith to camera, ‘we have enough of them going on in this Grand Prix series without anymore going on, thank you very much. I think it’s time to turn our attention to the upcoming races in the second half of the meeting, after the distractions from it going on in the interval.’ Keith paused.

‘So gentlemen what can we expect to happen in the next four races?’
‘We have four more solid races coming up,’ said Chris Louis, ‘the next one alone is a going to be a gigantic tussle between Rickardsson and Mauger. Then there is Nielsen, Gundersen, Crump and Wilkinson, need I go on Keith?’

‘I don’t think so,’ said Keith, ‘in fact I am informed that it’s time to hand back to Nigel and Kelvin in the commentary box. Riders are coming out for heat 13.
‘Yes it’s heat thirteen alright,’ said Nigel, ‘and it’s going to be unlucky for some of these great riders, without a doubt.’
‘It’s one of those races we are better off letting unfold of it’s own accord,’ said Kelvin, ‘rather than speculate as to who might win it, as it could be anyone.’

[Deleted]

Heat Thirteen
7. Red Bjorn Knutson
12. Blue Tony Rickardsson
14. White Ivan Mauger
1. Yellow Eric Gundersen

On the track:
There was too much fuss at the gate – referee Tony Steele finally putting on the two minute warning buzzer – a veiled threat – exclusions could result – if the riders didn’t settle down and actually get ready to race

Rickardsson – Mauger – Gundersen flew from the gate – each one intent on putting one over on the other – Rickardsson stretched himself out – willing his bike forward – Mauger drove coolly on – Gundersen attempting to round Mauger on the outside

Rickardsson made his turn into bend one – Mauger underneath him – Gundersen riding round the highline

Rickardsson was ahead out onto the back straight – determined to hold onto his lead – Mauger over his shoulder now – extracting every ounce of power from his machine – to keep in contact with the leading Swede – Knutson once again poised at the back – waiting for any opportunity to pass any of the leaders

Rickardsson sailed into bend three – Mauger stalking him – but content to wait – Gundersen riding high still – Knutson over Mauger’s shoulder – turning into bend four – the Kiwi coming off his line – Knutson driving under Mauger

Mauger closed the door on this assault – allowing Rickardsson valuable time – to open up a slight lead – over the line into lap 2 – with Gundersen riding along the fence – attempting to outpace Mauger’s speed machine

T/R makes his turn into bend one (lap2) – Mauger tight to the line – right behind him - Knutson mid track – driving up towards the fence – engaging Gundersen in battle - Mauger concentrating on making ground up on Rickardsson – exiting bend two (lap2)

Rickardsson a bike length in front of Mauger along the back straight – keeping tight to the line - into bend three (lap2) – Mauger probing under him – looking for a way through – making the turn into bend 4 (lap2) – driving forward into lap 3

Mauger gains an extra push from grip along the home straight – shoots forward – turning into bend one (lap3) – over Rickardsson’s shoulder – turning very sharp – on the apex of the bend shooting forward – alongside T/R exiting bend two (lap3)

The two six timers – neck and neck along the back straight – Mauger feinting – to go round the outside of Rickardsson – entering bend three (lap2) – T/R moving off his line – to block the anticipated move around him

Mauger cutting back in tight – the Kiwi cuts in under Rickardsson – buffeting the Swede further into mid track – Mauger making his turn into bend four (lap3) – Gundersen even trying to follow the Kiwi through the growing gap

Rickardsson closes the door on the Dane – Knutson appearing over T/R’s shoulder – Rickardsson driving forward – a wheel length behind Mauger – entering lap 4

Mauger now tight to the line – turns into bend one (lap4) – Rickardsson turning in tandem with him – turning again – into bend two (lap4) – Gundersen a step back and higher over T/R – Knutson sat behind – waiting to push between Gundersen and T/R

Mauger emerges onto the back straight – Rickardsson at his side – each of them driving as fast their machines would carry them – along the straight

Mauger turning now into bend three (lap4) – Rickardsson right there at his side – Gundersen a wheel length behind – Knutson poised hoping for grip to shoot him forward – out of the last bend – onto the straight towards the line

Mauger exitis bend four (lap4) – slightly ahead of Rickardsson driving on the outside of Mauger – Gundersen half a bike length behind T/R – Knutson picking up that grip propelling him forward – a contender in the last dash of champions to the line

Mauger manages to hold off Rickardsson – Knutson passing Gundersen as they cross the line – Knutson awarded third place by Tony Steele after much deliberation

Ivan Mauger 3 – Tony Rickardsson 2 – Bjorn Knutson 1 – Eric Gundersen 0

‘Ivan Mauger will be well pleased with that result,’ enthused Kelvin.
‘One six times champion showing another six times champion how it’s all done perhaps Kelvin,’ said Nigel?

‘You had to hand it to Mauger there for his persistence,’ said Kelvin, ‘but after all it is the Grand Final and I have no doubt Ivan Mauger sees himself as a true contender for All Time Great World Champion even if no one else does.’
‘Mauger has gathered himself in ten points now,’ added up Nigel, ‘Briggs and Fundin can only equal that tally in their next races.’

‘Mauger knows he has everything to gain if he can win his last race,’ said Kelvin. ‘Mauger can focus totally now on his meeting with Fundin, Penhall and Moore in heat twenty. Win that one and Ivan Mauger is All Time Great World Champion by six points presuming Fundin finishes on twelve points.’

‘That’s presuming Fundin wins his next race and Mauger beats Fundin,’ said Nigel.
‘IF Mauger beats Fundin,’ Kelvin chuckled. ‘Heat twenty will be a very interesting race as we must not forget that Ronnie Moore and Bruce Penhall are in that race too.’

‘Penhall can be a real threat,’ added Nigel, ‘he has not done bad at all tonight with six points from three rides, win his last two races and he’s in with a shout for a rostrum finish and even winner on the night position.’
‘And there is the enigmatic Ronnie Moore,’ said Kelvin, ‘he could really surprise them all if he is so inclined to do so.’
‘Speaking of Ronnie Moore,’ said Nigel, ‘he is out on the track right now.’

Heat Fourteen
2. Red Bluey Wilkinson
13. Blue Jason Crump
8. White Hans Nielsen
11. Yellow Ronnie Moore

On the track:
Bluey Wilkinson streaked from the gate – Jason Crump appeared to baulk Nielsen’s smooth glide to the line – pulling slightly wide on leaving the gate – Nielsen now forced to shut off - then cut in behind Wilkinson

Ronnie Moore took to the boards – cruising all the way round them – into bend one – cutting in on both Crump and Nielsen – exiting bend two behind Wilkinson – ahead of Nielsen and Crump – who were side by side entering the back straight

Wilkinson held tight onto the line – finding the shortest way round the track – Moore tucked in tight behind the Australian – ensuring that those behind him – would have two riders to pass – rather than one of them

Wilkinson drove through bends 3+4 – with Moore shielding them both – from attacks round the outside – Moore moving out to block Nielsen’s attempted overtake – aware that Crump was riding round the boards – looking to sweep past both Moore and Nielsen – entering onto the home straight into lap 3

Wilkinson rode into bend one (lap2) – with Moore remaining tucked in behind him –Nielsen over the Kiwi’s shoulder – realising time was going by – and waiting for opportunity to drive under Moore – was wasting that time

All four riders turned hard into bend two (lap2) – Wilkinson still ahead of the field –out onto the back straight – Crump still on the highline riding hard – waiting for the chance to cut in on the leaders

Wilkinson entering bend three (lap2) – Moore still on his rear wheel – Nielsen turning sharp – cutting back getting in line – driving forward into – through – out of bend four (lap4) – picking up sufficient drive – to take him alongside Moore

Moore matched Nielsen’s aggressive drive along the straight into lap3 – Wilkinson still outpacing the Kiwi/Danish pairing behind him

Crump harassed Nielsen and Moore – entering bend one (lap3) - driving up to the boards – bouncing off them – pushing forward – exiting bend two (lap3) – half a bike length behind Nielsen

All three riders gave chase to Wilkinson – down the back straight – the Australian making his way into bend three (lap3) – Moore turning tightly – Nielsen finding it difficult up against – the most natural of riders ever to grace speedway

Crump pressing into bend four (lap3) – still on the high ground – still pressuring Nielsen onto the home straight – over the line into lap 4 – Wilkinson looking home and dry on his favoured Wembley circuit

Driving hard and tight – into bend one (lap4) – Moore still precisely turning – glued to the line – Nielsen just as precise – mid track – turning tight – keeping close on to Moore – aware if he drifted out – too far – Crump could and would – cut in on him

Out of bend two (lap4) – Wilkinson hugs the line – Moore drifts slightly off the line –towards the end of the strait - pushing Nielsen out further into mid track – Crump sliding up between the fence and the Dane – Wilkinson turning into bend three (lap4)

Wilkinson positioning himself – to take the apex of the turn – to open up – to propel himself forward out of bend four (lap4) – Moore taking given opportunity – drives hard under Wilkinson – a surprising manoeuvre - moving the Australian off his line

Exiting the last bend – Moore is drawing level with Wilkinson – drifting to his right
Gaps are opening up – Nielsen is poised to drive forward out of the bend – Crump sweeping round the boards is in the line up – driving towards the finish line

The riders are almost in line with each other – approaching the chequered flag – each of them crossing the line – TV pundits debate the result of the race – everyone awaits the referees final decision – which finally arrives

Ronnie Moore 3 – Bluey Wilkinson 2 – Jason Crump 1 – Hans Nielsen 0

‘Ronnie Moore certainly had the bit between his teeth there,’ observed Nigel.
‘My belief is Moore is one of those riders,’ decided Kelvin, ‘who is the one most likely to come up with the unexpected when least expected to do so.’

Moore has had a quiet night so far,’ said Pearson, ‘but he really turned it on out there just the. How amazing it is that Hans Nielsen has failed to score in two of his rides and only managed to score four points.’

‘It’s not for the want of trying though,’ said Kelvin defending the Dane’s position in this meeting. ‘Someone is always going to suffer in a meeting of this calibre. Look at triple champion Olsen on one point less than Nielsen, triple champion
Gundersen and double champion Peter Craven one point ahead of Nielsen.’

‘It’s certainly down to Nielsen to make something of his last race,’ said Pearson, ‘but he’s up against stiff opposition from Gundersen, Briggs and Young, and so it goes on.’
‘It does Nigel,’ said Kelvin, ‘I am sure there will be some ‘goings on’ in this next race too with Jack Young in this one up against Peter Craven and Jack Milne. I reckon there will be more fireworks here.

Heat Fifteen
16. Red Jack Milne
3. Blue Peter Craven
10. White Jack Young
5. Yellow Ove Fundin

On the track:
Fundin simply flew from the gate to the line – Milne baulked by Craven – who broadsided – thumping Jack Young – who instinctively veered left slightly – when Fundin drove past him – on the way to the first bend

There was power and control in Fundin’s determined drive through bend one – into bend two – this being the point where the senior Swede – laid down his marker – indicating he was going to be there – in heat twenty – to have it out with Ivan Mauger

Peter Craven followed in Fundin’s wake – as the race was in progress – supporters were already debating – was Craven trying to catch Fundin – or was Craven holding up – the progress of Milne and Young

Fundin cruised into bend three – Craven riding high and low on the track – looking for grip – trying to keep in contact with Fundin – Jack Young equally as skilful as Craven – was fighting off Jack Milne – who also needed those valuable points

Fundin emerged from bend four – Young twisting and turning – on the apex of the corner – Young over his shoulder – Milne cutting in under both riders – driving forward onto the home straight into lap 2

Fundin rode through bend one (lap2) – Craven – Milne – Young a bike length and a half behind the Swede – realising already they were fighting for a maximum of two points – Craven riding up on the fence – Young mid track – Milne close to the line

Fundin exited bend two (lap2) – stretching the lead – Craven driving forward out of the bend – all three along the back straight – in step with each other – into bend three (lap2) – Young pushing himself forward – from the apex of the corner –out of bend four (lap2) – over the line into lap 3 – ahead of Milne and Craven

None of this trio of riders were giving in to the other – realising they had fallen into an old Fox’s trap – which was to leave these three champions – to contend with each other – while the Fox – made off with the pickings

Milne rode tight on the line – through bend one (lap3) – Young over his shoulder – Craven taking to the boards – picking up the grip – thrusting forward – out of bend two (lap3) – onto the back straight in tandem with Milne and Young

Fundin rode imperiously into bend three (lap3) – Milne entered the bend ahead of Young – Craven turning in sharp – thrusting forward – driving between the Australian and the American – second to Fundin – for the moment – exiting bend four (lap3)

Milne drove forward along the back straight – side by side with Jack Young – unwilling to let Craven settle into a confirmed second place – each of them turning into bend three (lap4) – reeling in the Belle Vue Ace – adeptly making his turn – on the apex of the corner – exiting bend four (lap4)

Fundin was riding across the line – with a frenetic trio of riders in his wake – each of them determined to get to the line first – almost touching – pressing on regardless – taking the flag in second place – Jack Young – followed over the line in third place – Peter Craven – with Jack Milne inches behind them

Ove Fundin 3 – Jack Young 2 – Peter Craven – Jack Milne 0

‘Fundin wasn’t hanging around in that one,’ chortled Kelvin.
‘He probably didn’t think there was any reason to,’ chuckled Nigel.
‘Seriously though,’ said Kelvin, ‘with him being off of gate 4 he had to make a super gate knowing that he couldn’t afford to get stuck in traffic with riders of the calibre of Young, Craven and Milne otherwise it would have been all over for him right there and then.’
‘But it does set up an interesting finale to tonight’s proceedings,’ said Nigel.

‘There is also the possibility that if Fundin beats Mauger in heat twenty,’ said Kelvin, ‘and Barry Briggs wins his next two races,’ Kelvin paused, ‘we could have a run off between Fundin and Briggs for All Time Great World Champion.’ Kelvin paused again then said, ‘and this should please Keith back in the studio, if Briggs should win the run off,’ Kelvin paused one more time,’ then Barry Briggs would gain the ten golden points and win the title by one point. How’s that for a dramatic finish Nigel?’
‘You couldn’t make it up,’ chuckled Nigel!!! ‘But Briggs has work to do in this race coming up before we can even begin to think of that possibility becoming a reality.’

Heat Sixteen
9. Red Ole Olsen
6. Blue Peter Collins
4. White Bruce Penhall
15. Yellow Barry Briggs

On the track:
Briggs wasn’t actually attempting to emulate Fundin’s superlative start off of gate four – when the tapes went up – he realised as Fundin did that he couldn’t afford – to get stuck in traffic – in a race - containing the calibre of his three current opponents – anymore than Fundin could in the previous race

Briggs’ problem was – Bruce Penhall was now a little bit more primed – to make a lightning start – than was Young, Craven or Jack Milne – Team America were seen in the pits – in deep discussion with Milne and Penhall – before this race began

Penhall was the one American now – who could still finish on twelve points – putting him in the position of a rostrum place – or in a position to run off for a rostrum place – whichever way Team America debated the issue – Penhall had everything to gain

Conversely Ole Olsen might have - by now – been feeling somewhat embarrassed - with his relatively low score – him being the senior member - of the Danish Contingent in the Grand Final – and Peter Collins – well Peter just needed three points to add to his solitary one

Briggs needed the three points – to put himself in contention for a run off for All Time Great World Champion with either Ivan Mauger or Ove Fundin – and Barry Briggs wasn’t OVErly fussy about which one it was!!!

Briggs left gate 4 – at a fair clip – Penhall flew to the line – over Collins – who baulked Olsen’s drive to the first bend – Collins drifting slightly wide – making his turn into bend one - Olsen taking advantage – sliding under the Belle Vue Ace

In drifting wide – Collins slowed Briggs’ advance from the gate – forcing the Kiwi to keep to riding round the boards – if he wasn’t to lose drive – at this crucial moment

Penhall entered bend two – with Olsen right behind him on the line – Collins high mid track – with Briggs cutting in coming under Collins exiting onto the back straight

Penhall was leading down the straight – with Olsen on his rear wheel – Briggs low mid track – head down driving hard – as the American made his way into bend three

Penhall aware - Briggs could be held up by Olsen and Collins – as Jack Milne was by Jack Young and Peter Craven – each of them adept at keeping a rider occupied - while precious laps were eaten up - by the leading rider – drove hard into bend four

Penhall rode onto the home straight – into lap 2 – with Olsen hot on his heels – with Briggs – having taken care of Collins – making ground up on the senior Dane – who was making his turn into bend one (lap2) – as Penhall was making his way through bend two (lap2) – exiting out onto the home straight

Penhall rode flat out all the way – down the straight – knowing full well a mistake at this point in the proceedings - would let those behind him – become a threat – that would give them plenty of time to get by him – at this early stage of the race

The American drove into bend three (lap2) – Olsen right behind him – Briggs taking mid track turning hard - high on the corner – picking up drive – shooting him forward out of bend four (lap2) – onto the home straight into lap 3 – half a bike length behind Olsen

Olsen made his way into bend one (lap3) – Penhall turning through the bend – Briggs skilfully making his turn – picking up more drive – entering bend two (lap3) – Olsen exiting the bend on the line – Briggs appearing over the Dane’s shoulder

Penhall making his way down the back straight – Briggs alongside Olsen – almost touching – Briggs leaning on Olsen – making the turn into bend three (lap3) – both riders turning Briggs pressing on Olsen – entering bend four (lap3) – Olsen losing traction

Briggs emerging from the fourth bend – out onto the straight – ahead of Olsen – pulling away from the Dane – who suddenly had Collins in contention – arriving over his shoulder in the wake of Barry Briggs – who was now over the line into lap 4

Penhall looking back entering bend one (lap4) – realising someone was fast approaching – the American coolly making his turn into bend two (lap4) – accelerating fast out of the bend onto the back straight

Briggs untroubled by Olsen and Collins – drove through bends 1+2 (lap4) in hot pursuit of Penhall – down the back straight – reeling in the American – Penhall holding tight to the line – Briggs running slightly wide – entering bend three (lap4)

Briggs cutting in sharp mid track – making his turn – picking up grip – Penhall moving off the line – on the apex of the corner – Briggs leaning on Penhall – the American pushing back at the Kiwi – throwing Briggs off his line – as he turned into bend four (lap4)

Briggs and his bike hurtling towards the fence – the four times world champion – forced to slide himself off his machine – fortunate Collins had the presence of mind to cut in on the falling rider – Olsen tucked in on the line driving through

Penhall driving forward over the line – Olsen right behind him – Collins picking up third place.

Briggs was looking up at the referees box – no doubt inquiring as to why there were no red lights – calling for the race to be stopped – and more importantly – no white exclusion light appearing

Bruce Penhall 3 – Ole Olsen 2 – Peter Collins 1 – Barry Briggs 0

‘Speedway supporters will be talking about that one for years to come,’ gasped Kelvin.
‘Was he pushed or did he fall,’ questioned Nigel?

‘Briggs was leaning very hard on Penhall,’ responded Kelvin. ‘Seems to me the referee viewed it has six of one and half a dozen of the other. Either way you play it Briggs lost out in a really big way there Nigel.’
‘He most certainly did Kelvin,’ said Nigel. ‘I think it’s time to hand back to the studio for reaction from Keith, Chris Louis and Steve Johnson!!!’

‘Penhall shoved him off,’ said an emotional Keith, ‘you could see from the video replay Penhall had his foot up. He deliberately fouled Barry Briggs coming out of the last bend. I was expecting the red lights to come on for the race to be stopped. I know Barry Briggs was expecting the same thing judging by his reaction when they didn’t come on. I was shocked when the white exclusion light didn’t appear let me tell you.’

‘I know Tony Steele had a very difficult decision to make there,’ said Steve Johnson.
‘A decision he had to make instantly,’ added Chris Louis, ‘which indicates to me that Tony was thinking that Barry Briggs was the architect of his own destruction.
Like it or not Briggs leant on Ole Olsen in much the same manner on the third and fourth bend of lap three. His tactics with Olsen succeeded but as we have just witnessed they didn’t work when he tangled with Bruce Penhall.’

‘So Barry Briggs won’t be All Time Great World Champion then,’ said Keith ruefully to camera. ‘It’s between Mauger and Fundin now with Penhall in as spoiler in that one too!!!’

‘More than a spoiler,’ said Steve Johnson, ‘if Penhall can win heat 20 and Ove Fundin can keep Ivan Mauger in third place,’ Johnson paused, then Bruce Penhall would be first on the rostrum tonight if nothing else.’
‘Briggs is out again in this next race,’ said the despondent Keith, ‘so back to Nigel and Kelvin, let’s see if Briggo can make up for damage done in the last race!!!’

[Deleted]

Heat Seventeen
1. Red Eric Gundersern
8. Blue Hans Nielsen
15. White Barry Briggs
10. Yellow Jack Young

On the track:
Hans Nielsen was in no mood to hang around waiting for anyone – making the gate – climbing hard over Gundersen – with Briggs charging to the line over Nielsen’s shoulder – Jack Young driving round the boards

Nielsen is first through bend one – Briggs hard on his tail – giving Gundersen a rough time through the turn – Young making his way serenely round the boards – Nielsen exiting bend two ahead of the field

Down the back straight Nielsen stays close to the line – Briggs mid track – determined to get the three points in this one – Nielsen into bend three – through into bend four – Young tussling with Gundersen through the bends

All four riders power across the line into lap 2 – Nielsen keeping control – sliding into bend one (lap2) – Briggs running into the bend – turning sharp – powering out of bend two (lap2) – Young on the high ground above Gundersen

Gundersen stays on the line – looking for Briggs to make another mistake – hoping he might tangle with Nielsen – leaving a way through for the triple champion – Nielsen turns into bend three (lap2) – Briggs turning on the apex of the corner

Briggs powers forward out of bend four (lap2) – very close to Nielsen – but the two riders don’t connect with each other – powering onto the straight into lap 3

Nielsen – intent on maintaining his lead – blocks Briggs attempt to come round him along the straight – Briggs driving under the Dane – entering bend one (lap3) – pushing harder – turning into bend two (lap3)

Nielsen refuses to budge off his line – exiting the bend ahead – continuing to hold off Briggs down the back straight – entering bend three (lap3) – Briggs drives under Nielsen again – still refusing to give way

Briggs pressing again entering bend four (lap3) – changing route emerging onto the home strait - Briggs is over Nielsen’s right shoulder – along the home straight into lap 4

Gundersen and Young shadowing the lead pair through the three laps – keeping in contact with each other – but not about to become entangled with the lead pair – until the final moments of the race – knowing a simple mistake – from those in front - can give them precious points

Briggs is going round Nielsen into bend one (lap4) – Nielsen turns sharp into bend two (lap4) – shooting off down the back straight – with Briggs – more adept at speedway than some gave him credit for – remained in contact with Nielsen

Briggs probed under Nielsen entering bend three (lap4) – pushing his way round the turn – harassing Nielsen all the way into bend four (lap4) – in an attempt to unsettle the Dane – Nielsen straightening up his bike – entering the home straight

The Dane drove toward mid track – on the way to the tapes – the man with the chequered flag stepping onto the track – stepping back a couple of paces – Briggs coming flying by towards the tapes – pushing Nielsen all the way to the line

Briggs last gasp drive to the line – takes Nielsen by surprise – the Kiwi taking the chequered flag – with Jack Young holding off Gundersen’s dash to the line

Barry Briggs 3 – Hans Nielsen 2 – Jack Young 1 – Eric Gundersen 0

‘Barry Briggs more than made up for his ‘error’ in heat seventeen,’ said Nigel, ‘with Nielsen once again the unfortunate victim of circumstance.’
‘My belief is,’ said Kelvin, ‘Briggs was making the point that if he’d have won heat seventeen he would have been running off with either Fundin or Mauger for the title of All Time Great World Champion. Hans Nielsen simply got in Briggs’ way.’

‘But no world champion finishes discredited here tonight,’ said Pearson. ‘There can only be one winner which doesn’t make sixteen losers out of all these world champions who for my money have all proven themselves great in their day.’
‘You can’t argue with that,’ confirmed Kelvin.
‘Though no doubt many will,’ chuckled Nigel!!!
‘There are four more riders out in the next race,’ said Kelvin, ‘each of those having a point to prove for one reason or another. All of them will want to finish with a flourish then see where fortune has placed them in the finishing order.’

Heat Eighteen
9. Red Ole Olsen
2. Blue Bluey Wilkinson
7. White Bjorn Knutson
16. Yellow Jack Milne

On the track:
Ole Olsen made an untroubled journey from the gate to the first bend – Bluey Wilkinson sandwiched between the Dane and Bjorn Knutson – having to shut off – while Jack Milne – drove past the Australian – into bend one – turning tight into bend two – exiting ahead of Wilkinson – onto the back straight

Wilkinson – obviously irritated by being shunted to the back – set off down the straight – like a bullet out of a gun – picking off Jack Milne – when driving under the American entering bend three – forcing the American wide

Wilkinson turned into bend four – straightened up – powered forward – alongside Knutson sat on the line – pacing Olsen down the home straight into lap 2

Wilkinson nosed ahead of Knutson – making the turn into bend one (lap2) – cutting off Knutson’s advance into the bend – in the process – Wilkinson turning hard on the crown of the turn – shooting forward out of bend two (lap2)

Olsen made his way down the straight – was driving into bend three (lap2) – Wilkinson appeared over Olsen’s right shoulder – turning hard into bend four (lap2) – picking up the drive – that thrust him forward down the home straight into lap 3

The Australian was half a bike length behind Olsen – on the outside approaching bend one (lap3) – Wilkinson feinting to go round the Dane entering the bend – cutting in sharp – as Olsen drifted out to block the expected run around the outside

Wilkinson bumped into Olsen – exiting bend two (lap3) – the Dane bouncing to the right – when emerging onto the back straight – Olsen slowed momentarily – Wilkinson pressing his advantage – drove along the line down the back straight

The Australian made a controlled turn into bend three (lap3) – Olsen having recovered made a sharp turn out of bend four (lap3) – only to find Jack Milne arriving over his shoulder – and Bjorn Knutson pushing under him – emerging onto the home straight into lap 4

Milne also appeared to be on a mission – perhaps inspired to have it out with his old sparring partner of the early days of Wembley World Finals – however it was – Milne flew past Olsen along the home straight – and was making contact with Wilkinson

The Australian – aware someone was not too far behind him – made a tight turn into bend one (lap4) – twisting his bike into bend two (lap4) – emerging tight on the line – powering down the back straight – Milne now breathing down his neck

Wilkinson took the turn into bend three (lap4) – Milne probing under the Australian – with Olsen mid track trying to make his way round the American – Knutson poised to capitalise on mistakes made – by any of the three riders ahead of him

Turning tight into bend four (lap4) – Wilkinson hugged the line – back wheel running over the grass verge – ensuring Milne could not drive under him effectively – the Australian entering the home straight

Milne now forced to go low mid track – kept it low and tight turning into bend four –picking up the grip – shooting him forward – in contention with Wilkinson for those last three points of both their nights – Milne neck and neck now with the Australian
Milne presses the issue all the way to the line – pipping Wilkinson to the post – Knutson crossing the line third – a disconsolate Olsen rolling over the line seconds later

Jack Milne 3 – Bluey Wilkinson 2 – Bjorn Knutson 1 – Ole Olsen 0

‘A grudge match there, Kelvin perhaps,’ asked Nigel?
‘It looked very much like it,’ said Kelvin. ‘I was certain that Wilkinson was going to win that one judging by the way he took care of Olsen and Knutson in the early stages of the race. But Jack Milne had ideas of his own when it came to down to who was going to be the one to come out on top between them.’
‘And come out on top he has,’ said Nigel, ‘finishing one point ahead of Wilkinson on nine points.’

‘Peter Craven can finish on nine points here tonight too,’ said Kelvin, ‘if he can take care of one or two or even three things called Rickardsson, Crump and Collins.’
‘It’s another one of those races with four riders all determined to finish on a high,’ said Nigel. ‘None more so than Tony Rickardsson.’
‘None more so than Jason Crump,’ Kelvin chuckled, ‘and Peter Collins and certainly Peter Craven!!!’

Heat Nineteen
3. Red Peter Craven
12. Blue Tony Rickardsson
13. White Jason Crump
6. Yellow Peter Collins

On the track:
Tony Rickardsson was another rider - who hadn’t read the sentimentality clause in this Grand Prix Series – making the gate on this trio of Belle Vue Aces – only to find Peter Craven – right there underneath him – carrying the Swedish rider with him – all the way to the first bend

Crump was quite happy to mix it - with the other great Belle Vue world champion –Collins being the one who immediately proceeded Crump - as the Aces supporters world champion – Collins being the one driving round the boards over Crump

Craven carrying Rickardsson with him into the first bend – Crump pacing Collins round bend one into bend two out onto the back straight adjacent to each other

Craven exiting bend two on a par with T/R – Rickardsson realising that Craven – not for sentimental purposes – but simply because this was the reason he was here – was prepared to give him a race – most likely because this was Craven’s last race of the night – and of this Grand Prix Series

Craven was there with Rickardsson all the way down the back straight – Collins still high to the boards – with Crump right by his side – both a bike length behind – and a step higher than Rickardsson over Craven

Craven displayed his wizardry of balance – making his turn into bend three – pushing Rickardsson wide – Craven turning into bend four – Rickardsson showing he knew how to make a spectacular turn – picking up grip shooting out onto the home straight

Over the line into lap 2 – Craven and Rickardsson were side by side – Crump and Collins locked together just as tightly – right there behind them – Craven making his turn into bend one (lap2) – Rickardsson turning in concert with this Belle Vue Ace – exiting bend two (lap2) – onto the back straight still together

Rickardsson drove mid track entering bend three (lap2) – Craven tight on the line – sticking to the line – making the turn through bend four (lap2) – onto the home straight into lap three – two more Aces behind them – exchanging places all the way

Along the back straight – Craven and Rickardsson paced each other – continuing through bends 3+4 (lap3) – out onto the home straight into lap 4 – Craven turning into bend one (lap4)

Rickardsson leaving little room for the Ace to manoeuvre – Craven again showing how he gained his reputation – balancing precariously on his machine – making the turn into bend two (lap4) – locking with Rickardsson emerging on the straight

Both riders maintaining control of their machines – with Crump and Collins – right behind the leading pair – keeping an eye on each other all the while – waiting for the moment when it was all or nothing – now rapidly approaching

Craven and Rickardsson making their way into bend three (lap4) – Craven making the turn – through bend four (lap4) – Rickardsson in tandem – Craven turning his head momentarily – looking at Rickardsson – a nod of the Aces head

Rickardsson and Craven shot out of the fourth bend to the line – a dramatic dash for the chequered flag – a truly great Belle Vue Ace in contest for the last time – heading for the line – accepting the verdict – whatever that might be

Rickardsson never shut off for one moment – nor would Craven have wanted him to do so – but it was the Belle Vue Ace across the line ahead of the Swede – and it was Peter Collins who headed Jason Crump over the line

Peter Craven 3 – Tony Rickardsson 2 – Peter Collins 1 – Jason Crump 0

There was a silence everywhere in Wembley Stadium for what seemed like an eternity – Craven floated round the track –Rickardsson – Collins – Crump – escorting this greatest of Belle Vue Aces – on his farewell victory lap

The roar of the crowd – seemed as if it came out of nowhere – like the sound of cannon fire – bedlam – as Peter Craven slowly raised his arm – waved at the crowd – rode round a full lap with his three competitors a respectful distance behind – finally Craven disappeared up the ramp into the pits

‘I would be inclined to say,’ said Kelvin eventually, ‘follow that, but we will be doing exactly that very soon now.
‘Heat twenty will shortly take place,’ said Pearson in suitably respectful tones.
‘The moment when all of these things may well be decided. If Fundin wins he is All Time Great World Champion, if Mauger wins ditto, if Penhall wins, he is in a run off with whoever comes second for top rostrum place on the night.’

'But if Penhall wins this race,’ said Kelvin, ‘Fundin wins the whole thing anyway because Mauger doesn’t have enough accumulated points to overhaul Fundin unless he wins heat 20.’
‘So in effect it’s all or nothing for Ivan Mauger,’ said Nigel Pearson!!!

Heat Twenty
5. Red Ove Fundin
14. Blue Ivan Mauger
11. White Ronnie Moore
4. Yellow Bruce Penhall

On the track:
The tension in the stadium was palpable - the riders made their way onto the track. Bjorn Knutson, Peter Craven and Barry Briggs were there to see Ove Fundin and Ronnie Moore ride onto the track. Briggs had words with both Fundin and Mauger.

Team America surrounded Bruce Penhall offering last minute advice
The riders made their way to the tapes you could feel the noise made by the supporters. All four riders showed no emotion as they organised themselves in position at the starting gate. No one gave anyone an advantage by doing anything that gave the impression that they were no less than truly ready for the race about to take place.

The tapes rose – the riders left the gate – Fundin stuck to the line – Mauger leaning on him going into the first bend – Ronnie Moore over Mauger’s right shoulder – Penhall taking to the boards – realising there was a solid wall of speedway riders below him – he was unlikely to get through

Fundin turned into the second bend – Mauger tight to his shoulder – Ronnie Moore exiting the bend – Penhall between Moore and the fence – all four riders driving hard down the back straight

Fundin made his turn into bend three – Mauger still clung to the Swede – Penhall on the highline – Moore mid track – keeping the American occupied – Fundin turning out of bend four onto the home straight into lap 2

Mauger accelerated down the straight – drawing almost level with Fundin – turning into bend one (lap2) – Fundin making a precise turn – forcing Mauger wider on the apex of the corner – Fundin driving into bend two (lap2)

Emerging onto the back straight Fundin kept tight to his line – Mauger right there at his side – Moore in battle with Bruce Penhall – attempting to cut under Moore – one double world champion blocking the move of another

Mauger feinted to go round the outside of Fundin – entering bend three (lap2) – Fundin stayed on his line – Mauger turning tight – straightening up his bike – driving forward out of bend four (lap2) – accelerating along the straight into lap 3

Bruce Penhall was coming high round the boards exiting bend four – Moore drifting close to the American – leaving him room – neck and neck with Penhall along the home straight

Mauger attempting to barge Fundin off his line – entering bend one (lap3) – bouncing of the Swede – Funding turning into bend two (lap3) – Penhall nosing ahead of Moore – exiting onto the back straight – Moore accelerating maintaining contact with Penhall

Mauger made a supreme effort to – draw ahead of Fundin down the back straight – the Swede following his line – turning into bend three (lap3) – Mauger drifting mid track – turning thrusting forward through bend four (lap3) – out onto the straight – into lap 4

The tension in the stadium increased as Fundin drove into bend one (lap4) – Mauger making his turn – aware Penhall was right behind him – Moore poised to drive under him – Fundin turning into bend two (lap4) – tight to his line

Penhall drives forward entering the back straight – Mauger head down – blocks the American’s attempt to go around him – Moore cutting in under Mauger - Fundin turning into bend three (lap4)

Mauger accelerating into the corner – turning hard on the crown of the corner – driving forward – Penhall mid track coming round Mauger - Fundin emerging from bend four (lap4) – onto the home straight

Mauger – Penhall – Moore thrust out of the fourth bend – Fundin driving towards the line – the man with the chequered flag steps onto the track – Fundin crosses the line – Mauger holds off Penhall – the American side by side with Moore

Ove Fundin 3 – Ivan Mauger 2 – Bruce Penhall 1 Ronnie Moore 0

There was silence in the studio – the noise of the crowd drifted in to the living rooms of all those watching the proceedings on television – Fundin rode imperiously round the track – the crowd on their feet

Mauger – Penhall – Ronnie Moore acknowledged Fundin’s victory – at the pits gate Peter Craven, Barry Briggs and Bjorn Knutson joined by Ronnie Moore – the Big Five at last reunited as one – to give Ove Fundin the traditional ‘bumps’ awarded the victor in a World Final

All the other world champions competing in the meeting were there to offer their congratulations to they All Time Great World Speedway Champion

‘Ove Fundin made it look all so very easy in the end,’ said Nigel Pearson finally breaking the silence in the studio. ‘It was almost an anti climax after all the build up to the final race through all those very emotive Grand Prix’s we have witnessed.’

There was long thoughtful silence before Kelvin Tatum spoke.
‘But surely that is the essence of true greatness,’ said Kelvin eventually. ‘The true greatness of Ove Fundin that he made it all look so very natural that he be the one who in the end is the one and only All Time Great World Speedway Champion.’
‘Back to the studio,’ said Nigel Pearson, ‘for reaction from Keith, Chris and Steve.’

[Deleted]

Yes,’ said Keith, ‘first here are the results of tonight’s meeting.’

1. Eric Gundersen………77 0/2/3/0/0 = 5 = 12th
2. Bluey Wilkinson……..85 3/1/0/2/2 = 8 = 9th
3. Peter Craven…………126 2/2/1/1/3 = 9 = 6th
4. Bruce Penhall………...90 1/2/3/3/1 = 10 = 5th
5. Ove Fundin…………..130 3/3/1/3/3 = 13 = 1st
6. Peter Collins………….71 0/0/1/1/1 = 3 = 16th
7. Bjorn Knutson………..90 1/0/0/1/1 = 3 = 14th
8. Hans Nielsen…………119 2/0/2/0/2 = 6 = 10th
9. Ole Olsen…………….108 3/0/0/2/0 = 5 = 11th
10. Jack Young…………...71 2/2/2/2/1 = 9 = 8th
11. Ronnie Moore………...75 1/1/0/3/0 = 5 = 13th
12. Tony Rickardsson…….123 0/3/3/2/2/ = 10 = 3rd
13. Jason Crump…………..75 0/1/1/1/0 = 3 = 15th
14. Ivan Mauger…………..123 1/3/3/3/2 = 12 = 2nd
15. Barry Briggs…………..119 2/3/2/0/3 = 10 = 4th
16 Jack Milne……………..84 3/1/2/0/3 = 9 = 7th

‘In descending order of merit.’

1. Ove Fundin……………130 3/3/1/3/3 = 13
2. Ivan Mauger…………..123 1/3/3/3/2 = 12
3. Tony Rickardsson……..123 0/3/3/2/2/ = 10
4. Barry Briggs…………..119 2/3/2/0/3 = 10
5. Bruce Penhall……….….90 1/2/3/3/1 = 10
6. Peter Craven………….126 2/2/1/1/3 = 9
7. Jack Milne……………..84 3/1/2/0/3 = 9
8. Jack Young………….…71 2/2/2/2/1 = 9
9. Bluey Wilkinson………85 3/1/0/2/2 = 8
10. Hans Nielsen…………119 2/0/2/0/2 = 6
11. Ole Olsen…………….108 3/0/0/2/0 = 5
12. Eric Gundersen………..77 0/2/3/0/0 = 5
13. Ronnie Moore………...75 1/1/0/3/0 = 5
14. Bjorn Knutson………...90 1/0/0/1/1 = 3
15. Jason Crump…………..75 0/1/1/1/0 = 3
16. Peter Collins…………..71 0/0/1/1/1 = 3

‘With all bonus points added on.’

1. Eric Gundersen………77 + 5 = 82 + 10 = 92
2. Bluey Wilkinson……..85 + 8 = 93 + 16 = 109
3. Peter Craven…………126 + 9 = 135 + 22 = 157
4. Bruce Penhall………...90 + 10 = 100 + 24 = 124
5. Ove Fundin…………..130 + 13 = 143 + 42 = 185
6. Peter Collins………….71 + 3 = 74 + 2 = 76
7. Bjorn Knutson………..90 + 3 = 93 + 6 = 99
8. Hans Nielsen…………119 + 6 = 125 + 14 = 139
9. Ole Olsen…………….108 + 5 = 113 + 12 = 125
10. Jack Young…………...71 + 9 = 80 + 18 = 98
11. Ronnie Moore………...75 + 5 = 80 + 8 = 88
12. Tony Rickardsson…….123 + 12 = 135 + 28 = 163
13. Jason Crump…………..75 + 3 = 78 + 4 = 79
14. Ivan Mauger…………..123 + 12 = 135 + 30 = 165
15. Barry Briggs…………..119 + 10 = 129 + 26 = 155
16 Jack Milne……………..84 + 9 = 93 + 20 = 113
‘In descending order of merit with the second set of 15 riders added on making up the total of 31 world champions and their final placing in the
All Time Greats Speedway Grand Prix Series.’

1. Ove Fundin……………185
2. Ivan Mauger…………..165
3. Tony Rickardsson…….163
4. Peter Craven…………..157
5. Barry Briggs…………..155
6. Hans Nielsen………….139
7. Ole Olsen……………..125
8. Bruce Penhall…………124
9. Jack Milne…………….113
10. Bluey Wilkinson………109
11. Bjorn Knutson………….99
12. Jack Young………….….98
13. Eric Gundersen…………92
14. Ronnie Moore……….….88
15. Jason Crump…………….79
16. Peter Collins…………….76
17. Freddie Williams………70
18. Michael Lee…………….70
19. Greg Hancock……………69
20. Anders Michanek……….63
21. Sam Ermelenko…………61
22. Per Jonsson……………...56
23. Lionel Van Praag………..54
24. Billy Hamill……………..52
25. Tommy Price……………46
26. Jan O Pedersen………….37
27. Nicki Pedersen…………..34
28. Egon Muller……………. 34
29. Mark Loram……………..29
30. Gary Havelock…..............27
31. Jerzy Szczakiel..................23

‘And there we have it,’ said Keith, ‘but now we return trackside for the presentation ceremony.’

[Deleted]

A procession of 16 cars made their way out of the pits onto the track each one containing a world champion – making one circuit of the stadium – coming to a halt before the podium – depositing their cargo – then disappearing back into the pits

Mr. John S Hoskins came down from the Royal Box to make the presentation to the riders. First on the podium in third place was Tony Rickardsson receiving his Bronze medal. Ivan Mauger second on the podium receiving his Silver medal.

Ove Fundin stepped forward taking his place on the podium – the grand old man awarded Ove Fundin the Gold medal shaking him warmly by the hand. Fundin then received the All Time Great World Speedway Championship Trophy raising it high above his head.

Fundin handed the trophy to Mr Hoskins then stood up straight once more to take the applause of the stadium crowded with everyone who belongs to speedway.
As he did so the white dove representing the Spirit of Speedway landed on his shoulder. Mr John S Hoskins stepped forward with microphone in hand.
‘
I would like to offer my sincere congratulations to Ove Fundin,’ said Mr Hoskins. ‘The white dove you see here represents the Spirit of Speedway. My belief is Ove Fundin himself is the embodiment of the Spirit of Speedway and without doubt the All Time Great World Speedway Champion.’

‘Well,’ sighed Keith in the studio, ‘there we have it gentlemen. Ove Fundin came out on top in the end. My old mate Barry Briggs finished fifth so I don’t think he or I will have anything to complain about. My thanks to Chris Louis and Steve Johnson in the studio and to Kelvin Tatum and Nigel Pearson in the commentary box, I hope the viewers at home have enjoyed this Grand Prix series as much as we have. Goodnight!!!’

The lights went down on the old Wembley Stadium, this old Palace of Sport closed forever. The last person to leave the stadium was a man dressed in shining black leathers wearing a black Ace on a red and white background. He walked up the ramp towards the door that opened to another time. Just before disappearing through the door Peter Craven turned and looked back one more time on his old stamping ground and said ‘Was this not all real then?’

The door closed behind Peter Craven and then there was a reverential silence. The sound of a trumpet blast broke this silence. The door to another time opened. Through that door rode all the riders who had ever taken part in an Individual World Final and Grand Prix series. One after another the riders rode onto the circuit.

Round and round the riders rode going faster and faster all the time. A great cloud of dust rose off the track high into the air. Eventually the dust settled and when it did there stood the new Spiritual Home of Speedway the Millennium Stadium Cardiff.