Defunct Speedway Tracks

 
 

Miscellaneous
Part 1

 
 
Lee Richardson  Ray Taylor  Norrie Isbister   Digging at the Starting Gate   Early Americans   NZ Smokey Stratton   Speedway Toy Riders   The 2 Stroke Scott Machine  Scott's Red Devil Frank Varey   Billy Lamont   Harley Davidsons  American Board Tracks   Oldest Riders   Lady Riders   Ice Speedway  Slider Shuttleworth   Swindon's Red Devil Mike Broadbanks  The History of the Sport  Cec Warren's 1928 Scrapbook
 
 
 
 

 
 
History of
Dirt Track Speedway

A Short History

By Jeffrey Stafford.

Speedway racing is a sport with an extraordinary history. According to Tom Stenner, speedway correspondent of the London Daily Mail, the first speedway meeting on a dirt track was held at Pietermaritzburg, in South Africa, in 1907. But it can be shown beyond a question of doubt that the United States should be recognized as the birth place of motor cycle racing. One of the principal features of the Butte Athletic Associations meet in July 1901, were  motor cycle tandem races featuring Clem and Charles Turville, Gust Lawson, and John Chapman. The track was constructed of board and designed on the saucer principle by Captain T.O. Angel who had successfully used the same design on cycle tracks in Salt Lake and Los Angeles.

At Indianapolis, on Saturday August 14 1909, two accidents, one of them serious, marred the national motor cycle races. In the team mile professional race, which Jake de Pozier, of Springfield, Mass, was going at a terrific speed, the front tyre of his motor cycle tore off, throwing him heavily to the ground. His injuries were not fatal and he recovered later.

Nevertheless, there can be little doubt that the evolution of Speedway as we know it today took place in Australia. The sport of motor cycle racing that had been popularized in America during the early part of the nineteenth century featured a considerably variety of variations - which were subsequently improved and standardized by a number of Australian promoter’s to give us what is probably the most exciting of all automotive sports.

A dirt track meeting was held on Saturday, October 11 1913, under the auspices of the Victorian Motor Cycle Club. The meeting was marred by the death of Harold M'Coll who collided with a fence and was killed instantly. Another rider, A.W.Maplestone had one of his shoulders dislocated. Twenty seven riders competed in six events. As far as I can ascertain Harold M'Coll was the first victim of a Speedway race in Australia.

Nine out of ten speedway historians credit Maitland showground in New South Wales as being the birth place of speedway racing. However, the first Speedway event, the one that perhaps marks the beginning of Speedway proper, predates the Maitland event by eight years.  Here is an extract taken from the Saturday Referee, 6 February 1915:

Big Easter Carnival, which should provide motor cycling enthusiasts with some fine sport. The events ; 100 miles open state Championship; 600 c.c. State Championship 66 miles ; open handicap 33 miles; and the club handicap 33 miles. The meeting will take place at Gouldburn on Easter Saturday, 3 April, 1915. Nor was the meeting just a one off event, there was a very large attendance for the second motor cycling meeting at Gouldburn held on Easter Saturday, 22 April, 1916. The big event of the 1916 Easter meeting was for machines of all powers, over 100 miles. Of the twelve motor cycles which started, six were Indians, four Excelsior’s, and two Harley Davidsons. L. Frank, astride a 7 h.p. Harley Davidson, proved victorious covering the 100 miles in 2 h 8 min 55 sec.

The Sale Easter Carnival, held on Saturday, 19 March, 1921, represented the greatest attempt that had then been made in Australia to put motor cycling on a solid footing. The choice of Sale as the site for the meeting was made for a variety of reasons.

When the sport began many difficulties were placed in the way of those promoting it. In and about the Metropolitan area of Melbourne and the outlying areas the civic authorities refused to allow motor and motor cycling on roads and the owners of the racecourses refused to allow them to be used for motor cycle racing.

Sale offered sanctuary to motor cycle enthusiasts. Its racecourse and roads were offered, and the support that was forthcoming made the choice easy. The Sale authorities not only recognized the sport, but officially invited the Victoria Motor Club to hold its carnival in the town. For motor cycle racing the only rival was the motordrome at the amateur Sports ground, which in 1921 was not in site of completion. One of the main features of the Sale Easter Carnival was the appearance of two motor cycles that had been built entirely in Australia.

There was never a more successful motor cyclist in Australia than Charles "Daredevil" Disney of Melbourne, known throughout Australia as the most fearless motor cycle rider, he was able to win contest after contest without losing what is commonly termed as "nerve control."

He was the son of one of the Ministers in the 1924 Labour Government in Victoria. He started his riding career in 1915, by winning a seven mile road race gaining first and fastest time.

He started life as a furniture maker, but when his brother returned from the war they became partners in a motor cycle business. As a member of the South Yarra Cycling Club, he achieved varied success over distances ranging from 10 to 20 miles.

From the start of his career Daredevil Disney only utilized Indian motor cycles due to the speed and reliability for which the machines were famous. He knew no fear. He was often accused of being a reckless rider, but he never injured anyone or put anyone's life in danger.

He won his first motor cycle race in 1919 - a five mile side car event. In the same year at the Sale Easter Carnival he established himself as one of Australia's best motor cycle riders by winning in the fastest time the Blue Ribbon event for the road over 200 miles. Then came the Hopkins Cup open race, and after that success on the Aspendale track, reliability trials and jumping records. He held the Australian long distance jumping motor cycle record, covering a distance of 54ft 6in in the leap. He became well known on the speed track as the "Wizard of the Track," and "Daredevil Disney."

In March 1922, he lowered the Adelaide to Melbourne motor cycle solo record on an "Indian" Scout, by registering 16 hours and 14 minutes, breaking the recent record set by Jack Quigley.

On Saturday February 21, 1925, he sustained an injury to his knee while taking part in a preliminary run at the Geelong racecourse, prior to racing against the American Paul Anderson. He was hospitalized for some weeks at Geelong before surgeons give up hope of saving his leg. Disney in the end resigned himself philosophically to losing his left leg to save his life. But that did not dismay him, after leaving hospital he entered cycle races with an artificial limb strapped to the foot rest.

Charles "Daredevil" Disney" died on 5 July 1954, aged 77. He was cremated and his remains were scattered at the Springfield Botanical Cemetery, Melbourne.

In 1922, John S. Hoskins, later known as the prince of speedway promoters, was appointed Secretary of the West Maitland Agricultural Society. At this time the organization was in a bad way. Its membership over the years had plummeted to about 300.

Hoskins tried all manner of attractions - boxing, rodeos, and cycling - but nothing seemed to grasp the attention of the public. Being a motor cycle rider himself, with a number of riders, he approached the committee of the Agricultural Society to ask permission to run a number of motor cycle trials.

The members thought it was pure madness, and told Hoskins he was taking a short cut to death. No amount of persuasion could convince them that it would prove to be a success and a good investment. Eventually, however, Hoskins got his own way and with a rider named Billy Crampton, who was the only one with an actual racing machine in N. S. W., a Norton, he was allowed to give his idea a try out.

One member of the committee, who was actually taken with Hogkins idea, watched over the fence when Hoskins and Crampton were speeding around the track, and later it was mainly through his imput that Speedway eventually opened at Maitland. Construction of the speedway track at Maitland commenced in October 1923, and the first Maitland Speedway meeting was held on Saturday, November 1, 1924, for a double bill of motor cycle and push bike racing. It was not a success. The push bikes showed up the speed failings of the powered bikes they even recorded better times. The track was very small, and of grass. Under half a mile in circumference and thirty feet broad.

There was much hype for the official opening of the first Maitland Speedway meeting held on Saturday, October 17, 1925, when L. B. Meville, mounted on an h.p. Harley Davidson, succeeded in winning the £100 Motor Cycle Handicap. A princely sum in 1925. The attendance was estimated at around 1300, and the number of riders in the motor cycle handicap was a record, 77 starting. Since the close of 1924 the track had been considerably reconstructed. Instead of two straight and four bad turns where many falls had occurred in 1924, the track was oval with a straight run in front of the main grandstand. The track had also been widened from 30ft to 45ft, the banks at both ends had been made very much higher, and a slight smaller embankment had been built all-round the half mile track. There were 28 races -- 23 for motor cycles and five for push bikes.

Apart from the normal speedway meetings at Maitland, Speedway Carnivals were held throughout the year to raise money for local charities. A speedway meeting was held at the Maitland Speedway Carnival on Saturday, 21 February, 1925. In the final of the Championship race, a serious accident occurred. George Kirkwood hit a fence, and another rider E. Buck crashed into him. Buck escaped injury, but Kirkwood sustained a compound fracture of the right leg, which was later amputated. He also sustained many injuries to his head and body.  As a consequence of the terrible injuries received by Kirkwood a safety rail, similar to the one at Speedway Royal was erected.

George Kirkwood was 18 at the time of his accident at Maitland; he was born on 22 April, 1907. He passed away in NSW on 2 March, 1991, the month before his 84th birthday.

A letter from Mr. E. B. Harkness, Under Secretary to the Chief Secretary of NSW to the management of the Hunter River Agricultural and Horticultural Association, criticizing the condition of Maitland Speedway track, was published in the Maitland Daily Mercury, 15 May, 1925. The following is a short extract from the letter:-   

"It has been reported to the department, Mr.Harkness stated, "that the speedway on the society's ground is, in its present condition dangerous to riders. It had been presented, moreover, that since motor cycle racing commenced there in 1924, 33 more or less serious accidents have occurred, resulting in riders receiving, in several instances, injuries necessitating surgical treatment."

There can now be little doubt that the case for the start of dirt track racing at Maitland in 1923 cannot be maintained, and that dirt track racing on the Maitland track did not commence until 1924.

In 1924 a number of Speedway enthusiast held a number of private races on the Brisbane paddock. In the course of time the grass surface became worn, but the process was so gradual that the change from grass to dirt was scarcely noticed. Then, when the riders learned to slide the corners on the dirt surface speedway racing became more spectacular. In 1925 - two brothers, A.J. and Frank Hunting, saw the possibilities in dirt track racing, and engaged the paddock riders from Brisbane to appear at the Exhibition Grounds, on Saturday, 16 October, 1926. Brisbane. The five riders were Vic Huxley, Frank Authur, Frank Pearce, Dick Smythe and Charlie Spinks.

Speaking of the above, the following extract is taken from a letter written by A. J. Hunter, and published in "The Referee," 23 December 1937. His reminiscences of the early days of dirt track racing are interesting.

He states categorically that the first grass track speedway was at West Maitland, but the first genuine dirt track for speedway was laid down and constructed by him at Davies Park, Brisbane in 1927 -- this track brought out the rider’s ability and daring.

When the track in Brisbane was nearly completed Hunter advertised the opening of the meeting although he still didn't have any riders. All the well-known motor cycle riders were skeptical, not one appeared willing enough to give Hunter's dirt track riding idea a try. In despair, Hunter took his idea to the Brisbane Motor Cycling Club and asked for volunteer riders. A young man stepped forward called Frank Pearce, and told Hunter he was willing to give it a go. Charles Spinks, then a bricklayer, was the next to volunteer, and after him Vic Huxley. Nine other riders soon followed -- but then the supply of volunteers dried up. All the riders put in an appearance at the opening of the Exhibition Grounds Brisbane, on Saturday 16 October, 1926.

The visit of the American rider Cecil Brown, a fist class rider on any surface, raised the standard in Australia considerably. He arrived in Australia with a reputation as a great dirt track rider, but at Penrith he was repeatedly beaten by Gus Clifton and Billy Conoulty. However he soon mastered the tracks and developed into one of the best riders in Australia.

The public began to flock to Speedway meetings and new tracks began to spring up everywhere. A track opened at Cessnock, and a year later Newcastle followed suit. The first concrete track in New South Wales at Maroubra was opened on Saturday, 5 December, 1925. Much interest was taken in the Golden Helmet race with a prize of £30 and £10 per week until the winner was defeated at a subsequent meeting. Cecil Brown was crowned with the Golden Helmet and carried off the track shoulder high. He won the Golden Helmet for the fifth time at the Olympia Speedway track on Friday 2 April, 1926. His fastest lap was 93 m.p.h.

It could be argued that the very first speedway meeting took place in New Zealand on 22 October 1923, at the Canterbury Racecourse, Christchurch. The competition included the leading riders from all parts of New Zealand. The races were run on a grass track, and very fast times were recorded. The most successful rider was the well-known New Zealand champion Percy Coleman, who made excellent time in winning the all Powers Championship of 12 miles on his Harley Davidson.  On 9 March, 1929, dirt track racing was commenced at the Kibirnie Stadium, Wellington.

Many speedway historians have written about the history of the sport in England. Nine out of ten credit High Beech in Essex as the birth place of English Speedway. But there can be no getting away from the fact that the Moorside dirt track at Droylsden predates the High Beech track by eight months. Many youngsters in the North West got their first taste of dirt track racing at Droylsden, it also paved the way for other dirt tracks in the in the Manchester area like Audenshaw, Stalybridge, New Mills ,Salford Albion,  White City and Belle Vue. According to the Australian speedway promoter A.J.Hunting (Sydney Referee Dec 23 1937), he helped lay down the track at High Beech. Mr. Hill Bailey, then secretary of the Ilford Motor Cycle Club, introduced Hunting to Mr. W.S.Cearns who asked Hunting if he would lay down a proper track. The famous Australian Speedway promoter agreed and assisted with the construction of the track. Two other Australians, Keith McKay and Billy Galloway, helped to organize and participate in the High Beech meeting.

Droylsden, unlike High Beech, was an entirely local venture without any assistance from outside sources. The meeting was organized by the South Manchester Motor Club and local motor cycle dealer Fred Fearnley, on land owned by George Dodd, a farmer from nearby Ashton Moss. The event was given a license by the ACU for track racing, and the meeting went off as planned on 25 July 1927. There is absolutely no doubt that the Droylesden meeting was the pioneer of Dirt track racing in England. The ground where the event took place should be recognized by Tameside Council as a site of historical importance Blue Plaque commemorating the site as the birthplace of speedway racing in the UK. The plaque should be positioned as close to the original site of the track as possible. If you agree, please take the time to write to:-  Arts and Events, Tameside MBC, Dukinfield Town Hall, King Street, Dukinfield.                                                                                                                                                                             

 
 

 
 
6 Riders USA
 
Courtesy of John Spoor
 
 

 
 
1939 Book Cover
 
Courtesy of Lyndsey Skinner
 
 

 
 
1938 Test Match At Harringay
 
England & Australia
v
America & Canada
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
This meeting was dominated by the USA's Milne Brothers who both notched 6 ride 18 point maximums.  The England/ Australia side had no-one to trouble the Milnes or Wilbur Lamoreaux who notched 16 points
 
 

 
 
 
Letter From The BBC
 
Courtesy of Tom Roe
 
 
 

 
 
 
 
Tasmanian
Reginald Aldgate West
 
Courtesy of Colleen Thorne
 
Reg on his Rudge.  The Rudge Co had come up with a strong engine which could compete with the Douglas and Harley Davidson's Peashooter.  The Rudge frame however was inherently weak hence the strengthening struts on this one
The rider pictured above is Reg West. His daughter Colleen has been in touch as follows: -

Would someone be able to help us find out anything more on my father, Reginald Aldgate West. He was born in Tasmania but the family moved from there to Melbourne. He travelled all over Australia racing he was also known to have done some wrestling in his time.

I have a Photo of him having won a race on his motorbike wearing his winners sash.
He was my father-in-law. We know very little of his racing career.
He travelled over to the UK with the Australian team to race at the Isle of Man/Wight in the early 1930's. We believe he raced all over the UK.  He never went back to Australia. Seems he stopped racing at the start of the war. Could have been from serious injury?
Any info would be great. Thanks Colleen Thorne
John says: The bike is a Rudge so I would put the picture at around 1928/1931? Can anyone supply info on Colleen's father?
Bryan Tungate has been in touch. He has "found" a Reg West in a 1939 Norwich programme
3 June 1939 Norwich v Middlesbrough ...... 2nd half races show .....
Reserve Race - Alex Lewis, Bert Hutson, Sid Hipperson, Reg West, 81.0
Hellesdon Trophy Heat 4 - Reg West was replaced by Fred Belliveau the 'borough reserve in this race.

Stuart Towner says : -The picture of Reg West would be 1928, well the bike is. Rudge dropped the struts on the frame as they made the bike too stiff. Best wishes. Stuart Towner - Editor of the Rudge Enthusiasts Club magazine, the Radial.

John says: So let us accept that Reg was sitting on an early Rudge possibly 1928 although it is possible that Reg fitted the struts himself to a slightly later model.  Who knows!
Colin Jewes says: Probably is a 1928 Rudge:  Reg West rode at the Melbourne Exhibition track, Victoria in 1928, where he won the Golden Helmet there at least 3 times in Oct. & Nov. ‘28.
He also won the 2-Mile Australian Dirt Track championship  at Melbourne Exhibition, (possibly the same year, – unsure.) The above photo was used in a press report of the day on his 2-Mile win.
 
 

 
 
 
Ray "Broadside" Taylor
 
 
Robert Crich has sent me this lengthy document mapping the career of Australian Ray Taylor although I did chip in with some photos

Hello John, I  stumbled over your website. Just a small file indexing newpaper items regarding Ray Taylor’s speedway career 1930-1948 which are available on Trove newspaper archive on the web. Most items (Clippings) are outlined in the attached index file. This is only what I have and is in no way definitive or complete. Hope this might help.  Rob

 

Ray Taylor: Newspaper articles. Speedway year

1930

Month: January 1930

Date

Source News Article

track

Comments

27

Adelaide SA(Mon)

Royale

A Grade Handicap

Month: March 1930

Date

Source News Article

track

Comments

7

National Advocate
Bathurst(Fri)

Bathurst

Scratch Race


Month: April 1930

Date

Source News Article

track

Comments

21

Evening News Sydney(Mon)

Penrith. NSW

Riding a BT Special

22

Newcastle Times(Tue)

Penrith. NSW

Attempt Flying Speed Record on 350cc BT Special bike

26

Nepean Times(Sat)

Penrith. NSW

10 seconds behind world Record at 55. 2-5 seconds. (-world- 45. Sec on 490cc Harley Davidson)

  

Month: November 1930

Date

Source News Article

track

Comments

28

The Labour Daily Sydney(Fri)

Wentworth Park. NSW

Advax Gold Helmet
Handicap and Teams Race

 

 

Month: December 1930

Date

Source News Article

track

Comments

5

Evening News Sydney(Fri)

Speeway Royal

Advax Gold Helmet heats

5

Sydney Morning Herald(Fri)

Speedway Royal

Advax Gold Helmet heats

18

The Sun. Sydney(Thur)

Speedway Royal

Advax Gold Helmet
Handicap race

21

The Truth. Sydney(Sun)

 

Consolation Scratch race. Ray won  1st Place.

Ray Taylor: Newspaper articles. Speedway year
1931

Month: January 1931

Date

Source News Article

track

Comments/ Article

10

Evening News Sydney, NSW

Wentworth park

1st Heat. Advanx Gold Helmet

13

The Newcastle Sun

Newcastle Speedway

First appearance in Newcastle

14

The New Castle Sun

Newcastle Speedway

Upcoming Match Race

15

The New Castle Sun

Newcastle Speedway

Upcoming Match Race

16

The New Castle Sun

Newcastle Speedway

Appearance advert

23

The New Castle Sun

Newcastle Speedway

Appearance advert. For 1 Mile Championship

29

The Labor Daily Sydney

Wentworth Park

“Taylor gets his chance”  proved himself for the track championship next Saturday

 

Month: March 1931

Date

Source News Article

track

Comments/Atticles

4

The Labor Daily Sydney

 

Handicap Race

 

 

 

 


Month: April 1931

Date

Source News Article

track

Comments

5

Truth Sydney

Parramatta Speedway

Gold Star Scratch Race .Heat 1. Flying start over 3 laps. Heat 3. 1st place. Parramatta handicap. Semi Final . 1st place. Parramatta handicap Grand final. 1st place.

15

Referee Sydney

Parramatta

Grand Final Thrilling event


Month: May 1931

Date

Source News Article

track

Comments

22

Labor Daily

 

Looking around bike shops with Manager Norm Williams. Will be remembered for stunning performances at Parramatta speedway.


Date

Source News Article

track

Comments

20

The Sun

Paramatta Speedway

Heat 5. Riding an Indian. Time 2 seconds.

 

 

 

 


Month: October 1931

Date

Source News Article

track

Comments

6

The Daily Telegraph Sydney

Parramatta Speedway

Spills frequent. Needed ambulance attendance for abrasions to his knee. Lost Gold Star final.

7

Referee Sydney

Paramatta Speedway

Narrowly defeated in Parramatta Handicap over 4 laps.

24

 

Paramatta Speedway

Parramatta Team Vrs Sydney Team. Selected for Parramatta Team

25

Truth Sydney

Paramatta Speedway

Paramatta Handicap. 2nd heat 1st place. 3rdsemi final 1st place. A grade teams race 2nd place in dead heat with Les Roy.

26

The Labor Daily

Paramatta Speedway

Paramatta Handicap 2nd heat 2nd place.3rdsemi final 1st place.


Month: November 1931

Date

Source News Article

track

Comments

5

The Cumberland Argus and Fruit Growers Advocate. Parramatta

Parramatta Speedway

Race cancelled due to wet weather will be brought forward to next Saturday.

8

Truth Sydney

Parramatta Speedway

Third semi final for the Parramatta Handicap. 1st place.

16

The Cumberland Argus and Fruit Growers Advocate. Parramatta

Parramatta Speedway

As below(both newspapers reported same race and placings.

17

Newcastle Sun

Parramatta Speedway

Final Paramatta Handicap won by Len Roy with Ray in second place.

Flying scratch race. Heat 4. 1st place.

22

Truth Sydney

Parramatta Speedway

Big Twelve Scratch Race. 1st place

26

The Cumberland Argus and Fruit Growers Advocate. Parramatta

Parramatta Speedway

Big Twelve Scratch Race. 1st place


Month: December 1931

Date

Source News Article

track

Comments

15

Daily Telegraph Sydney

Wentworth Speedway

To race next Saturday for the Track Championship

16

Labor Daily

Wentworth Speedway

As above

18

The Sun Sydney

Wentworth Speedway

Flying nine scratch race

18

Daily Telegraph

Wentworth Speedway

Flying nine scratch race. Heat 3.

19

Daily Telegraph

Wentworth Speedway

Advert for the above race on Saturday night

20

Truth Sydney

Wentworth Speedway

Speedway season opened. Showed he was a real broardside artist 1 second outside the record Wentworth Handicap 3rd heat. 1st place.


Month: December 1931 continued

20

Truth Sydney

Wentworth Speedway

Covered 4 laps in 1 min 18 seconds. Just 3-5 of a second short of track record

21

Sydney Morning Herald

Wentworth Speedway

Crowd of 6000 applauded his handling of his bike when the back tyre came off to win as above

24

The Sun Sydney

Wentworth Speedway

Advertisement. 3 heat match next Saturday

26

The Daily Telegraph Sydney

Wentworth Speedway

Advertisement. 3 heat match next tonight.

27

Sun Sydney

Wentworth Speedway

Flying nine scratch race final. 1st place. Broke Van Praag’s record by 4-5 seconds.

28

National Advocate Bathurst

Wentworth Speedway

As above. His time in 3 laps in 55. 4-5 seconds. Has challenged Van Praag for the Track Championship next Saturday Proved himself the greatest find on the dirt track this season.

29

Labor Daily Sydney

Wentworth Speedway

Clipped 1 3-5 of a second from a rolling start

30

The Sun Sydney

Wentworth Speedway

Proved himself and a new track star. Will compete for the best 3 heats of 2 laps from a standing start.

31

Brisbane Courier Qld

Wentworth Speedway

As above. Proved a star with 17 second average per lap and thought to have broken other records-not stated.

31

Sydney Morning Herald-Sydney

Wentworth Speedway

Australian Motor Cyclists Union impressed with his performance.To contest the scratch mark and compete against Van Praag in Championship Trophy.


1931 to 1935, Paris, France.
An Anglo-French promotion syndicate ran an annual Dirt Track “ Championnat du Monde” (World Championship,) for five years at the Buffalo Velodrome, Paris between 1931 and '35. The format usually comprised 9 riders drawn from Europe and the UK scene, (3 per race,) across 13 heats, Semi's and Finals.

  Ray, now known as Ray “Broadside” Taylor was  22 years of age and although a relative beginner starting his official racing career only over the past year, he was lauded for his performance at Wentworth Park Speedway during the season of 1931 and considered a new find and a crowd pleasing rising Star of the dirt track.

Ray’s riding standard, wins and broadside skill was such that he had narrowly defeated the distinguished Len Roy and was given the opportunity to compete against Australian Champion Lionel Van Praag who recently returned from successfully competing in England.

Ray Taylor: Newspaper articles. Speedway year

1932

Month: January 1932

Date

Source News Article

track

Comments/ Article

2

Daily Telegraph Sydney

Wentworth Park Speedway

Advertisement. Lionel Van Praagvrs Ray Taylor. Half mile Championship. Tonight

3

Truth Sydney

Wentworth Park Speedway

Half mile match championship. Van Praag 1st Ray Taylor 2nd place

Rider Norman Thompson crashed in front of Van Praag in pervious race and Lionel was shaken.

4

Daily Telegraph Sydney

Wentworth Park Speedway

Ray beaten in 2 straight heats as above by Van Praag

4

Newcastle Morning Herald and the Miners Advocate

Wentworth Park Speedway

As above four riders came down although none injured in race.

5

 

Parramatta Speedway

Ray vrs Bios Blumfield tomorrow. Last Wednesday Ray beat Jack Hollis in 2 straight heats.

8

The Daily Telegraph

Wentworth Park Speedway

Allowances framed for the Wentworth Park Handicap.

9

Daily Telegraph Sydney

Wentworth Park Speedway

Advertisement for thrilling team tests tonight.


Month: January 1932

Date

Source News Article

track

Comments/ Article

9

Unknown to date.

Wentworth Park Speedway

10

Truth Sydney

Wentworth Park Speedway

Ray placed 2nd to Wilson in 3rd Test heat.

16

The Sun Sydney

Wentworth Park Speedway

Big 9 scratch race Ray to meet Cyclone Mookey and Dick Sulway.

16

Labor Daily

Wentworth Park Speedway

As above. Ray wins Flying nine scratch race

19

Labor Daily

Wentworth Park Speedway

21

Cumberland Argus and Fruit Growers Advocate

Parramatta Speedway

Ray Taylor Excels. Won heat and semi final.

23

The Sun Sydney

Wentworth Park Speedway

Ray challenged Van Praag in a Match race for the half mile championship.

Month: January continued 1932

Date

Source News Article

track

Comments/ Article

23

The Daily Telegraph Sydney

Wentworth Park Speedway

As above. Ray challenged Van Praag in a Match race for the half mile championship.

24

The Sun Sydney

Sydney Royale

Ray challenged Van Praag and lost against Van Praag in straight heats last night

24

The Sun Sydney

Wentworth Park Speedway

Van Praag retained his title against Ray who lost.

26

The Advertiser Adelaide SA

Sydney Royale

Ray to race in an interstate teams match

27

Referee Sydney

Paramatta Speedway

27

Referee Sydney

Paramatta Speedway

Taylor Shines. 5 wins from 5 starts

28

News Adelaide

Speedway Royale

Advertisement. Gala night. Ray Broadside Taylor, Paddy Dean, Jack Hollis

28

News Adelaide

Speedway Royale

NSW Riders to compete. Ray Taylor will compete against Arnold Hansen.

28

Cumberland Argus and Fruit Growers Assoc

Paramatta Speedway

Taylor victorious. Won 2 straight heats.

28

Cumberland Argus and Fruit Growers Assoc

Paramatta Speedway

Taylor excels.

29

News Adelaide

Speedway Royale

NSW Riders to compete against South Australians. Ray Taylor holder of the NSW Wentworth Park Track Record will compete against Arnold Hansen

30

 

Speedway Royale

Advertisement

 

 

 

 


Month: February 1932

Date

Source News Article

track

Comments/Articles

1

Adelaide Advertiser (Thurs)

Speedway Royale Adelaide

Ray lost to Jack Chapman on Saturday.

4

Unknown (pending)

As above

Another big leap. Ray made 1st appearance at Adelaide Speedway on Saturday deemed as one of the most spectacular riders seen in this state for some time. Will appear with Jack Hollis and Paddy Dean.

6

The Age Melbourne

Exhibition Speedway Melbourne

Ray to make his debut.

6

News Adelaide

Speedway Royale

Ray struck the back of Dick Wise in the 1st lap of the 3rd heat and fell.

10

Referee Sydney

Speedway Royale

Ray disqualified by Stewards for interference with Wise.

13

Mail Adelaide

Speedway Royale

Australian Championship over 1-mile Rays bike conked out. Interstate handicap over 3 laps from a flying start and won by 40 yards. 1st place in the 1st heat. Special Match Race 1st  Place.

15

Advertiser Adelaide

Speedway Royale

Ray and Paddy Dean run a close race as Ray gained the inside and finished first by only a few yards.

16

Labor Daily Sydney (Tues)

Wentworth Park Speedway

Half mile challenge won by Van Praag. He has beaten Ray twice.

17

Referee Sydney

Wentworth Park Speedway

Ray fell foul of the Stewards in Adelaide. No finer Rider at Wentworth track and is a treat to see him mowing the markers on the straight. However, he seems a little on the reckless side.

24

Sporting Globe Melbourne (Wed)

Speedway Royale

In special Matches on Saturday night, Ray won the Consolation Scratch Race from Fearson and Ras Lee. Lost International Handicap Final to Applebee. Also running were Con Bartelanier and Max Grosskreutz.

25

The Age Melbourne

Exhibition Speedway Melbourne

Ray to make his debut in Victoria. There will be Scratch Races between nine selected riders.

26

The Herald Melbourne (Fri)

Exhibition Speedway Melbourne

NSW and Victorian teams to meet. Ray, world record breaker over three laps on the quarter mile flat track is to be opposed by Lionel Davy Victoria’s international rider and holder of the 4 lap Exhibition record.

26

The Herald Melbourne (Fri)

Exhibition Speedway Melbourne

Victorian half mile championship held over 3 heats on Saturday.

Month: February continued1932

Date

Source News Article

track

Comments/Articles

27

The Herald Melbourne (Fri)

Exhibition Speedway Melbourne

Ray Taylor the NSW dirt track champion will meet Lionel Davey in a special match race. Ray holds the world title for quarter mile flat track. Will leave for England next month

27

The Age Melbourne

Exhibition Speedway Melbourne

Advertisement. Half Mile Match Championship. Big Mile scratch race. Dare Devil Curtis enveloped in flames will leap from his 110ft ladder.

29

The Argus Melbourne.

Exhibition Speedway Melbourne

Davey-Victoria defeats Taylor New South Wales. Over three heats and Ray fell in the last lap of each heat. Reason being that he had never had an opportunity to practice on the dirt track prior to the race

 

 

 

 


Month: March 1932

Date

Source News Article

track

Comments/Articles

2

Sporting Globe Melbourne (Wed)

Exhibition Speedway Melbourne

Davey Supreme. Ray had bad luck to fall near the finish of each heat.

5

Sporting Globe Melbourne (Wed)

Exhibition Speedway Melbourne

Ray and Paddy Dean will represent NSW in team matches.

5

The Herald Melbourne

Exhibition Speedway Melbourne

As above

9

Sporting Globe Melbourne

Exhibition Speedway Melbourne

NSW teams to meet Vic teams-as above tomorrow night

12

Border Watch SA

(Sat)

Notice item

Ray going to England shortly. Photo.

16

Kalgoorlie Miner

Western Australia (Wed)

Notice item

As above

 19

The Daily News (Sat)

Notice item

As above

22

Western Argus (Tues)

Notice item

As above

 

Month: March continued 1932

Date

Source News Article

track

Comments/Articles

23

Referee Sydney (Wed)

Exhibition Speedway Melbourne

Max Graham brought down from NSW but experienced same as Ray engine troubles and borrowed mounts.

 

 

 

 



Month: April 1932

Date

Source News Article

track

Comments

2

News Adelaide (Sat)

On route to England

Going to compete at the Wembley Speedway in England, Ray Taylor, dirt track rider, who took part in the recent Australian Championship meeting in Adelaide, is a passenger on the Morton Bay from Sydney. The boat will leave outlet harbour on Monday.

4

News Adelaide (Mon)

On route to England

Speedway Men avoid customs duties. Ray and Ernie Fox and mechanic Martin Barry are on their way to Wembley. With small prize money in Australia customs duties on bikes is too expensive. Motor cycles are to be purchased in England. They will not have to pay landing duties when returning home.

The men will leave late tonight.

4

The Canberra Times (Mon)

Queanbeyan Club Carnival

Ray entered to ride. (Possibly prior to travel arrangements??)

14

The Cumberland Argus and Fruit Growers Advocate. Thurs)

Parramatta Speedway

Philip and Mervyn Atkins of Windsor Road Northmead impersonating Ray Taylor and Frank Weldrick of Parramatta speedway fame, awaiting the starters signal at the charity’s carnival, they won first and second prizes for the” best advertising costumes” section

27

English record

Owlerton, Sheffield

The rider in these events is named “Goeff” Taylor. And it is suspected by the writer that it might be a mistake for “Ray” who apparently had just arrived in England. In any case it is decided to include the event with very reasonable confidence.

 

 

 

 

Australian Cigarette Card 

 

Month: May1932

Date

Source News Article

track

Comments

 

 

 

 

11

England record

Owlerton, Sheffield

Owlerton Scratch race. Geoff (Ray) 2nd in heat 1.

 

 

 

 

12

Records

Plymouth

Ray rode for “Overseas” against English “Homeland” team ran 2nd in 4th heat.


18

NSA National League records

Owlerton, Sheffield

Ray rode for South Hampton in the National League Trophy. Heat 7. 2nd place and one fall.

Sheffield won 34to19 points. Ray rode on same day Speedway Trophy heat 1.  4th place.

 

 

 

 

21

Recorded item

Reference-attached documents

Possibly Owlerton, Sheffield

Saturday 21 May 1932.  Bellevue 34 defeated South Hampton 12. (National League NSA Trophy) Ray (South Hampton) fell in heat 4.

 

 

 

 


Month: June1932

Date

Source News Article

track

Comments

1

Recorded item-National League Trophy

(The Saints / Lea Bridge team)

Clapton, London

Wednesday 1 st June 1932 Clapton, London.

 The Saints 22 Stamford Bridge 31 (National League NSA Trophy)

4th places in heats 3 and 7. Ray (Rode as The Saints for Lea Bridge) fell in the 7th heat. Note:

In contrast the opening league match at Lea Bridge attracted 12,000. This marked the revival of Gus Kuhn 3 2 2 7 the track after a period of closure because of allowing betting. The name of the team had not been Arthur Warwick 3 2 1 6 decided at this stage so they rode as "The Saints" and kept the Southampton light blue colours

 

 

 

 

9

Recorded item-National League Trophy

Brandon, Coventry

Thursday 9th June 1932 Brandon, Coventry

Coventry 23 Lea Bridge 29 (National League NSA Trophy)

Ray in 4th place after a fall.

 

 

 

 



Month: June continued1932

Date

Source News Article

track

Comments

 

 

 

 

22

England record

Clapton, London

Wednesday. Reserves scratch race. Ray 2nd in heat 2.

 

 

 

 

26

National league record

Plymouth

Tuesday. Ray rode for Plymouth. 3rd in heat 3. 4th in heat 5 (Fall) 4th in heat 7. Chain broke.

 

 

 

 

27

National league record

Clapton, London

Monday. Ray rode for Clapton. Ray rode for Clapton. National League. Clapton was defeated by Wimbledon 33-19. Ray 4th in heat 6. 3rd in heat 8.

 

 

 

 

29

Recorded item-

National Trophy England

London, Clapton

Wednesday 29th June 1932 Clapton, London

Clapton 22 was defeated by Crystal Palace Glaziers 32 (National League) Ray 2nd place in the reserves scratch race final.

 

 

 

 

Month:  July 1932

Date

Source News Article

track

Comments

 

 

 

 

12

Recorded

Plymouth

Homeland vrs Overseas.

Ray placed 2rd in heat 4 and 2nd in heat 13.

 

 

 

 

23

Labor Daily

Item only


Month:  July continued 1932

Date

Source News Article

track

Comments

 

 

 

 

26

Recorded National League

Plymouth

Tuesday 26 July. (National League) Plymouth vrs Wembley

Ray (Plymouth) 3rd in heat 3, 4th in heat 5 and fell, 4th in heat 7 with a broken chain.  The track could have been better prepared and did not lend itself to good racing.

 

 

 

 




Month: August 1932

Date

Source News Article

track

Comments

 

 

 

 

4

Recorded

National League

Pennycross, Plymouth

Thursday 4th August 1932 Pennycross, Plymouth

Plymouth 32 defeated West Ham 18 (National League) Ray (Plymouth) 4th place in heat 1 and 3rd in heat 6.

 

 

 

 

9

Recorded National League

Pennycross, Plymouth

Tuesday 9th August 1932. Plymouth 31 defeated Coventry) 22 (National League)

Ray 4th in heat 1 and 4th in heat 6. Heat 6 - Tims and Ray fell independently near the end of the race. They both pushed home vying with each other for the final point. Arthur Tims won the pushing race!

 

 

 

 

11

Recorded National League

Pennycross, Plymouth

Thursday. Wembley defeated Plymouth 27-24. Ray rode for Plymouth. 3rd in heat 1. 3rd in heat 4.

 

 

 

 

15

The Cumberland and Fruit Growers Advocate

Article item only

IN ENGLAND-extract

Young Ray Taylor the dirt track rider who rode at the Parramatta Speedway last season, has been putting up some wonderful performances in England, defeating the British Champion, Jack Parker a few weeks ago and breaking some records over there. Ray is a favorite with speedway fans for his daring racing and good sportsmanship when racing. In a recent letter he would like to be remembered to all his speedway supporters, and that he intends bringing some “hot” motors home when he returns from overseas”.

 

 

 

 

16

Recorded National League

Pennycross, Plymouth

Tuesday 16th August 1932 Pennycross, Plymouth

 Plymouth 33defeated Clapton 20 (National League)

Ray 1st place in heat 8.

 

 

 

 

18

Recorded National League

Pennycross, Plymouth

Thursday 18th August. (National League) Coventry 34 defeated Plymouth 18. Ray (Plymouth) 3rd in heat 4 and 3rd in heat 7.

 

 

 

 

20

Recorded National League

Pennycross, Plymouth

Saturday 20 August 1932. Bellevue vrs Plymouth. (National League) Bellevue 35 defeated Plymouth 15.

Ray (Plymouth) excluded from heat 4 for false start and 3rd place in heat 5

 

 

 

 


Month: August continued 1932

Date

Source News Article

track

Comments

29

Recorded National League

Pennycross, Plymouth

Monday 29 August 1932. Wimbledon 33.5 defeated Plymouth 22.5. (National League)

Ray(Plymouth) 4th place heat 1. Eric Collins was a real star for Plymouth at this time and was at the top of his form. He beat Dick 4 Jack Jackson 0 0 1 1 Case on his own track in heat 2. His battle with Vic Huxley in heat 8 was brilliant speedway 5 Bert Spencer E 2 2 4 and Eric only lost out on the last lap after leading all the way

 

 

 

 

Month: September 1932

Date

Source News Article

track

Comments

 

 

 

 

1

Recorded

Challenge Match

Pennycross, Plymouth

Thursday 1st September 1932 Pennycross, Plymouth

Plymouth 21 West were defeated by West Ham Hammers 32 (Challenge) Ray (Plymouth) 1st in Heat 1, 4th in heat 4 and 3rd in heat 7.

 

 

 

 

2

Arrow Sydney

Item. Great Season Promised.

Australians played a big part in the English season. Frank Auther, Vic Huxley, Max Groskrents. Billy Lemont who has been away for some years. Another success was Ray Taylor who rose from obscurity last year and finished by being one of the finest drawcards in the game.

 

 

 

 

3

Labor Daily Sydney (additional enlarged copies attached)

Plymouth Speedway and Lea Bridge

Due to leave England in early October to compete for the Ashes against England. He has done extremely well. Annexed Gold helmet at Plymouth defeating Frank Varey in the final and Eric Langdon, the English test team Captain.  Beat Jack Parker, the British Champion. Reported to be bringing home one of the fastest machines in England. This together with one of the latest racing outfits.

 

 

 

 

Date

Source News Article

track

Comments

 

 

 

 

13

Recorded National League

Pennycross, Plymouth

Tuesday 13 September 1932. Plymouth 19 was defeated by Crystal Palace 32. (National League) Ray (Plymouth) 3rd in heat 9.Eric Collins was right off form suffering from tonsilitis. A big blow for Plymouth. This meeting was rained off from the previous Tuesday.

 

 

 

 

14

Recorded National League

Pennycross, Plymouth

Wednesday 14th September 1932 Clapton, London Clapton 36 defeated Plymouth 18 (National League)

Ray (Plymouth) 3rd in heat 3, 3rd in heat 6 and 2nd in heat 9.

 

 

 

 

20

Recorded National League

Pennycross, Plymouth

Tuesday 20th September 1932. Plymouth 22 lost to 32 Wimbledon. (National League)

Ray (Plymouth) in 4th place in heat 3 after fall. 4th in heat 5 Lamont and Jackson also fell. Lamont, Jackson and Ray were in a 3 way pile up in heat 3. Bill injured his chin. Ray was back on and tried for second but Dick Case lapped him.

 

 

 

 

27

Recorded National League

Pennycross, Plymouth

Tuesday 27 September 1932. Plymouth 30 defeated Stamford Bridge 22. (National League)

 Ray scored 1 point and no place.

 

 

 

 


Month: *October 1932

Date

Source News Article

track

Comments

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

*Records for this English season month are unknown. Ongoing 

 

Month: November 1932

Date

Source News Article

track

Comments

4

Arrow Sydney

Item only

Ray on way back to Australia. Had a good year but did not get into the Australian Test Team.

He is bringing back a JAP Machine and several fast motors.

He became a flying enthusiast while away and has a pilot’s ticket.

 

 

 

 

5

Labor Daily

Item only

As above. Bringing back a motor used in his winning the gold and silver gauntlets in England. Ray has been taking flying lessons while down in Plymouth and hope to continue flying at Mascot. He was asked to sign up for a new speedway just opened in America but turned it down due to commitments in Australia.

 

 

 

 

8

The Daily Telegraph (Thurs)

Photo Only

Ray pictured on bike

 

 

 

 

12

West Australian (Sat)

Item only

Ray arrived in Perth yesterday on the Lars Bay from London. Details of English team races on attached sheet.

 

 

 

 

12

Labor Daily

Item only

Ray had seven weeks consecutive riding at Wentworth speedway this season his most impressive performances however were at the Paramatta track.

 

 

 

 

18

Arrow Sydney (Fri)

Item only

Ray had a successful season in England winning the Golden helmet and Silver Gauntlet. 22 riders competed in the English Championship in which Ray finished 3rd.He is bringing back the latest JAP machine.

 

 

 

 


Month: November continued1932

Date

Source News Article

track

Comments

18

As above

As above

Ray returned on 11 November of that year on the ship Balranald. Also on board were dirt track riders, Bert Spencer, Maurice Bradshaw, S.W. Lipton, Eric Collins, Charlie Spinks and S.C. Stratton. Ray showed wonderful improvement since he went abroad and played no small part in the Test matches in which he was a member of the Australian team.

 

19

The Labor Daily Sydney (Sat)

Item only

Ray arrives home next Monday. He is bringing something very “Hot” in the way of a motor.

21

Age Melbourne (Mon)

Exhibition Speedway

Much interest was taken in the “Mystery Rider”

22

The Daily Telegraph (Sydney Tue)

Wentworth Park

Ray who returned from England this week will compete for the first time this season.

23

Sporting Globe (Melbourne Wed)

Exhibition Speedway

Ray to made his debut in the presence of several thousand onlookers. He was announced as the “Mystery Rider” Defeated by Ernie Evans in two straight heats who gave a good display. Ray had engine trouble in both heats.

24

The Advertiser Adelaide (Thurs)

Item only

Ray and Jack holis will feature at the speedway on Saturday night

25

The Sun (Sydney Fri)

Wentworth Park

Taylor vrs Hollis

26

The Daily Telegraph (Sydney Sat)

Wentworth Park

Advertisement. Ray vrs Jack Hollis tonight. Ray just returned from England where he defeated Eric Langdon winner of the British individual championship in straight heats at Pyymouth.Ray also won the Golden Helmet and Silver Gauntlet on the same track.


Month: November continued 1932

Date

Source News Article

track

Comments

26

The Sydney Morning Herald

Wentworth Park

Rays first appearance when he meets Hollis.

27

The Sun Sydney

Wentworth Park

Large attendance and good riding in the international event

28

The Labor Daily

Wentworth Park

Ray defeated by Jack Hollis in straight heats.

28

National Advocate (Bathurst Mon)

Wentworth Park

As above. Jack Hollis defeated Ray by half a wheel. (1 metre ?)

 

 

 

 


Month: December 1932

Date

Source News Article

track

Comments

2

Arrow Sydney (Fri)

Remarks only as written in article “Cinders from the dirt track”

Rays remarks to the Lads.”  InEngland the JAPs are the only things on the Tracks. I took a fast motor of a different make to Plymouth and the boys came across and enquired kindly where I thought I would get the speed from. Dirt Track racing in England is an absolute business. Every day riders who are permanently attached to a track go through a physical culture drill for an hour or two, and then put in some solid practice on the course. England is no place for an ordinary class rider. Stars can make good money, but there are so many of the average quality men in England that outsiders cannot make a crust”. Quite an unassuming chap Taylor, and he thinks that local Lads have a good chance with the Champions coming along with Jack Hoskins. We sincerely hope your right, Ray.


Month: December continued 1932

Date

Source News Article

track

Comments

2

Arrow Sydney (Fri)

As above

Rays defeat by Jack Hollis was partly due to engine trouble. Dave Brewster his mechanic said his motor was not performing up to JAP standards. Gone is the wild man who didn’t care about fences or crashes a year or two years ago. Who also answered to the name Taylor in his place is a heady rider who, on a speedy track should be well worth seeing?

7

The Daily Telegraph Sydney (Wed)

Wentworth Park

Ray will be seen in action in the Gold Helmet scratch race which includes all local stars.

9

Arrow Sydney (Fri)

Wentworth Park

Possible team match Royale and Wentworth being arranged. Ray is a member of the Wentworth quartet team

9

The Daily Telegraph (Sydney Fri)

Wentworth Park

Ray to compete in the Golden Helmet scratch race on Saturday offering the biggest prize money.

Match race between Bobbie Blake the unbeaten match Champion of the season and Ray.

10

The Sydney Morning Herald (Sat)

Wentworth Park

As above.

10

The Daily Telegraph

Wentworth Park

As above

11

Truth (Sydney)

Wentworth Park

Ray mentioned previously beating Bobbie Blake in the gold star match race

12

The Sydney Morning Herald (Mon)

Wentworth Park

Bobbie Blake won from Ray in the first heat but Ray beat him in the second and third heats

15

The Daily Telegraph (Thurs)

Royale

Mention of Blakes defeat of Ray. (but no mention of Ray’s wins)

20

The Sun (Sydney Thurs)

Wentworth Park

Wentworth and Royale teams match should provide some excitement on Saturday.


Month: December continued 1932

Date

Source News Article

track

Comments

21

The Daily Telegraph (Wed)

Wentworth Park

Artie Fenn who won the Gold Helmet will oppose Ray. Fenn is riding at the top of his form and Ray is reproducing his best.

22

The Daily Telegraph (Thurs)

Wentworth Park

Ray to race as part of the “Flying Twelve”

23

The Sun (Sydney Fri)

Wentworth Park

As Above

24

The Sydney Morning Herald (Sat)

Wentworth Park

Improved arrangement at the Track. Ray and Arnie Fenn to match race.

24

The Daily Telegraph (Sat)

Wentworth Park

As above tonight

27

The Sydney Morning Herald

Wentworth Park

The gold star match was won by Ray. His opponent Arnie Fenn fell in the final heat.

28

National Advocate (Bathurst Wed)

Wentworth Park

Arnie Fenn beat Ray in the match race and Ray challenged for a rerun but Fenn beat him again in the final heat.

29

The Sun (Sydney Thurs)

Wentworth Park

Good line up of Riders. Considered one of the best on Saturday

31

The Daily Telegraph (Sat)

Wentworth Park

Benefit Carnival for the family of Bert Brenman popular rider of the Wentworth Team. Flying Fifteen to contest as well as country and International riders. Ray to ride.

Ray left for England boarding the ship, Morton Bay during the evening of the 4th April 1932 just ten days before his 23rd birthday and returned on 11 November of that year on the ship Balranald. Also on board were dirt track riders, Bert Spencer, Maurice Bradshaw, S.W. Lipton, Eric Collins, Charlie Spinks and S.C. Stratton.

National League Averages 1932

Rider Team M Mx Pa Ra Pts Bon Ave
Ray Taylor Plymouth 12     24 14 2 2.67
Ray Taylor Southampton Saints 3     8 2 0 1.00
Ray Taylor Lea Bridge 5     11 2 0 0.73

The above table is copied from the internet although sources from 1932 records the dates were not listed and other details defined.

Rays Bike "Daisy"

 

Ray Taylor: Newspaper articles. Speedway year

1933

Month: January 1933

Date

Source News Article

track

Comments/ Article

1

The Sun (Sydney Sun)

Wentworth Park

Gold Helmet scratch race. 3 Laps . Heat 1. Ray 1st. Second semi final Ray 2nd place.

2

The Sydney Morning Herald(Mon)

Wentworth Park

As Above. Ray riding 495cc Rudge Withworth.

4

Referee (Sydney Wed)

Wentworth Park

As above. Ray showed plenty of dash and gave the winner Blake a great ride.

5

The Labor Daily (Thurs)

Wentworth Park

International Match Race Ray mentioned.

6

The Daily Telegraph (Fri)

Wentworth Park

Ray riding in scratch race.

7

The Sydney Morning Herald

Wentworth Park

Preliminary to selection of Australian Test Team to meet England decided tonight. Ray to ride. Additional match race will include Ray.

8

The Sun (Sydney Sun)

Wentworth Park

Ray beaten in Gold Star race.

9

Sydney Morning Herald (Mon)

Wentworth Park

As above. Ray 2nd place to Jack Hollis

12

The Daily Telegraph (Thurs)

Wentworth Park

Ray will be a starter for the Gold Helmet on Saturday night.

14

The Lobor Daily (Sat)

Wentworth Park

As above.

15

Truth Sydney

Wentworth Park

As above. Ray in 2nd place in the Wentworth Handicap run 4 laps in final heat.

16

The Sydney Morning Herald(Mon)

Wentworth Park

As above.

20

Arrow (Sydney Fri)

Wentworth Park

Ray having a bad spin. His motor is not performing up to the standard he presented on his return from England. His riding is up to standard but the “horses” are not there. He fell on Saturday but lucky not hurt.

21

The Sydney Morning Herald (Sat)

Sydney Royale

England team vrs NSW. Ray reserve and will contest the scratch race.

25

Referee Sydney(Wed)

Item only

Ray visited boxers Carnera and O’Malley

26

The Brisbane Courier(Thurs)

Sydney Royale

As on 21st.

Month: January continued 1933

Date

Source News Article

track

Comments/ Article

27

Arrow Sydney(Fri0

Sydney Royale

As 21st.

 

 

 

 


Month: February 1933

Date

Source News Article

track

Comments/Atticles

 

Arrow Sydney (Fri)

Sydney Royale

London to meet NSW Team but Ray not included.

9

New Castle Sun (Thurs)

Sydney Royale

England vrs Australia. Ray 2nd place in heat 16.

10

Arrow Sydney

Sydney Royale

Ray not mentioned

 

Truth Sydney (Sun)

Sydney Royale

4th Test England and Australia. Bobbie Blake seriously suffering head injuries. International scratch race Ray only rider to finish. Final heat Ray won 1st place.

13

Sydney Morning Herald (Mon)

Sydney Royale

As above more detail.

15

The Sun Sydney (Wed)

Sydney Royale

World Championship.EnglandVrs Australia.

Ray team member alongside Van Praag, Wilkinson, Frank Arther, Bill Lamont, Max Grosskreutz and Dick Smythe.

19

Truth Sydney(Sun)

Sydney Royale

Ray had a lucky escape in the 12th heat. He fell opposite the grand stand and his machine was in front of him. He was not hurt,

24

 

Northern Star Lismore NSW(Fri)

Local item

Ray referenced only


Month: March 1933

Date

Source News Article

track

Comments

5

Truth Sydney (Sun)

Sydney Royale

Jack Hollis unconscious after crash. World Speedway Championship. NSW Vrs The Rest Heat 1. Ray in NSW Team 1st place. Heat 1 (second heats) 3rd place. Final score. 38-21 NSW Team defeated

6

Sydney Morning Herald (Mon)

Sydney Royale

Hard to read but detailed account of Saturdays NSW Vrs The Rest and Rays point score.



Month: March 1933 continued

Date

Source News Article

track

Comments

7

National Advocate Bathurst (Tue)

Not sure

Bathurst?

Ray mentioned for previous nights point score and will be riding tonight.

8

National Advocate Bathurst (Wed)

Bathurst?

Ray Champions Scratch Race. Ray second to Bluey Wilsenson in 1st heat.

8

Labor Daily Sydney(Wed)

Sydney Royale

Ray reserve foe the Australian Team vrs England.

10

Arrow Sydney(Fri)

Sydney Royale

The Rest beat NSW Team. 29 to 23. Ray ticked up 4 points for NSW.

11

The Sydney Morning Herald(Sat)

Sydney Royale

Fifth and final test between England and Australia tonight. Also a 3 corner international race Ray Australia, D Lloyd England and Ray Tauser USA.

12

The Sun Sydney (Sun)

Sydney Royale

England defeated Australia in the final test. 52 to 43. Ray 2nd place in the International match race Heat 1. Ray 1st place in heat2. Ray International Match Race Champion.

13

Labor Daily Sydney. (Mon)

Sydney Royale

As above. Ray showed better form than when called for reserve for the above test. Winning as above.

15

Sporting GlobeMelbourne (Wed)

Sydney Royale

As above. Ray stood in for Van Pragg and finished a fine 2nd to Wally Little in the fifth Australia/England Test match heat.

16

Labor Daily Sydney(Thurs)

Wentworth Park

No mention of Ray

17

The Daily Telegraph Sydney

Wentworth Park

Ray in Conten…… Scratch Race tomorrow night.

19

The Sun Sydney (Sun)

Wentworth Park

Ray 1stplace Heat 5. Wentworth Handicap and 2nd place in the Ares Handicap. Heat 2 with Van Praag win.

22

The Sun Sydney (Wed)

Wentworth Park

Principal event a 3 corned match race with Ken Kirkman, Artie Fenn and Ray.

22

Sporting Globe Melbourne (Wed)

Wentworth Park

As above Acres Scratch Race -Ray beaten by Wally Little by a wheel.

24

The Daily Telegraph Sydney(Fri)

Wentworth Park

Match racing will feature tomorrow night. Wally Little to match Ray Again. Winners to meet following Saturday.

24

The Sun Sydney(Fri)

Wentworth Park

Advertisement. Ray vrs Wally Little

25

The Sun Sydney(Sat)

Wentworth Park

As above.

 

 

 

 



 Month: March continued 1933

Date

Source News Article

track

Comments

26

The Sun Sydney(Mon)

Wentworth Park

Wentworth Handicap. Heat 1.Little beat Ray for second place. Semi Final Heat 2 A Fenn beat Ray for second place. Final Ray scored 1st place. Ray was overall winner. Ray also won the Match race against Wally Little.

 

27

Labor Daily Sydney(Mon)

Wentworth Park

As above. Ray and Wally Little showed great performance. Little had fastest time overall and had mechanical trouble.

 

 

 

 


Month: April 1933

Date

Source News Article

track

Comments

22

The Labor Daily Sydney(Sat)

Item Only

Ray manufacturing Jackets

 

 

 

 



Month: July 1933

Date

Source News Article

track

Comments

1

The Labor Daily Sydney (Sat)

Item

Ray featured in “Great Riders”

15

The Labor Daily Sydney (Sat)

Item

Ray featured in “Great Riders”

15

The Labor Daily Sydney (Sat)

Item

Ray featured in “Great Riders”

29

The Labor Daily Sydney (Sat)

Item

Rays outstand Tuning Mechanic-Jonny Horwood married(Brother of Daisy?)

 

 

 

 


Month: August  1933

Date

Source News Article

track

Comments

29

Daily Standard Brisbane

Brisbane Exhibition

Ray, Wally Little and Dick Sulway all signed to ride at Exhibition Track in Brisbane when ready.

 

 

 

 

   
Ray Taylor
   

Month: September  1933

Date

Source News Article

track

Comments

2

Daily Standard Brisbane (Sat)

Exhibition Speedway(QLD)

Racing carnival will be conducted on Oct 14. Will be the finest speed riders in the commonwealth. 3/and a half hours each evening. Ray not mentioned but will race -interesting reading.

12

The Courier Mail(Brisbane(Tue)

Exhibition Speedway(QLD)

Riders engaged. Ray to race.

13

Daily Standard Brisbane(Wed)

Exhibition Speedway(QLD)

Star riders engaged. Ray included.

14

The Telegraph Brisbane (Thurs)

Exhibition Speedway(QLD)

Highly successful season is promised. Ray will race.

17

Truth Brisbane(Sun0

Exhibition Speedway(QLD)

Arrival of motors already for reopening. Training will begin 1st October.

20

(Unknown)

Exhibition Speedway(QLD)

Ray mentioned among other outstanding riders. His training of recruits and clothing manufacturing.

20

Daily Standard Brisbane(Wed)

Exhibition Speedway(QLD)

As above.

21

Referee Sydney(Thurs)

Exhibition Speedway(QLD)

Suggested England vrs Australia tests and Qld hoping for two matches.

28

The Courier Mail Brisbane(Thurs)

Exhibition Speedway(QLD)

To open 14 October. Main race will be the Golden Helmet.

30

Daily Standard Brisbane(Sat)

Exhibition Speedway(QLD)

Only 2 weeks away. Speedway opening. Ray matched with Pearce. Model plane exhipition.



Month: October 1933

Date

Source News Article

track

Comments

4

Daily Standard Brisbane (Wed)

Exhibition Speedway

Riders interchanged between venues for Grand Opening. Ray to race Frank Pearce in Match race at Grand opening. Golden Helmet match race to be held.


Month: October 1933

Date

Source News Article

track

Comments

5

Courier Mail Brisbane (Thur)

Exhibition Speedway

Several southern riders have arrived. Program to comprise of Golden Helmet scratch race, First class riders handicap, special “B” grade scratch race, Model planes contest,  two match races on attempt for Lap record

6

Telegraph Brisbane (Fri)

Exhibition Speedway

Opening riders are of “High” reputation.

6

As above

Exhibition Speedway

Advertisement for opening on 14th October.

10

Daily Standard Brisbane (Tue)

Exhibition Speedway

Advertisment-as above.

11

Telegraph Brisbane(Wed)

Exhibition Speedway

Details as previously for Grand Opening.

13

Daily Standard Brisbane (Fri)

Exhibition Speedway

Advertisement for Opening tomorrow night.

13

The Courier Mail Brisbane(Fri)

Exhibition Speedway

The Golden Scratch race will have 16 riders in 4 heatsan d 2 seminal and Grand final. First class handicap in 5 heats B grade scratch race 3 heats and final.

14

The Courier MailBrisbane(Sat)

Exhibition Speedway

As above.

15

Truth Brisbane (Sun)

Exhibition Speedway

Details of events. Golden Helmet-Ray won 3rd heat. Final -Ray broke away by ten lengths to win.

16

The Telegraph Melbourne

Exhibition Speedway

As above. Frank Pearce defeated Ray in Interstate Match Race.

16

Daily Standard Brisbane (Mon)

Exhibition Speedway

As above with added detail.

16

Courier Mail Brisbane (Mon)

Exhibition Speedway

As above.

16

Daily Standard Brisbane(Mon)

Exhibition Speedway

As above with photo.(2 copies)

16

The Courier Mail Brisbane(Mon)

Exhibition Speedway

As above. Helmet to Taylor.

16

The Telegraph Brisbane (Mon

Exhibition Speedway

As above Taylor Wins Helmet. 2 copies Ray photo described as “Lucky”

Month: October 1933

Date

Source News Article

track

Comments

17

The Courier Mail Brisbane (Tues)

Exhibition Speedway

As above.

18

Daily Standard Brisbane(Wed)

Exhibition Speedway

As above. Ray anxious to race for the Bulimba Gauntlet.

19

Referee Sydney(Thurs)

Exhibition Speedway

As above with detail.

21

The Northern Herald Cairns Qld.

Exhibition Speedway

As above.

22

Sunday Mail Brisbane

Exhibition Speedway

As above. Detail.

22

Truth Brisbane(Sun)

Exhibition Speedway

As above.

22

Sunday Mail Brisbane

Exhibition Speedway

Golden Gauntlet Final.  Ray gave furious race. Won.Details.

22

Unknown)Sun)

Exhibition Speedway

Taylor wins Golden Gauntlet.2nd detail copy.

23

Daily Standard Brisbane(Mon)

Exhibition Speedway

Quote: “ Taylor to win Gauntlet”

23

Daily Standard Brisbane(Mon)

Exhibition Speedway

Says Ray should have been disqualified for” boring Frank Arthur out”

23

The Telegraph Brisbane

Exhibition Speedway

As previously mentioned for the Golden Gauntlet and no mention of disqualification.

24

The Telegraph Brisbane

Exhibition Speedway

Ray gave the Bulimba sign shortly after winning the Bulimba Golden Gauntlet. Photo.

27

The Courier Mail Brisbane (Fri)

Exhibition Speedway

Ray to Captain the NSW TEST match against Qld Interstate Match race on Saturday. Also race in the “Black Cat ‘ Pennant .

28

The Courier Mail Brisbane(Sat)

Exhibition Speedway

As above. Ray won the pennant.

29

Truth Brisbane(Sun)

Exhibition Speedway

As above.

30

Daily Standard Brisbane(Mon)

Exhibition Speedway

Taylor wins third big tital. Ray now achieved a “Hat trick” after taking out the “Black Cat” pennant on Saturday night.(2 pages)


Month: November 1933

Date

Source News Article

track

Comments

1

Daily Standard Brisbane(Wed)

Exhibition Speedway

Ray heads Winners in prize money 64 pounds total. (Aust dollars to 2019-($45,00 labour cost-$174,100 economic value )

Ray topped in Trophies with Wally little topped in overall value track wise. Crowds favored Frank Arthur , a Queenslander ,over Ray.

2

Referee Sydney (Thurs)

Exhibition Speedway

Ray won the Black Cat Silver Pennant making his total a “Hat Trick”. 2 copies attached.

3

Daily Standard Brisbane (Fri)

Exhibition Speedway

As above. Can Ray win the Silver Pennant?

3

TheTelegraph Brisbane(Fri)

Exhibition            Speedway

Advertisement for Silver Pennant. 2 attached copies.

6

The Telegraph Brisbane(Mon)

Exhibition            Speedway

Ray may compete? Indian Cup.

8

Unknown

Parramatta Speedway

Event to be held on 9th Nov.

Outstanding feature is Ray to meet Charlie Pegabo In a match race of 2 laps. 2 copies attached.

8

Daily Standard Brisbane (Wed)

Exhibition Speedway

Ray may ride in the Indian cup.

9

Referee Sydney(Thur)

Exhibition Speedway

Meeting postphoned due to wet weather last Saturday.

10

The Telegraph Brisbane(Fri)

Exhibition Speedway

Ray out to win the Silver Sash.

10

Daily Standard Brisbane (Fri)

Exhibition Speedway

Advertisement Interstate teams test and Silver Sash tomorrow night.

11

The Courier Mail Brisbane(Sat)

Exhibition Speedway

After 3 postponements the teams test will be run tonight.

14

The Telegraph Brisbane(Thur)

Exhibition Speedway

Prise money for the new 33-34 season will be 150 pounds per week divided.

15

Courier Mail Brisbane(Wed)

Exhibition Speedway

After many postponements the Silver Sash will be run tonight.


Month: November 1933

Date

Source News Article

track

Comments

17

Courier Mail Brisbane(Fri)

Exhibition Speedway

 

 

 

 

Criticism of inexperienced riders for false starts.2 copies attached.

19

Truth Brisbane(Sun)

Exhibition Speedway

Ray won his heat by a full lap in the Silver Sash but his chain broke in the semi final. The winner was Frank Pearce.

20

Telegraph Brisbane(Sun)

Exhibition Speedway

Frank Pearce won Silver Sash. Ray suffered a broken chain.

22

The Courier Mail Brisbane(Wed)

Exhibition Speedway

Ray is paired with Clem Mitchel for a special match 2 lap race on Saturday

22

The Courier Mail Brisbane(Wed)

Exhibition Speedway

Advertisement for above.

23

Referee Sydney(Thur)

Exhibition Speedway

Ray lost match race but won as part of the  NSW team comp. Rough track although skillfully negotiated by Frank Pearce and Ray. Both run a record time of 74.3 seconds.

24

The courier Mail Brisbane(Fri)

Exhibition Speedway

Castrol Gold helmet and NSW vrs Qld to be held on Saturday.

25

Unknown

Exhibition Speedway

Ray wins Castrol Gold Helmet.