Post by speedyguy on Jan 26, 2016 16:10:53 GMT
Doug Serrurier
By John Hyam
Doug Serrurier, one of South African speedway’s post-war international stars, died on June 3, 2006, aged 85 years.
He was one of five speedway racing brothers. Allen, Jack, Harry and Bob were also leading riders in South Africa during the late 1940s and 1950s.
In Britain, Serrurier is best remembered for his seasons at Liverpool in 1949 and 1950. There, his spectacular legtrail style made him an immediate favourite with Stanley Stadium fans. In these seasons, along with Liverpool and South African team-mate Fred Wills, Serrurier also raced regularly in Paris, France, and in Antwerp, Belgium.
In the late 1940s and early 1950s, he was a regular selection for South Africa in domestic test matches, riding in matches against England, Holland and Overseas. After retiring from speedway, Serrurier restored and raced historic cars and motorcycles.
A testimony to Serrurier’s impact on Springbok speedway came from respected historian and journalist Ken MacLeod. He said, “Doug’s death ends another link with the great days of South African speedway.”