Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
239 | 1108 | 1275 | 248 | 1523 | 5.50 |
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COPE, Steve -
Born: Dewsbury, West Yorkshire 8 January 1969
Manchester based rider who made nine appearances for the Tigers towards the end of
the 1993 season after displacing Will Beveridge from the second reserve berth.
Averaged 2.80 from these fixtures but was not retained for the 1994 season. Steve rode
occasionally for Buxton in 1994 but then disappeared from the scene.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
9 | 30 | 18 | 3 | 21 | 2.80 |
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CRABTREE, Nigel -
Born: Halifax, West Yorkshire 15 March 1960
Nigel spent most of his career racing in the lower league where he was a popular and
class performer, particularly during his spells with Stoke and Glasgow. Has ridden
many times at Owlerton, mainly in the visitors side of the pits, but made eight
appearances for the Tigers in 1984 as cover for injuries.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
8 | 29 | 21 | 5 | 26 | 3.59 |
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CRANE, Cyril -
Born: Norwich, Norfolk 23 September 1934
Will mainly be remembered as a promoter rather than a rider, being in charge of
King's Lynn, Boston and Milton Keynes in the 1970's and 80's. Rode with limited
success at Yarmouth, Norwich and King's Lynn and also had 2 two matches for the
Tigers in 1965 which brought 7 points.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
2 | 8 | 7 | 0 | 7 | 3.50 |
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CRANE, David -
Born: Norwich, Norfolk 15 July 1946
Nephew of Cyril Crane who was a regular member of the 1965 Sheffield side, having
joined the club from his home town team, Norwich, who had closed down during the
winter. Recorded an average of just over 5 points per match for the Tigers and his
small stature made him a spectacular rider to watch. Returned to Norfolk in 1966
when King's Lynn opened and finally retired in 1970 after a spell at Boston.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
26 | 104 | 110 | 21 | 131 | 5.04 |
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DALTON, Bill -
Born: Liverpool, Merseyside 8 August 1920
Learned to ride on the Army tracks in Germany and joined Belle Vue on demob.
Transferred to Tamworth without riding for the Aces in the league and came to
Sheffield in 1950 when the Midlands side closed. Filled a second string role
during the season, scoring 120 league points before moving on to Motherwell.
Settled in South Africa after retirement.
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DAVIDSON, Richard -
Born: Paraparaumu, New Zealand 30 April 1964
After spending the 1989 and 1990 seasons at Stoke, Richard came to Sheffield late into
the 1991 season. Riding in the reserve berth he looked impressive, averaging just over
four points per match and hitting top scores of nine at home to Edinburgh and his old
home circuit at Loomer Road. Despite these showings Richard did not make a racing return
to our shores.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
10 | 48 | 43 | 6 | 49 | 4.08 |
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DAVIS, John -
Born: Oxford, Oxfordshire 10 November 1954
One of England's best riders of the 1980's and certainly the most charismatic, John
figured in a surprise late season loan move to Owlerton from Poole in 1983. Proved
to be a popular member of the side with the supporters, averaging nearly 9 points
per match from his six league outings. Promoter Ray Glover tried to tempt John into
a full time return to Owlerton in 1984 but, put off by the travelling, he moved to
Wimbledon.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
6 | 25 | 52 | 4 | 56 | 8.96 |
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DEWS, John -
Born: Wakefield, West Yorkshire 26 March 1945
One of the all time greats at Owlerton riding for the club between 1962 and 1970,
scoring over 1300 points for the club. Initially started as a trainee at Belle Vue
but made his mark at Sheffield, having his best season in 1966 when he topped the
averages with a figure of 8 points plus. Rider control moved him away to Wimbledon
then Oxford but John was to return to Sheffield in 1977 as team manager, a position
to be relinquished only upon the arrival of Ray Glover in 1980. Later promoted at
Stoke, John was to pass away following a short illness in August 1995 at the age of 50.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
270 | 1033 | 1444.5 | 179 | 1623.5 | 6.29 |
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DICKEN, Lee -
Born: Hull, Humberside 25 August 1978
Rode one match for Sheffield, failing to score from three rides at home to the
Scottish Monarchs during a short loan spell in 1996 when acting as cover during
one of Roman Matousek's many absences. Continues to ride for his hometown team,
the Hull Vikings.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
1 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0.00 |
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DRYML, Ales -
Born: Kolina, Czech Republic 10 June 1953
Signed by Ray Glover from Exeter for a reported £5000 in 1980, Ales rode just six matches for the Tigers before being sacked due to his extensive overseas commitments which prevented him from fulfilling several Sheffield fixtures. Had looked impressive during his short spell, top scoring at Wimbledon, and reached the World Final both that year and in 1981.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
6 | 23 | 28 | 4 | 32 | 5.57 |
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EIDE, Reidar -
Born: Hoyland, Norway 6 November 1940
Reidar was a man of many tracks, joining Sheffield from Poole in 1972 and having already also ridden for Edinburgh, Coatbridge and Wembley. The first Norweigian to ride for the Tigers, he was five times a national champion and reached the World Final in 1968. Never really settled at Owlerton despite topping the averages with a figure of 8.86 and was on the move again the following season, to Newport. Spent his last years working in the Philippines but sadly died in February 1999.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
33 | 145 | 295 | 26 | 321 | 8.86 |
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ELLIOTT, Alf -
Born: England 27 January 1915
Discovered at the Rye House training school after the war and joined the Tigers in 1946, the first season after hostilities had ended. Scored 51 points in his two years at Owlerton but did not hold down a regular place in the team, moving to Wombwell in Division Three during 1947. Later went on to ride for Poole and Oxford before retiring in 1949.
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ELLIOTT, Wayne -
Born: Kingswinford, West Midlands 18 August 1966
Joined Sheffield at the start of the 1987 season from Birmingham, primarily to ride for the 'Cubs' in the junior league. Managed two appearances for the first team during the season but failed to score in either match. Moved to Long Eaton the following season where he found slightly more success.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0.00 |
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ERMOLENKO, Sam -
Born: Maywood, U.S.A. 23 November 1960
After a torrid 1995 season in the newly formed Premier League, Sheffield turned to Sam to ride for the team on a short term basis when Zoltan Adorjan revealed he would not arrive until mid season. Sam had not originally intended to race in the British League but put in some stirring performances which only enhanced his already popular reputation with the Owlerton crowd. After completing his first spell mid season Sam delighted the club by returning when his chances of taking the World title had gone. The 1993 World Champion made 19 appearances for the club, attaining an average of 9.73.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
19 | 104 | 244 | 9 | 253 | 9.73 |
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EVANS, Keith -
Born: Manchester 23 August 1953
Began his career at Barrow in 1972 before moving to Scunthorpe where he became the club's number one. Signed for the Tigers during the 1976 season and moved up full time the following year. His first season saw him promisingly reach an average in excess of 5 points per match but a serious knee injury, followed by an injury to his back, restricted him to just 13 league appearances over the next two years before he retired in 1979. Attempted a comeback with Stoke in 1981 but quit after only one ride stating that he had lost his nerve.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
66 | 220 | 231 | 46 | 277 | 5.04 |
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EVITTS, Neil -
Born: Birmingham, West Midlands 25 September 1964
When Sheffield reopened their doors after a two year absence in 1991, Neil was signed
from Bradford to form a twin spearhead with Peter Carr. The former British Champion had
a great season with the Tigers, finishing fourth in the Second Division averages with
a figure of nearly ten points per match. The following season saw Neil continue in a
similar scoring vein but behind the scenes the situation was not so rosy and a contractual
dispute saw Neil leave the club under a cloud. He was then involved in a protracted legal
dispute with the promotion which at one stage reportedly threatened the future of the club.
Neil retired after suffering a knee injury and is now involved in the engine tuning
business.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
36 | 171 | 406 | 11 | 417 | 9.75 |
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FEATHERBY, Clive -
Born: King's Lynn, Norfolk, 6 April 1933
Rode for the Tigers between 1961 and 1965 and during that time was probably the most popular
rider at Owlerton. His aggressive style of riding made him something of a cult hero with the
fans although by his own admission he was an individualist and not a team man. He was equally
as unpopular with opposing riders and fans alike but over 1,000 points in his five years at
Owlerton make him one of the all time great Sheffield riders. Clive finally retired after
suffering a badly broken leg whilst riding for King's Lynn in 1972 and settled in Australia
after retirement.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
122 | 492 | 1070 | 44 | 1114 | 9.06 |
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FINCH, Steve -
Born: Middlestown, West Yorkshire 8 January 1958
When the Tigers hit various injury crises in 1979 and 1980 Steve helped to keep the club reasonably competitive. At the time he was one of the top riders in the Second Division, riding for Ellesmere Port, and often turned in useful performances - achieving and average of around 4.5 points per match. Appeared in 24 official fixtures for the Tigers.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
24 | 92 | 96 | 9 | 105 | 4.57 |
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FIORA, Mark -
Born: Mount Barker, Australia 16 May 1962
Spotted by promoter Ray Glover on a trip to Australia, Mark joined Sheffield in 1981 as
an inexperienced 18 year old. Initially went out on loan to Scunthorpe but even though
he struggled in Division Two he was quickly called up to ride full time for the Tigers.
It was a remarkable move which quickly paid off and he became one of the success stories
of the season. Began the 1982 season in the team but lost his place to Zenon Plech in
mid season. Spent the rest of his British career in Division Two, achieving heat leader
status and eventually retiring in 1988.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
54 | 170 | 151 | 30 | 181 | 4.26 |
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FOG, Allan -
Born: Middlefart, Denmark 4 August 1972
Signed by Eastbourne in 1993 after some impressive trials at Arlington but could not be fitted into the Eagles' line up. Joined Sheffield later in the year but looked a complete novice around Owlerton. His time at Sheffield was a nightmare with a run of poor form and injuries and he was quickly released.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
6 | 20 | 6 | 0 | 6 | 1.20 |
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FOY, Robbie -
Born: Perth, Australia 28 February 1963
Hailed as a potential world beater when he joined the Tigers as a raw 18 year old in 1982. Found the pace of British speedway far too hot and despite winning his first league ride he did little else, scoring only 8 points in 8 meetings for Sheffield. Lost his place in the team to David Bargh and went out on loan to Newcastle where he managed to pick up a Division Two championship medal. Retired completely on returning to Perth that winter,
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
8 | 21 | 8 | 1 | 9 | 1.71 |
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FRANCE, Rick -
Born: Birmingham, West Midlands 12 July 1938
Rick had been a fixture in the Coventry side for over a decade before joining
Sheffield in 1973. Spent just one season at Owlerton in the side that finished
second in the league and despite finishing seventh in the averages he recorded
a figure of almost 7 points per match. Moved to Halifax the following year and
spent two season at The Shay before retiring. Rick was a World Finalist in 1967.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
32 | 118 | 167 | 35 | 202 | 6.85 |
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FRANKLAND, John -
Born: Manchester 1 January 1963
A second halfer at Owlerton in the early 1980's, John rode just one league match for the Tigers, scoring 2 paid 3 at home to Swindon on May 28 1981. Found more success in the lower leagues, notably with Long Eaton with whom he won a championship medal in 1984. Retired the following season on medical advice with a long standing hip injury.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
1 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 3 | 6.00 |
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FURLANETTO, Valentino - Born: Lonigo, Italy 11 May 1965
A class performer on the continental circuits who looked to be a scoop signing, both in terms of points and publicity, in 1988 and articles were run in Sheffield newspapers asking for girlfriends for Valentino. However, the Italian never settled in British speedway and despite flashes of form he returned home after only 11 official matches which produced less than a point a ride. Continued to ride on the continent with some success, twice winning the Italian Championship but did not return to British speedway.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
11 | 40 | 28 | 8 | 36 | 3.60 |
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FURNISS, Glen -
Born: Sheffield, South Yorkshire 5 June 1973
Locally born second halfer, who made his debut in the Conference League for the Owlerton 'Prowlers' in 1996. Had a short run in the team at reserve in 1998 but found most of his success with the Belle Vue 'Colts' in the Conference League. Suffered a major set back in his career when his bikes were stolen from his van after a meeting at Belle Vue.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
2 | 6 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 1.33 |
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GEARY, Dick -
Born: St. Albans, Hertfordshire 19 March 1917
First rode for West Ham in 1938 before the war interrupted his progress. Resumed with the Hammers after the war but found the going tough and dropped down a league to join the Tigers in June 1946. Scored 97 league points before moving to Wigan during 1947. Had further spells with Fleetwood and Walthamstow before retiring.
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GERRARD, Dave -
Born: Liverpool, Merseyside 13 August 1940
Joined his home town team when Second Division racing returned in 1960 but retired during the year after starting well. After a spell out of the saddle he came to Sheffield for a short period in 1962 but only scored 7 points for the club.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
3 | 11 | 7 | 4 | 11 | 4.00 |
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GLOVER, Carl -
Born: Sheffield, South Yorkshire 11 October 1952
Despite being born in the city Carl initially joined Boston in Division Two,
making his debut in 1971. Became one of the top riders in the section, winning
the Division Two Riders Championship at Wimbledon in 1974. Joined Sheffield the
same season and doubled up between the two leagues, helping the Tigers win the
Knock Out Cup. After recording an average in excess of 6 points per match in 1975
whilst riding for the Tigers his career went into decline and mid way through 1977
figured in a swap deal with King's Lynn for Billy Burton. Carl retired in 1978 but
his involvement with the sport was not over, taking over as manager of the Tigers
during his father's reign as promoter. Also team managed the national side.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
106 | 436 | 512 | 81 | 593 | 5.44 |
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GLOVER, Les -
Born: Sheffield, South Yorkshire 26 September 1955
Brother of Carl Glover who also joined the Tigers via a spell in the Second Division with
Boston. Les did not prove to be as successful as Carl and rode just 26 times in official
fixtures in 1975 and 1976. After leaving the Tigers Les spent some years racing in the
German league.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
26 | 72 | 50 | 12 | 62 | 3.44 |
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GORDON, Jack -
Born: Bolton, Lancashire 21 January 1912
A pre war Belle Vue rider, Jack was a member of Middlesbrough's Division Two
championship winning side of 1946. After leaving the Bears during 1947 Jack's
career took on something of a nomadic existence before joining Sheffield in
1950. Scored just two points for the Tigers in what proved to be his last season.
Jack sadly died in February 2000.
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GORMAN, Brian -
Born: Sheffield, South Yorkshire 1 June 1924
A local man who was discovered at the Stoke training school in the winter of 1946/7.
After a spell with the Potters and with Hull, Brian came to Owlerton in 1948 but was
unable to win a regular team place with the Tigers. Scored just 15 points for the
club before leaving for Newcastle during the 1949 season. He returned to Owlerton
in 1950 but again failed to establish himself in the team.
back to index
GREEN, Johnny -
Born: Burnley, Lancashire 25 May 1927
Had a career spanning from 1949 to 1961 and rode for many clubs. Stopped off at Owlerton for a short spell in 1950 scoring 9 points before joining Newcastle but had most success with Edinburgh and Motherwell in the early 1950's. Hit the headlines again in 1983, for the wrong reasons, as he reportedly received a lengthy jail sentence for his part in a drugs ring.
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GREEN, Randy -
Born: Great Falls, U.S.A. 25 July 1964
Signed by Hackney as an unknown in 1987 and after losing his place in the London side, moved north to Bradford. Found himself surplus to requirements at Odsal during 1988 and figured in a mid season move to Sheffield. Rode in six official fixtures for the Tigers and although his spell was interrupted by injury he proved to be a popular member of the team. Failed to win another team place in Britain after the Tigers closed at the end of the season.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
6 | 19 | 16 | 3 | 19 | 4.00 |
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GREEN, Simon -
Born: Skipton, North Yorkshire 8 November 1969
Although Simon was not a big scorer, usually filling a second string or reserve
berth for the club, he will always have a special place in the hearts of the
Tigers supporters who will remember his near fatal crash whilst riding against
Long Eaton at Owlerton in 1991. Only Simon's physical fitness saved him from
death and he made an amazing recovery to return to the side for the following
season. Later had spells with Newcastle and Bradford before finally retiring
in 1995.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
24 | 96 | 94 | 15 | 109 | 4.54 |
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GUNNESTAD, Lars -
Born: Drammen, Norway 18 February 1971
Lars was one of the most sought after riders in World speedway with several leading
club's chasing his signature, when he amazingly joined Sheffield near the end of the
1991 season. His form was sensational and he fully lived up to his reputation as one
of the top riders in Scandinavia. With hindsight, Lars was never going to stay with
the Tigers as he sought top flight racing to further his international career but
his signing was a master stroke as his transfer to Poole brought in much needed money
to the club. Although Lars has never fulfilled his potential he has proved to be a
class heat leader in Division One.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
6 | 32 | 68 | 0 | 68 | 8.50 |
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HAGON, Martin -
Born: Hackney, London 25 December 1961
Son of former rider Alf Hagon who was Ray Glover's last signing before he sold out to
Maurice Ducker on the eve of the 1984 season. At one time it appeared that Martin would
lead the Tigers in Division Two, under Glover, but the new promotion preserved his First
Division status. Martin spent his best years in the sport at Owlerton and was a regular
in the side for three years. Hit some terrific purple patches of form although his average
remained at between 5 and 6 points per match each season. A pioneer of the lay down machine
who rode them in the mid eighties before they became commonplace.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
116 | 418 | 503 | 70 | 573 | 5.48 |
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HALEY, Arnold -
Born: Leeds, West Yorkshire 15 September 1942
One of the most popular riders to have ridden for Sheffield in a Tigers career which
spanned from 1965 to 1978. In that time he scored nearly 3000 league points and held a
heat leader berth from 1967 to 1973 and qualified for the World Final as reserve in 1968.
He will be remembered for some inspirational
performances, particularly against Ipswich in the 1974 Knock Out Cup Final victory.
Injuries restricted his appearances and scoring potential in the late 1970's and he
moved to Belle Vue in 1979. A short spell at Cradley, and then National League Oxford
followed before he finally retired in 1981. Arnie sadly passed away after a fall at home in March 2003.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
389 | 1580 | 2628.5 | 308 | 2936.5 | 7.43 |
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HAMPSON, Mike -
Born: Ashton-Under-Lyne, Greater Manchester 26 July 1973
Mike had two spells at Sheffield in 1995 and 1997, riding usually at reserve. Turned in some useful performances,
particularly in his second spell when he held his place throughout the second half of the season. Excelled at
Conference League level with Buxton but had to retire following a complicated wrist injury.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
27 | 121 | 72 | 17 | 89 | 2.94 |
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HANDSCOMBE, Ken -
Born: England 1941
Made his first league appearance for Sheffield in 1962 after having previously ridden for Bradford. Spent three
seasons on the fringes of the team, scoring a total of 45 points before moving briefly to Middlesbrough in 1964
when domestic reasons forced him out of the sport.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
25 | 73 | 47 | 8 | 55 | 3.01 |
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HARKINS, Bert -
Born: Glasgow, Scotland 15 April 1940
One of the few Scotsmen to have appeared for the Tigers, Bert spent just one season at
Owlerton in 1972. Averaged over 7 points per match despite being based in the south of
England. Having joined Sheffield from Wembley, Bert returned to London in 1973 to ride
for Wimbledon. He ranks as one of Scotland's all time top ten riders.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
35 | 142 | 221 | 33 | 254 | 7.15 |
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HART, John -
Born: Birmingham, West Midlands 22 January 1941
John joined the Tigers early in the 1966 season from Cradley with whom he had spent the
previous five years. He was an ever present that season and again in 1967, when he finished
third in the averages with a figure a fraction under 7 points per match. Moved to Leicester
in 1968 and retired in 1975 after further spells at Cradley and his home town team, Birmingham.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
74 | 302 | 435 | 52 | 487 | 6.45 |
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HATTERSLEY, Phil -
Born: Sheffield, South Yorkshire 17 November 1933, Died: 7 February 2019
Locally born rider who began his speedway career at Owlerton in 1960.
Rode in the junior events and broke into the team in 1962, scoring one point in his only meeting. Phil re opened
the Wombwell circuit as a training track in 1964 and still takes a great interest in the sport, being seen weekly on the terraces at Owlerton.
Dec 2018: I heard from son Mark that Phil is out of hospital and back in his nursing home and he was going to show him this
updated entry. Then in February 2019, that he had passed away.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
1 | 3 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 1.33 |
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HAWKES, Guy -
Born: Bunbury, Australia 17 June 1941
Perth based school teacher who spent the 1968 and 69 seasons in England. Did not win a regular place in the Sheffield line up, mainly riding in second halves, but rode more frequently on loan at Doncaster in Division Two. Obtained an average of 7 in the lower league but quit stating he could not make Second Division racing pay.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
12 | 27 | 16 | 3 | 19 | 2.81 |
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HAYNES, Rod -
Born: Sheffield, South Yorkshire 21 December 1950
Former cycle speedway rider who had his first outings at the Sheffield Training School in 1970. Served his speedway apprenticeship at Scunthorpe in Division Two before moving up full time to ride for the Tigers in 1974. Played a major part in the Knock Out Cup triumph despite missing out on the final and had increased his average to 6 when his career was ended by a badly broken leg sustained early into the 1975 season at Poole.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
45 | 132 | 116 | 39 | 155 | 4.70 |
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HEDDEN, Bobby -
Born: Kernville, U.S.A. 6 March 1971
Rode at the Overseas Final stage of the World Championship in 1996 at Coventry and joined Sheffield for a short spell later in the season. Rode in the last five league matches of the year and although he only scored five points he started to look the part before the season closed. Struggled slightly on the larger European tracks and has not ridden in the British League since his outings with the Tigers. Qualified for the Overseas final in 2001, but failed to score riding Brent Werner's bikes at Poole.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
5 | 18 | 5 | 0 | 5 | 1.11 |
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HEIGOLD, Derek -
Born: Rotherham, South Yorkshire 29 October 1938
A former grass track rider who turned to speedway when the gates reopened at Sheffield in 1960. Unable to win a team place at Owlerton, he had outings with Bradford in 1960 and finally made his Tigers debut the following season. His promising career was ended when he crashed with fellow Tigers junior Terry Turner in a second half race at Owlerton in 1961 which left him with multiple injuries and in a coma for 168 hours. Although he recovered from his injuries he never rode a speedway bike again.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
1 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 5 | 4.00 |
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HELL, Csaba -
Born: Kistelek, Hungary 29 May 1970
Targeted by Glasgow in 1991 after some impressive displays on British circuits
with a Hungarian touring side. When Glasgow could not fit him into the side he
joined Sheffield but after only two matches he was released from his contract
when the extent of his Continental commitments became apparent.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
1 | 4 | 3 | 0 | 3 | 3.00 |
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HEPWORTH, Mark -
Born: Dewsbury, West Yorkshire 22 September 1967
A Sheffield junior from the mid 1980's who returned to the club when the sport was
reintroduced to the city in 1991. Took over from Derrol Keats in the side in June
and held his place for most of the season proving to be a popular member of the side.
Began 1992 in the team but was axed after missing a visit to Rye House to travel to
Poland with Eric Boocock.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
22 | 83 | 71 | 13 | 84 | 4.05 |
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HICKMAN, Stuart -
Born: Sheffield, South Yorkshire 23 February 1922
Had a speedway career spanning over 15 years which took in two spells at Owlerton. After making his league debut for Wombwell in 1948 Stuart joined the Tigers in 1950 and scored 13 points during the season before moving on to Long Eaton. After almost a decade in retirement he returned to Sheffield in 1960 when the team entered the Provincial League. Was one of the leading lights of the 1960 team but suffered a broken leg after starting the 1961 season in fine form. Moved to Bradford as captain in 1962 which proved to be his last season in the sport.
back to index
HIGGS, Alvin -
Local junior who had second half rides in 1947 before making brief team appearances in 1948, scoring two league points.
back to index
HILAIRE, Thierry -
Born: Suresnes, France 1 June 1963
Not one of the best signings that Sheffield have ever made, Thierry joining the club in 1992 after previously appearing for Long Eaton and Milton Keynes. Came in on a ridiculously high assessed average which he was never going to achieve and managed only 3 points in 20 rides. However, he was often worth the admission money alone and the talk of the terraces when Thierry was riding was not only if he was going to finish the race but also how many of his opponents. Remains the only Frenchman to have ridden for the club.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
6 | 20 | 3 | 0 | 3 | 0.60 |
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HOCKADAY, Eric -
Born: London 9 September 1929
Eric was a former stunt rider who came to Sheffield in 1966 from Cradley. Had started riding over 10 years earlier at Aldershot and was in the twilight of his career when he arrived at Owlerton. Proved to be a useful team member in his first season, averaging over 5.5 points per match as the Tigers finished in mid table but after only 8 appearances the following season he moved back to Dudley Wood and retired after a short spell at Long Eaton in 1969.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
31 | 84 | 94 | 17 | 111 | 5.29 |
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HODGSON, Lee -
Born: Preston, Lancashire 19 February 1985
A product of the Sheffield training track Lee made his debut for the Prowlers in 2000
sustaining a broken leg at Rye House in August. He signed for the Tigers on his birthday and started the 2001
season
in style by winning his first ride in the televised match against Workington. Lee suffered a broken collar bone
riding for the Prowlers at Newport and never managed to reclaim his team spot.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
3 | 13 | 8 | 1 | 9 | 2.77 |
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HODSON, Stan -
Born: Nottingham, Nottinghamshire 4 March 1922
Rode in Sheffield's initial post war season scoring 12 points and appeared briefly in 1947 before joining Wombwell on loan. In 1948 Stan proved to be an important member of Exeter's Third Division championship winning side but developed heath problems and was advised to retire in 1949. However, Stan defied this advice to continue riding and sadly died of a heart attack in June of that year at the age of 27.
back to index
HOLEY, Stan -
Born: Halifax, West Yorkshire 1934
A regular competitor on the northern circuits for over a decade, Stan made just
one non scoring appearance for the Tigers in 1965. Had his best season with Bradford
five years earlier but this was the only occasion he really established himself in a
team. He was better known as a team manager and took charge of team affairs at
various tracks.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
1 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0.00 |
back to index
HOMER, Rob -
Born: Birmingham, West Midlands 9 September 1972
A former Coventry junior, Rob joined Sheffield in 1991 when Cliff Carr brought the
sport back to Owlerton. Rode solely for the Cubs in the junior league that season
before sustaining back injuries in an accident at Peterborough which kept him out
for the rest of the year. Made his league debut in 1992 and finished the season in
the side following an injury to Steve Knott. Also had a short mid season spell the
following year but could not claim a regular team place.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
9 | 30 | 12 | 3 | 15 | 2.00 |
back to index
HOOLE, Ade -
Born: Telford, Shropshire 28 August 1970
Another 1991 junior signing who looked superb when riding for the Cubs but found
life more difficult in the first team. Ade had previously ridden for Wolverhampton
and averaged 10.77 for the juniors in his year at Sheffield. Had a couple of useful
home appearances for the Tigers towards the end of the season but his end of year
first team average was only slightly over 3 points. Moved to Stoke in 1992 and
continued in much the same vein for the Potters.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
12 | 39 | 26 | 5 | 31 | 3.18 |
back to index
HORNBY, Bernie -
Born: Manchester 15 September 1947
Rode in second half events at Sheffield throughout the early 1970's but spent the
majority of his career in the Second Division with Workington. Made only three first
team appearances for the Tigers, one per year in 1971, 1972 and 1975, and failed to
score in any of these fixtures. Bernie is the brother-in-law of ex Australian
international John Titman.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
3 | 7 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0.00 |
back to index
HORNE, Ralph -
Born: England
An ex jockey who rode in the immediate post war years, most successfully with Coventry
in 1948. Had two short spells at Owlerton in 1947 and 1949, scoring a total of 17 league
points.
back to index
HOWE, Les -
Little known rider who scored 3 points for the Tigers in the 1950 season, his only league
appearances for any club.
back to index
JAY, Alan -
Born: Oxford, Oxfordshire 18 January 1941
Made his league debut for the Tigers in 1961 and spent seven years with the club,
scoring over 600 points. Alan usually filled a second string or a reserve berth and
was a regular in the side from 1962. After leaving Sheffield Alan rode for Newcastle,
Halifax and Coventry before retiring in 1975. Now runs the family scrap metal and
salvage business in Rotherham.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
163 | 608 | 652 | 121 | 773 | 5.09 |
back to index
JAY, Derek -
Born: Oxford, Oxfordshire 19 August 1943
Younger brother of Alan who spent almost all his time in the second half, only making
the team on 7 occasions between 1964 and 1966.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
7 | 18 | 3 | 1 | 4 | 0.89 |
back to index
JAY, Wilf -
Born: Rotherham, South Yorkshire 28 June 1913
Wilf is certainly the oldest rider to have ridden for the Tigers since the war, making
his one and only Sheffield appearance at Long Eaton in 1964, at the remarkable age of 51.
Sons Alan and Derek were also in the Sheffield team that day. He was a pre war star and
was a heat leader in the years that immediately followed the end of hostilities, riding
notably for Norwich, Newcastle and Walthamstow. Wilf died in 1973 but his name lives on
at the family business in Rotherham.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
1 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 2.00 |
back to index
JEFFCOATE, Ian -
Born: Sheffield, South Yorkshire 17 June 1954
A regular in second half events at Owlerton in the late 1970's, Ian made seven official first team appearances between 1976 and 1979. During loan spells at Scunthorpe and Stoke in the Second Division he obtained a useful three to four point average and was a capable reserve at that level of racing.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
7 | 21 | 7 | 1 | 8 | 1.52 |
back to index
JENKINS, Dennis -
Born: England 1930
Manchester based rider who rode for much of the late 1950's in the second half at
Belle Vue without regularly riding for the Aces team. One of the many riders to
take advantage of the introduction of Provincial League racing in 1960 when several
tracks including Sheffield, reopened, Dennis originally joined Liverpool before
coming to Owlerton in 1961. Scored 6 points for the Tigers and retired two years
later after spells at Bradford, Long Eaton and Newcastle.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
4 | 11 | 6 | 3 | 9 | 3.27 |
back to index
JOHNSTON, Ron -
Born: Dunedin, New Zealand
First came to England in 1950, joining Belle Vue. Loaned to Sheffield during the season
to gain experience and scored 52 points from his 9 matches in Sheffield colours. He
returned to Belle Vue the following season and spent the next decade with the Aces,
reaching four World Finals before returning home at the end of the 1961 season.
back to index
JOHNSTON, Steve -
Born: Kalgoorlie, Australia 12 October 1971
Spotted riding at Perth by the Tigers management and offered a contract for the 1992
season, Steve was initially meant to be arriving on an assessed two point average due
to British parentage but the sport's governing body ruled that his average should be
fixed at 7.00. As a result the team was weaker than originally planned but Steve held
his place throughout the season and became a favourite on the terraces with his battling
style. After being due to start 1993 in the team he suffered an eve of season hand
injury and lost his team place after a difficult start to the season. Has since developed
into a capable Division One heat leader and international rider after spells with Long
Eaton, Ipswich and Oxford.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
27 | 120 | 93 | 15 | 108 | 3.60 |
back to index
KARLSSON, Soren -
Born: Orebro, Sweden 23 October 1946
Had just one season at Sheffield, joining the club in 1975. Soren had
missed out on British action altogether the previous season after
spending the 1973 season with Coventry and showed flashes of form to
record an average of just over 6 points per match. Moved on to Swindon
after leaving the Tigers, spending a further three years with the
Wiltshire side. Never rose above second string level whilst in Britain
but did qualify for the 1977 World Final as a non riding reserve.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
27 | 88 | 108 | 26 | 134 | 6.09 |
back to index
KEATS, Derrol -
Born: Sheffield, South Yorkshire 26 June 1963
Began his speedway career at Owlerton in the mid 1980's but rode only
periodically under Maurice Ducker's promotion, spending periods on loan
at Second Division tracks. When the Tigers returned to the sport in 1991
Derrol was brought back and proved to be an immensely popular, if
erratic reserve, earning himself the title 'Dangerous Derrol'. Soon
found himself out in the cold and disappeared from the speedway scene
completely for five years, riding only the occasional grass track
meeting. Returned in 1996 to lead the Owlerton Prowlers in the
Conference League, eventually forcing his way into the team and
amazingly showing the best form of his career in 1998. To the
disappointment of many Derrol was not retained for the 1999 season and
although the move initially proved unpopular, his replacement Simon
Stead was a major part in the championship win that season.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
58 | 230 | 198 | 52 | 250 | 4.35 |
back to index
KESSLER, Robert -
Born: Neuwied, Germany 5 April 1973
Joined Sheffield mid way through the 1994 season and recorded a highly
impressive 5 point average in his first year. Missed out on the 1995
season due to National Service commitments, returning to Owlerton the
following year to continue his improvement in the combined Premier
League. When the sport returned to the two division structure again in
1997 Robert stayed with the Tigers and took over as the club's number
one but a misunderstanding over continental commitments meant he
concentrated on the Polish and German leagues in 1998. Following a
season on loan at King's Lynn, Robert returned to the Tigers line up for
the 2000 season where he reestablished his credentials as a Premier League heat-leader. Robbie missed the Tigers Young Shield play-off matches after sustaining knee ligament injuries while guesting for Swindon at Edinburgh.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
147 | 718 | 1378 | 77 | 1455 | 8.11 |
back to index
KITCHEN, Jack -
Born: Lancaster, Lancashire 2 August 1938
Began his career at Belle Vue in the second halves, eventually
graduating to the Aces team. Came to Sheffield in 1960 when Provincial
League racing was introduced and finished second top scorer with 122
points before reverting back to Belle Vue the following season. Returned
for a second spell with the Tigers in 1963 and stayed for a four year
period, forming a potent top two with Clive Featherby. Averaged over 9
in the first season of the British League in 1965 but business
commitments clashed with his racing and his form slipped in 1966,
calling it a day at the end of that season. Jack sadly died in August 1990.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
113 | 472 | 974.5 | 80 | 1054.5 | 8.94 |
back to index
KNOTT, Steve -
Born: Nocton Hall, Lincolnshire 29 March 1975
'Knotty' was a former Boston mascot who developed through the juniors at
Sheffield into the team in 1992. Became a regular in the side and looked
to be one of the Tigers' best prospects for many years. However,
progress was not as quick as had been expected and a move to Cradley
followed in 1995. Two years later, after a short spell in retirement
Steve returned to Sheffield and regained his position as a reliable
second string. Unlucky to be dropped mid way through the 1998 season to
make way for Dane, Robert Larsen, and although Larsen broke his leg
without making his league debut Steve's average prevented him from being
recalled and he drifted out of the sport.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
113 | 501 | 506 | 77 | 583 | 4.65 |
back to index
KROEZE, Henny -
Born: Zenderen, Holland 11 March 1952
Despite being Holland's greatest ever speedway rider, Henny was some way
past his best when he came to Sheffield in 1979. The peak of his career
had been some three years earlier whilst at Halifax when he became the
first rider to score a 21 point maximum. His time at Sheffield was
blighted by injury and 30 official appearances in two years brought only
88 points. Quit British speedway in 1980 but was seeded to the 1987 World
Final in Amsterdam.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
30 | 96 | 88 | 15 | 103 | 4.29 |
back to index
KYLLINGSTAD, Einar -
Born: Brini, Norway 17 July 1965
Despite some impressive continental showings, Einar did not really
produce the goods in Britain apart from an occasional high score for
King's Lynn prior to him signing for the Tigers. Seven matches in
Sheffield colours in a mid season spell in 1988 brought only 16 points
and he was quickly released.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
7 | 26 | 16 | 6 | 22 | 3.38 |
back to index
LACEY, Bert -
Born: London 1916
Began riding after the war with Belle Vue and joined the Tigers in 1947.
Failed to score any points for the club that season and moved on to
Wombwell then Coventry, where he had his greatest success, reaching heat
leader status and holding the track record at Brandon. Returned to
Owlerton in 1950 but was injured in an early season crash which prompted
his retirement.
back to index
LAMBOURNE, Reg -
Born: Worcester, Worcestershire 1 July 1911
First rode at Bristol in 1936 and was a member of their successful side
up until the outbreak of war three years later. Joined Sheffield when
racing resumed in 1946, scoring 37 points during the season before
moving on to Wigan and Fleetwood. Became the first ever captain of the
Swindon Robins in 1949 and retired after riding for the Wiltshire side for four seasons.
back to index
LANFEAR, Stan -
Born: Bristol, Avon
A pre war grass track star who took up speedway at his home town circuit in 1946.
After riding for Plymouth, Stan joined Sheffield in 1948,
spending only a short time with the Tigers, scoring 8 points. Soon returned to the
south west where he showed better form with Exeter.
back to index
LANGDON, Tony -
Born: Brisbane, Australia 20 June 1969
Proved immensely popular during his short spell at Owlerton, in the second half of
the 1992 season. Made his first trip to Britain in 1988,
linking with Poole and had ridden for the Pirates right up until his loan move to
Owlerton after finding life hard in the First Division. On
his debut at Middlesbrough the Tigers recorded their first away win of the season
and his home debut three days later brought a paid maximum.
Tony achieved an average in excess of 9 points during his stay and was high on the
shopping list for the 1993 season. It was a major
disappointment when he chose to sign for Oxford.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
8 | 43 | 92 | 7 | 99 | 9.21 |
back to index
LARSSON, Bengt -
Born: Mariestad, Sweden 25 December 1946
Signed in 1967 and made an impact straight away, recording a maximum in his first
ever away match at King's Lynn. Although he found this form impossible to repeat
he was a popular figure at Owlerton and held a heat leader berth until 1969, which
proved to be his best year, averaging over 8 points per match. Missed out on the
1972 season but returned the following year as the Tigers finished runners up to
Reading in the league. Came back for a third spell in 1976 but by this time he was
past his best and his average slipped to under 4. Bengt was the first Scandinavian
rider to ride regularly for the Tigers.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
193 | 788 | 1225 | 203 | 1428 | 7.25 |
back to index
LEE, Danny -
Born: London 12 March 1916
Began riding in 1934 and rode for, amongst others, Birmingham and Southampton before
the war. Spent two seasons at Sheffield, joining in
1947 and scoring 135 league points before his departure to Edinburgh the following
season. Danny was a useful lower order rider, often turning in
match winning performances from the second string or reserve berths. Retired in
1951 after a spell with Motherwell.
back to index
LEE, Paul -
Born: Nottingham, Nottinghamshire 21 March 1981
Began his career as a 15 year old with Peterborough and showed some startling Conference
League form which quickly had him marked down as a
rider for the future. Joined Long Eaton on reaching 16 and when the doors
closed to speedway at Station Road he moved to Hull. Found life
difficult at Craven Park, with the track not suiting his style of riding
but a move to Owlerton in 1999 brought his career back on track and his
improvement was a major part in the treble winning side. Didn't make the
further improvements expected of him with the Tigers in 2000 and went on
loan to Coventry in the Elite League for the 2001 season. Paul returned to
the Tigers to guest for the injured Scott Smith but only completed one lap
before clipping Mike Smith's rear wheel and hurtling head first into the
fence. Suffering shoulder and facial injuries Paul was out of the saddle
for 2 months.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
85 | 353 | 437 | 79 | 516 | 5.85 |
back to index
LOHMANN, Klaus -
Born: Hillerod, Denmark 11 March 1959
One of Ray Glover's first signings when he took over the track in 1980. Klaus had
previously ridden for Yorkshire rivals, Halifax and had shown plenty of improvement
at The Shay which suggested he could emulate the achievement of elder brother Mike
who was a heat leader for the Dukes. However, his form at Owlerton was poor and after
just 19 official fixtures he became one of many riders to be axed by Mr. Glover, having
averaged less than 5. This was to be his last spell in British speedway.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
19 | 74 | 75 | 15 | 90 | 4.86 |
back to index
LONG, Henry -
Born: South Africa 1925
One of South Africa's best riders who rode for Sheffield in 1948, gaining experience for a more illustrious career which followed with
Belle Vue. Henry's spell with Sheffield was brief, scoring only 4 points but performed with distinction for the Aces, reaching the 1952 World
Final.
back to index
LONG, Mike -
Born: Napier, New Zealand 24 September 1966
Napier based Kiwi who spent most of the 1988 season in the juniors at Owlerton. Made six appearances for the club but failed to score in any
of these fixtures. Found slightly more success during a loan spell at Edinburgh but did not return to these shores for 1989.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
6 | 11 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0.00 |
back to index
LONSDALE, Vic -
Born: Rochdale, Lancashire 19 July 1936
Rated as a top junior prospect at Bradford in 1956 but his progress was halted by a fractured skull the following year and had to wait until
1960 for his league debut. Dubbed 'The Wildman', Vic rode briefly for Sheffield in 1963, scoring 27 points but continued in the saddle until
1970 when he appeared for Workington in Division Two . Rode in the 1991 Indoor Ice Meeting at Telford but sadly died of a heart attack later
that year.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
7 | 23 | 27 | 6 | 33 | 5.74 |
back to index
MAJOR, George -
Born: Oxford, Oxfordshire 26 October 1939
Made his league debut for Aldershot in 1959 and had something of a nomadic career
before joining the Tigers, riding for seven teams before arriving at Owlerton in 1966,
having been allocated to the club from Cradley. Had a nightmare start to his Sheffield
career, breaking his leg in his very first race and riding only 8 times before the end
of the season. Stayed one more year before moving to Leicester and retired in 1975 after
a five year spell at Birmingham, George is now team manger for Isle of Wight.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
32 | 105 | 135 | 18 | 153 | 5.83 |
back to index
MAKINEN, Rauli -
Born: Hameenkyro, Finland 11 August 1946
The signing of Makinen perhaps reflected the slump that Sheffield found themselves in
by the late 1970's. Joined the club in 1978 and at the age of 31 was hardly a signing
for the future. He had plenty of experience, mainly on Finnish long tracks and struggled
to adapt to British League racing, averaging only 1.75 from 5 league matches. His top
score was 3 points at home to Leicester and he was never seen at Sheffield again after
failing to return from Finland where he had been competing in World Championship rounds
in June.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
5 | 16 | 7 | 0 | 7 | 1.75 |
back to index
MASON, Alan -
Born: Christchurch, New Zealand 10 September 1960
Surprisingly joined the Tigers in 1983 from Glasgow, having only previously reached
reserve standard in Division Two. Had a long run in the side and considering his lack
of experience in the top flight did well, filling a reserve berth for most of the season
and recording an average of over 3 points. Returned for 1984 but eventually lost his
place in an eight man Tigers squad, moving out on loan to Newcastle.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
56 | 169 | 112 | 20 | 132 | 3.12 |
back to index
MATOUSEK, Roman -
Born: Slany, Czech Republic 23 May 1964
Roman played the part of hero and villain in equal measures during his eventful
four season stint at Owlerton. Some of his performances were quite astounding
and his talent on a speedway bike was never in question, however, all too often
he was absent from the side for long spells with various problems encountered on
the continent. His fearless riding upset many opponents but the memories he left
at Owlerton are far too long to list although his post race celebration wheelies,
celebrating on the dog track after clinching the bonus point in a run off with
Chris Louis and throwing his race shirt into the crowd, fighting on the fourth
bend with Sean Wilson and preventing the faster Alan Grahame from passing and
causing the Hull rider to slide off on the last bend, clinching the match for
Sheffield, readily spring to mind. Perhaps with hindsight he should have been
sacked earlier due to the disruptive influence on the team but he remains a cult
hero at Owlerton. Roman reached five consecutive World Finals between 1987 and 1991.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
118 | 620 | 1057 | 73 | 1130 | 7.29 |
back to index
MAXTED, Brian -
Born: Beckingham, Lincolnshire 26 June 1941
Began grass track racing in Lincolnshire in the early 1960's and was spotted by
Wolverhampton promoter Bill Bridgett. Made his Wolves debut in 1965 and joined
Sheffield three years later. Never a star, Brian was a steady scoring middle order
rider that every team needs, averaging around 6 points per match in his first two
years at Sheffield. Stayed until 1972 when he dropped to the Second Division to
lead Scunthorpe and although he retired from speedway later that year he continued
to ride on the grass track circuits until 1978, winning the British Championship
four times.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
161 | 577 | 635.5 | 111 | 746.5 | 5.18 |
back to index
MAXTED, Peter -
Born: Beckingham, Lincolnshire 26 June 1946
Younger brother of Brian Maxted, who's Sheffield appearances were mainly restricted to second half events in 1968. Made one non scoring appearance for the first team and had a spell out on loan at Doncaster. Seriously injured in a crash at King's Lynn in 1969, losing a finger, but did return to ride in second half events at Long Eaton on his recovery.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
1 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0.00 |
back to index
McARTHUR, Bernard -
Born: Manchester, 13 May 1939
Former Belle Vue junior who came to Owlerton in the early days of the Provincial League in 1960. Scored only three points that season but won a regular place in the side the following year, usually filling a second string or reserve role and picking up 60 points during the league campaign. Returned to Belle Vue in 1962 but soon retired after a succession of niggling injuries and a lack of finance.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
21 | 66 | 68 | 14 | 82 | 4.97 |
back to index
McNAMARA, Peter -
Born: Halifax, West Yorkshire 23 March 1968
Joined Sheffield as a 17 year old in 1985 and doubled up between the Cubs and
spells on loan at Scunthorpe and Milton Keynes. Won a place in the starting line
up in the 1986 side when the BSPA deemed that teams had to contain at least one
British junior rider. Did well to hold his place throughout most of the season,
slightly increasing his assessed three point average. Left Sheffield at the end
of the year but despite riding until 1992, failed to live up to the early promise
he had shown.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
28 | 88 | 60 | 12 | 72 | 3.27 |
back to index
MELBIN, Derrol -
Born: Northam, Australia 29 March 1933
Arrived in Britain in 1960 and soon found himself at Owlerton where, despite the lack
of points, he found himself a folk hero with the Sheffield crowd. His spectacular and
fearless riding style caused him to fall on an all too regular basis and earned him the
nickname of 'Spider'. Unable to win a regular place, he did stay for four years at
Sheffield but only scored 47 league points during that time.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
23 | 66 | 48 | 12 | 60 | 3.64 |
back to index
MENZIES, Andy -
Born: Australia
A pre war Australian international who was in the veteran stages of his career when he joined Sheffield in 1949. Had a decent season at Owlerton and provided sound back up to the heat leaders, scoring 125 points during the year. Andy died in Australia in 1993.
back to index
MINALL, Eric -
Born: England 1933
Began his career at New Cross in 1951 and had spells at Long Eaton and Exeter before retiring in 1953. After over a decade out of the sport he returned in 1965 and rode in one match for the Tigers, scoring 2 points.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
1 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 3 | 3.00 |
back to index
MOGRIDGE, Alan -
Born: London 6 November 1963One of the most entertaining riders
in modern day speedway, Alan had a short spell with Sheffield in 1994 after
leaving Middlesbrough. Made his league debut some 13 years earlier for Wimbledon
and spent the whole of the early part of his career with clubs in the south of
England before moving to Cleveland Park. 'Moggo' rescued a difficult 1994 season,
scoring double figures in his first four matches and winning over the fans with
his never-say-die efforts from the back. Although he could not keep up this form
it was hoped that he would be retained for the 1995 season but, based in the south,
he understandably opted to join Arena Essex. Alan spent 2000 back in the north east
riding for Berwick, but plumped for Swindon in 2001.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
15 | 81 | 128 | 11 | 139 | 6.86 |
back to index
MOLYNUEX, Alan -
Born: Derby, Derbyshire 12 August 1950
Signed by Ray Glover in 1981 as part of an attempt to rebuild the team after the
disasters of 1980. Alan had spent the previous five seasons with Coventry and
although his average had slipped in the year prior to joining the Tigers, he came
with good credentials having been an England international and British Finalist.
The signing did not work out for rider or management as he suffered an early season
injury which knocked his confidence and led to him being relegated to the reserve
berth quite rapidly. Placed on the transfer list late in the season, he ironically
showed his best form but it was not enough to win him a team place for 1982 and he
moved to Long Eaton.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
38 | 142 | 185 | 17 | 202 | 5.69 |
back to index
MONAGHAN, Eric -
Born: Whiteley, Greater Manchester 31 October 1957
Made his league debut for Ellesmere Port in 1979 and stayed with the club until they
closed their doors on the eve of the 1983 season. Eric was handed a chance in Division
One with Sheffield and started the season in the reserve berth, proving to be a
popular - if not high scoring- member of the side. Nicknamed 'Bootsy', his cheery
personality and wholehearted effort made him a well liked figure on the terraces and
although his average hovered just under the 4 point per match figure there was no sign
of the crowd getting on his back. Eric lost his place in the last couple of months of
the season as the management chose to revamp the side but he stayed in the sport as a
rider until 1995 and is currently in charge of the track at one of his former teams,
Stoke.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
33 | 119 | 104 | 14 | 118 | 3.97 |
back to index
MONK, Charlie -
Born: Adelaide, Australia 5 February 1940
Charlie was a dour, publicity shy figure and not the typical Australian who usually
comes to ride on these shores. Nevertheless, he was a rider of the highest order and
won the prestigious Internationale event at Wimbledon in 1965. After spending four
years at Glasgow, Charlie asked for a move and came south to Owlerton in 1968, topping
the averages with an figure a shade over 10 points per match. This was to prove his
only season at Sheffield and he returned to Glasgow the following season. Later went
on to ride for Halifax, Edinburgh and Barrow before retiring in 1978.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
37 | 160 | 391 | 12 | 403 | 10.08 |
back to index
MOORE, Andrew -
Born: Lincoln, Lincolnshire 6 October 1982
Son of former Peterborough second halfer, Richard 'Chippy' Moore, Andrew is one of the
new breed of Sheffield riders on which much hope for the future is pinned. Made his
first team debut at Newcastle in May 1999 and did not let the side down in any of his
appearances for the Tigers. Andrew is expected to use the Conference League in the 2000
season to put pressure on Adam Allott and James Birkinshaw for team places. Andrew
deputised for the injured James Birkinshaw in the latter half of the 2000 season and
did well enough to claim a team place for the 2001 campaign.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
45 | 177 | 155 | 30 | 185 | 4.18 |
back to index
MORAN, Kelly -
Born: Huntingdon Beach, U.S.A. 21 September 1960
One of the most naturally talented riders ever seen, Kelly spent three memorable
years at Sheffield riding with brother Shawn in the league's most spectacular spearhead.
Despite enjoying the 'high life' and having a carefree attitude in his approach to
racing, Kelly was a consistently high scorer in 15 years of British speedway. After
spells with Hull, Birmingham and Eastbourne he spent three seasons concentrating on
the Californian scene before being tempted back to Britain by Maurice Ducker in a
masterstroke which saw him arrive on a reduced 7.5 average in 1986. His initial
season at Owlerton was ended early after he suffered a serious wrist injury in an
off track accident but he returned as good as ever in 1987 to rival Shawn for the
number one slot in the averages. When the Tigers closed at the end of the 1988 season
Kelly moved to Belle Vue but remained a crowd favourite on his visits when the sport
later returned to Sheffield.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
100 | 456 | 960.5 | 62 | 1012.5 | 8.88 |
back to index
MORAN, Shawn -
Born: Lakewood, U.S.A. 19 November 1961
Without doubt Shawn is the greatest and most popular rider to have represented
Sheffield in the post war era. He first appeared on these shores at the end of
the 1979 season, riding in a challenge match at Hull under the pseudonym of David
East before joining the Vikings the following season. When Sheffield promoter Ray
Glover heard that he was unhappy with Hull towards the end of 1980 he stepped in
and bought the Californian for £8000 in one of the best pieces of transfer business
ever. He became number one the following season and topped the averages every year
until the club closed at the end of 1988. During this time he won the World Under
21 Championship, the World Longtrack Championship (with a broken leg) and numerous
World Championship rounds although the big prize of the World Speedway Championship
eluded him. Despite his glorious years at Sheffield the club did not win any
silverware and the Tigers fans had to be content with basking in the glow of
Shawn's individual triumphs. After the closure of Sheffield, Shawn moved to
Belle Vue with Kelly and for a time many Sheffield fans made the journey across
the Pennines to watch the Moran brothers riding for their old rivals. Many were
also at Odsal Stadium in 1990 to see Shawn lose a run of to Per Jonsson for the
World title and it was a dream come true when he rejoined the Tigers in 1994 to
lead the club in the Second Division. Sadly, the return to Owlerton was a nightmare
for Shawn and it was a mark of the bravery of the man to admit that he had lost his
nerve for racing after only a handful of matches. This short period, however, does
not diminish the fans' opinion of the career of Sheffield's all time great speedway
rider.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
308 | 1392 | 3061 | 196 | 3257 | 9.36 |
back to index
MORLEY, Tommy -
Born: Los Angeles, U.S.A. 20 May 1958
One of an influx of Californian riders who came to England in the late 1970's. Whilst
most of them made a success of British League racing, Tommy did not have the best of
luck - arriving in the middle of the 1979 season and having no time to adjust to the
larger British circuits. He suffered a broken wrist during his stay and averaged below
4 points per match in his 17 official fixtures for the club.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
17 | 61 | 46 | 9 | 55 | 3.61 |
back to index
MORTON, Chris -
Born: Davyhulme, Greater Manchester 22 July 1956
Chris had a glorious 18 year career with Belle Vue spanning the years 1973 to 1990.
In this time he won the World Team Cup and the World Pairs for England and the British
Championship in 1983 as well as making seven World Final appearances. When he retired
in 1990 it was widely thought that British speedway had seen the end of the career of
one of it's most loyal servants and it was a major surprise when he agreed to make a
comeback with the Tigers in the middle of the 1993 season. After an understandably shaky
start, Chris started to put together some useful scores and crowned the season by winning
the Northern Riders Championship before retiring for good at the end of the year.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
31 | 158 | 235 | 28 | 263 | 6.66 |
back to index
MORTON, Dave -
Born: Eccles, Greater Manchester 24 September 1953
Elder brother of Chris Morton who only achieved less than Chris due to a terrible
run of injuries early in his career. After serving his apprenticeship with Crewe he
joined Hackney in Division One before moving to Wolverhampton. When he joined Sheffield
in 1981 his career was at a low point and he started the season in the reserve berth but
a move to Owlerton was the start of a run of high scores which propelled him back into
the international reckoning. Dave recorded an 8 point average in his first year at
Sheffield and although he failed to achieve this figure again he remained a steady
middle order rider until his move to Ellesmere Port in 1985.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
170 | 683 | 1064 | 88 | 1152 | 6.75 |
back to index
MUSSON, Richard -
Born: Leeds, West Yorkshire 14 July 1973
Made a spectacular entry into speedway, being plunged straight from junior racing
into Division One with Belle Vue and recorded a string of respectable scores against
world class opposition. It caused a furore in Manchester when he was not named in the
Aces team for 1991 and Sheffield snapped him up on their return to league action.
Promoter Cliff Carr dubbed him the 'Flying Flea' and he overcame a poor start to
turn in some spectacular match winning performances. Richard moved again in 1992
to join Wolverhampton before strangely drifting out of the sport after such a
promising beginning to his career.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
21 | 93 | 84 | 24 | 108 | 4.65 |
back to index
NEW, Charlie -
Born: New Zealand 1927
Auckland based Kiwi who started racing in 1946 in his home town and made his first journey to England in 1950. Joined Belle Vue on his arrival but found it difficult to break into the Aces side and was loaned to Sheffield to gain experience. Charlie finished third in the Tigers' averages that season, scoring 179 points from 27 matches but moved to Coventry for 1951 when the doors closed at Owlerton. He spent 6 years at Brandon and ended his British career at Oxford in 1958 although he continued to ride in New Zealand, winning the national championship in 1960 and 1961. Charlie was born Ray New and always rode under that name in New Zealand.
back to index
NIKOLAJSEN, Sam -
Born: Lokken, Denmark 28 February 1961
Sam made one of the most spectacular debut's in the history of Sheffield Speedway,
picking up a remarkable 14 points as the Tigers pulled off a shock victory at Cradley
in June 1985. He was brought into the side as a mid season replacement for the
struggling Gerald Short and became an instant favourite at Owlerton although it
was impossible to maintain the form he had shown in his first fixture. Sam had
previously ridden for Coventry and at a reported 4' 11" was one of the smallest
riders in the game. Averaged 6.24 for the club as they finished runners up in the
1985 British League and joined Wolverhampton for 1986.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
23 | 84 | 118 | 15 | 133 | 6.33 |
back to index
OLDHAM, Trevor -
Born: Sheffield, South Yorkshire 18 September 1952
Locally based rider who was a regular in second half events at Owlerton in the mid
1970's. Made just one first team appearance for the Tigers, failing to score at
Cradley on July 9th 1977. Trevor also made brief appearances for Workington during
a loan spell with the Comets.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
1 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0.00 |
back to index
OLIVER, Dent -
Born: Crook, County Durham 13 April 1920
Dent began riding in 1945 and signed for Belle Vue after the war had ended. Developed rapidly into an England international and in 1948 he famously scored an 18 point maximum on his home track in a test match against the mighty Australia. After reaching three World Finals he retired from the sport in 1956 before being tempted out of retirement to ride for the Tigers in 1963. He spent two years at Owlerton and scored 138 points although most of these were scored around his home circuits as business commitments often prevented him from riding away and the away fixtures he did ride in brought low scores. After retiring again after a spell at Belle Vue in 1965 he took over as manager of the 'Aces' and led them through their golden years of the early 1970's. Dent sadly died in December 1973.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
29 | 106 | 148 | 26 | 174 | 6.57 |
back to index
ORPWOOD, Peter -
Born: Burton-on-Trent, Staffordshire 3 March 1921
Began riding in grass track events after the war and joined Tamworth in Division Three in 1948. After two seasons with the Midlands club he was signed by the Tigers along with his team mate Bill Dalton for the 1950 season. Showed decent form in his first season at Second Division level and scored 166 points from 25 matches to finish second in the averages with a figure of around 6.5 points per match. This proved to be Peter's only season at Sheffield as he was transferred to Newcastle for 1951.
back to index
OWEN, Taffy -
Born: Anglesey, North Wales 22 November 1936
Taffy made his Sheffield debut in 1965, failing to score in his only appearance
that season. He then settled at Belle Vue and made his name in the early days of
the new Second Division in 1968, leading the Belle Vue 'Colts' to two successive
league championships. After joining Workington in 1970 he occasionally filled in
for the Tigers during injury hit spells and had his longest run in the team in
1975 when he appeared over 20 times that season as cover for the injured Rod Haynes.
Eventually retired in 1977 and ran a speedway spares shop in Manchester for many years.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
27 | 81 | 81 | 8 | 89 | 4.40 |
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PALMER, Tommy -
Born: Maidstone, Kent 27 January 1971
Tommy joined Sheffield from Arena Essex for the start of the 1998 season as third heat
leader. He was fully expected to thrive on the bigger Owlerton circuit and increase his
7 point average whilst giving the club a rider with experience of the smaller southern
tracks. However, the move did not really work out and he spent much of the season in the
reserve berth and lost almost two points on his average. Joined the Isle of Wight for the
1999 season and continues to ride for the Islanders.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
40 | 173 | 183 | 39 | 222 | 5.13 |
back to index
PARKER, Alf -
Born: Castleford, West Yorkshire 21 March 1920
Alf had initially joined the Tigers in 1948 but made only occasional appearances that year before riding slightly more regularly for the club the following season. Transferred to Fleetwood in 1950 and had further spells at Leicester and Stoke before retiring in 1953. Made a comeback to ride for Sheffield in 1960 but was quickly forced to retire again after suffering a heavy fall early in the season.
back to index
PARKER, Dennis -
Born: Birmingham, West Midlands 5 January 1923
Nephew of the former England international and Belle Vue captain Jack Parker who made his league debut for Sheffield in 1947. Scored 22 points for the club that season but was in the early stages of his career and was unable to hold down a regular team berth, spending much of his time in the second halves. Joined Edinburgh in 1948 and spent two seasons with the Monarchs before returning to Belle Vue.
back to index
PARR, Julian -
Born: Huddersfield, West Yorkshire 20 April 1964
Made his name at Scunthorpe where he progressed from being a raw junior to the club's number one in a matter of three seasons. Came to Sheffield in 1984, on loan from the Lincolnshire club, as cover during an injury spell but found the pace of Division One racing a little too hot. Made seven appearances for the Tigers before breaking his ankle and returning to Scunthorpe.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
7 | 19 | 7 | 1 | 8 | 1.68 |
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PATYNEK, Wieslaw -
Born: Dzierzoniow, Poland 15 January 1956
Brought over by promoter Ray Glover with fellow countryman Jan Zabik, Patynek had probably the shortest Sheffield career of all. He made his one and only appearance at Eastbourne, failing to score from two rides, before suffering a serious spinal injury on the Owlerton training track before he could make his home debut.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
1 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0.00 |
back to index
PAULSON, Bob -
Born: Chilworth, Derbyshire 27 March 1942
Loyal club man who spent the whole of his ten year career at Sheffield. Burst onto
the scene in 1965 and was in such a rich vein of form the following year he was selected
for the prestigious Internationale event at Wimbledon. Although 1966 proved to be his
best season, Bob remained a steady middle order scorer until his retirement in 1974 and
spent many years as captain of the Tigers. Scored nearly 2000 points in official fixtures
and was part of the famous cup winning team of 1974. He retired at the end of that season
and was awarded a testimonial the following year. Bob sadly died in the winter of 1982.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
304 | 1236 | 1574 | 265 | 1839 | 5.95 |
back to index
PEARSON, Darren -
Born: Huddersfield, West Yorkshire 26 July 1975
Started his career as a highly rated 16 year old at Bradford in 1991 but his career
failed to really take off to the heights many pundits predicted. Found himself at
Sheffield in 1996 and was given a trial in the reserve berth. Failed to impress,
scoring only five points from three matches before being released. Returned to the
sport in the 2000 season with Newcastle after spending three years in retirement,
and joined the Tigers for the Play-off matches against Swindon deputizing for the
injured Simon Cartwright, scoring just one point from six rides.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
5 | 17 | 6 | 3 | 9 | 2.12 |
back to index
PEDERSEN, Jan O. -
Born: Middelfart, Denmark 9 November 1962
First rode in Britain for Cradley in 1983 but had to be released by the Heathens the
following year to comply with the maximum points limit. Joined the Tigers and proved
to be an immensely popular addition to the side despite suffering an early season
broken arm. It was with a resigned sadness when Jan O. returned to Dudley Wood for
the 1985 season and he quickly became one of the top riders in the World. Eventually
became a deserved World Champion in 1991 but suffered back injuries in a track crash
the following year which ended his career.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
25 | 96 | 130 | 14 | 144 | 6.00 |
back to index
PENDLEBURY, Craig -
Born: Manchester, Greater Manchester 30 January 1951
Long serving Tiger who spent seven years with the club, joining in 1973, eventually moving on to local rivals Halifax in 1980. Craig scored over 1000 points for the club in that time and finished as a heat leader in both 1977 and 1979. Sometimes erratic, he was a very capable performer around Owlerton and could live with the best in the World although it was a different story away from home where his scores were often only of reserve standard. After riding for Halifax for three years Craig spent his final speedway seasons in the Second Division before emigrating to New Zealand after retirement.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
217 | 837 | 1094.5 | 179 | 1273.5 | 6.09 |
back to index
PERSSON, Bernt -
Born: Esklistuna, Sweden 24 June 1946
One of Sweden's best riders of the late 1970's, Bernt had his best years with Cradley in
the early part of the decade and actually finished second in the 1972 World Final after
losing a run off to eventual champion Ivan Mauger. Joined Sheffield during the 1978 season
to form what should have been a potent spearhead with Doug Wyer and Reg Wilson but despite
arriving with an average of over 8 points per match he was unable to reproduce his undoubted
World class form on a consistent basis for the Tigers and his average slipped to under 7. He
was not retained for the 1979 season and his spell with the club proved to be his swan song
in British speedway.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
30 | 124 | 188 | 27 | 215 | 6.94 |
back to index
PLECH, Zenon -
Born: Zwierzyn, Poland 1 January 1953
Another former World Final runner up who joined Sheffield well after his best days had passed.
Looked to be Poland's best chance of World Championship honours in the early 1970's but the
ultimate prize always eluded him and the closest he got was finishing second to that man Mauger
in the 1979 final. At the time Zenon was a heat leader at Hackney and almost led the side to a
shock championship win in 1980. Joined Sheffield during the 1982 season but often rode on
borrowed machinery and recorded a paltry average of 4.95 from 11 matches.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
11 | 38 | 39 | 8 | 47 | 4.95 |
back to index
POWELL, Bill -
Born: Manchester, Greater Manchester 22 May 1944
Belle Vue contracted rider who rode briefly for the Tigers in 1962 whilst struggling to win a
place in the Aces first team. Scored just 7 points for Sheffield during his short stay but
eventually made a name for himself with Belle Vue and rode for the club until 1969. Bill was
eventually forced to retire after suffering head injuries in a crash whilst riding for
Wolverhampton in 1972.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
2 | 7 | 7 | 3 | 10 | 5.71 |
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RASMUSSEN, Flemming -
Born: Assens, Denmark 31 August 1964
Brought into the side by Maurice Ducker as a replacement for the struggling Steve Baker in
July 1985, Flemming was highly rated in Denmark and had represented his country at Under 21 and
Under 23 level. However, he was unable to show any sort of form in England and was released
from the side after scoring only two points in four matches.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
4 | 13 | 2 | 0 | 2 | 0.62 |
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RAVN, Thomas -
Born: Kolding, Denmark 13 December 1974
Thomas first appeared at Owlerton riding against the Tigers for a Danish Select side during
the Euro 1996 football championships being held in the city. His performance was impressive
enough for him to be offered a contract and he made his debut against London in June. Despite
a wealthy background and some immaculate machinery, his performances on the track were
generally disappointing and he returned only a 2.67 average from 14 appearances. Lost his
place in the side two months after his debut and an approach to recall him the following
season was thwarted after it was discovered he had been banned by the Danish authorities
following an on track fight with Norweigian star Rune Holta.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
14 | 51 | 29 | 5 | 34 | 2.67 |
back to index
REDMOND, Lee -
Born: Perth, Western Australia 5 August 1971
The son of Australian promoter Trevor Redmond, Lee started the 2001
season riding for Kings Lynn
until he suffered a broken collar bone. Once recovered and unable to break back into the Knights team he joined the
Tigers as cover
for the injured Scott Smith. Fast starting Lee took a while to regain his match fitness but he celebrated his
maiden maximum in the home clash against Glasgow. His season came to a painful conclusion as he sustained a broken
ankle in the final home match against Newcastle.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
19 | 72 | 73 | 14 | 87 |
4.83 |
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ROBINSON, Tony -
Born: Brighouse, West Yorkshire 18 November 1935
Began riding as a teenager at the Newton Heath training track before forging a career
with the famous Belle Vue Aces in the late 1950's. Joined the Tigers on the advent of
the Provincial League in 1960 and was one of the side's first stars of that era. Top
scored in the 1960 season but the pressure of his haulage business told and his scoring
fell away. This, coupled with a back injury sustained in August 1963 prompted his
retirement. His best moments came when winning the first ever Northern Riders Championships
in 1960 and 1961.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
50 | 190 | 360 | 22 | 382 |
8.04 |
back to index
ROBSON, Guy -
Born: Stockport, Cheshire 22 April 1961
Second halfer at Owlerton who had only one league ride for the Tigers, failing to
score at Coventry on July 26th 1980. Also had spells in the Second Division with
Edinburgh and Workington.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
0.00 |
back to index
ROLFE, Ronnie -
Born: London 1929
Started his career back in 1956, riding in the Southern Area League for the Berkshire
based California 'Poppies'. After spells at Rye House, Ipswich and Cradley, Ronnie joined
the Tigers for the 1961 season and proved to be a reliable second string in the Sheffield
side. He scored 194 points for the club in two seasons before a move to Hackney in 1963.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
36 | 145 | 208 | 27 | 235 |
6.48 |
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ROPER, Tommy -
Born: Bradford, West Yorkshire 6 July 1940
Hard riding Yorkshireman who's career took off with the introduction of the Provincial
League in 1960, riding for his home town club, Bradford. Joined Sheffield in 1962 and
stayed until 1965, proving to be a popular member of the side with the crowd and team
mates alike. Although his best years were spent away from Owlerton he provided solid back
up to riders like Clive Featherby, Jack Kitchen and Ron Bagley and went on to win
championship medals for Halifax and Belle Vue. Tommy supplemented his speedway career
by running a hairdressing salon in West Yorkshire and became a successful and wealthy
businessman after retiring from speedway in 1974.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
45 | 188 | 304 | 29 | 333 |
7.09 |
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SAUNDERS, Brett -
Born: Sydney, Australia 9 November 1961
One of the first riders signed by Ray Glover when he took over the side in 1980,
Brett was initially loaned out to Workington then Berwick whilst making only brief
appearances for his parent track. Eventually signed on a permanent basis by Edinburgh
and spent over a decade with the Scottish side before rejoining the Tigers in 1993.
Brett was plainly unhappy about the effect that racing at Owlerton was having on his
machinery and he quickly moved to Middlesbrough before retiring at the end of the season.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
9 | 39 | 48 | 4 | 52 |
5.33 |
back to index
SCHLEIN, Rory -
Born: Darwin, Australia 1 September 1984
Rory was pressed into action for the injury hit Prowlers against Somerset in
2001 and
within weeks was filling in for the Tigers as well. He rode in a number of Premier Trophy meetings, including
both legs of the final scoring paid 9 in the Tigers 56 point aggregate win over Swindon. His only league outing
for us was in the away match at Stoke. Rory signed for the Edinburgh Monarchs in September but continued to ride
for the Prowlers scoring 19 in our narrow defeat at Rye House.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
1 | 3 | 1 | 0 | 1 |
1.33 |
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SEMMENS, Bruce -
Born: Sancreed, Cornwall 27 December 1914
Controversial and hard riding Cornishman who was a cult hero in the immediate post war years at Owlerton but upset many an opponent with his on track tactics. Earned a nickname of 'Have-a-go-Semmo' with his fearless style of riding and it was only a matter of time before he attracted the attention of the big name clubs, eventually joining Belle Vue in a big money move during the 1949 season. However, his time with the Aces was not a success and his career took a downward turn after leaving Sheffield. Bruce died on 4 September 1988.
back to index
SHARPLES, Ken -
Born: Clayton-le-Moors, Lancashire 15 May 1924
A legend at Belle Vue where he spent many years both as rider and team manager, Ken was an England international and a major star in the 1950's and 1960's. His Owlerton career was brief, riding for the Tigers in a loan spell in 1948 before he was established with the Aces, scoring just 19 points in league racing for the club. Ken was tragically killed in a road accident in Manchester in July 1967.
back to index
SHEARER, Bert -
Born: Motherwell, Scotland 19 April 1916
Scottish junior who scored one point for the Tigers during the 1946 season.
back to index
SHORT, Gerald -
Born: Kidderminster, Hereford & Worcester 1 October 1955
Gerald was a vastly experienced grass track rider who had won the European Championship
in 1979 but delayed a serious speedway career until 1983 when he was aged 27. After
trials at Owlerton he won a team berth towards the end of the season and was named in
the starting line up for 1984. However, a crash on the first lap of the season at
Coventry left him with a serious broken leg and put him out for most of the year.
Made 18 appearances in 1985 but lost his team place and was loaned to Long Eaton in
mid season, finishing his career at Station Road in 1988.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
31 | 93 | 58 | 8 | 66 | 2.84 |
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SMITH, Col -
Born: Rushden, Northamptonshire 23 December 1938
Coventry junior who was loaned to the Tigers in 1961 to gain experience. Showed
flashes of good form in scoring 41 points during the season and had later outings
for Bradford and Leicester before returning to Brandon. Never really rose above
reserve status but retains a keen interest in the sport and can often be seen at
veteran riders display races.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
16 | 56 | 44 | 8 | 52 | 3.71 |
back to index
SMITH, Scott -
Born: Sheffield, South Yorkshire 29 September 1973
Locally born rider who was mascot at the club in his childhood days. When Scott reached
the legal racing age Sheffield had closed its doors to speedway and he found himself on
the books of Belle Vue before joining Cradley in 1990 where he made his league debut.
Made slow but steady progress in Division One with the Heathens for six years before
signing for his home town team on the eve of the 1996 season. Scott has spent his best
years in the sport to date at Owlerton, particularly when the club rode in the Second
Division, proving to be a heat leader and often unbeatable on his home circuit. After
a difficult year in 1998 he returned to form the following season, playing a major role
in the Championship winning side and was the main reason for the Fours final success at
Peterborough the same year. Squeezed out of the side by the points limit, Scott joined
Berwick for the 2000 season, but returned to the fold in 2001. Having refound his form
Scott injured his knee ligaments in a first bend tangle in the home match against Exeter.
Riding through the pain barrier Scott soldiered through the rest of that meeting and
featured in the away win at the County Ground before a first heat spill on the Isle of
Wight brought on a trip to hospital and the news that his season was finished.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
151 | 716 | 1255 | 109 | 1364 | 7.62 |
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STANCL, Jiri (George) -
Born: Prague, Czech Republic 19 August 1975
After a long running battle with the sport's authorities, the Sheffield promotion
finally secured a work permit for George to ride in the British League in 1994. Proved
to be an immediate hit with the fans with his battling style of riding and friendly
personality, recording an average of over 7.5 points per match in his first season.
When the two leagues amalgamated in 1995, George stayed with the club and continued
his improvement, looking an outstanding future prospect. However, at the end of the
season he requested a transfer to a smaller track to assist his development and
Wolverhampton quickly stepped in to sign him. The move has not brought the expected
results for George and he has shown little improvement in his average since his days
at Owlerton.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
57 | 293 | 468 | 56 | 524 | 7.15 |
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STEAD, Garry -
Born: Holmfirth, West Yorkshire 5 January 1972
Began his career with Stoke in 1990 and later rode for Newcastle and Bradford before
moving to Owlerton in 1996. Spent just one season at Sheffield and after a difficult
start when he struggled to find his form he had a superb second half to the season.
Averaged 6.69 to finish as third heat leader behind Sam Ermolenko and Robbie Kessler
but returned to Bradford the following season as the leagues were restructured and the
Tigers opted for Division Two. Garry now rides for local rivals, Hull.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
38 | 195 | 299 | 27 | 326 | 6.69 |
back to index
STEAD, Ian M. -
Born: Mirfield, West Yorkshire, 25 October 1968
Brother of Paul Stead who was signed by the Tigers in 1987 after the closure of Birmingham
for whom he had ridden for two years. Filled a reserve berth in the 1987 season, showing
promising form with an average of just under 5 points per match and retained his place
for the following year. Unfortunately 1988 brought little improvement in Ian's scoring
and he moved to Stoke when the Tigers closed at the end of the year. After one season at
Loomer Road Ian suffered a serious neck injury whilst riding a moto cross bike and was
forced to retire from the sport.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
85 | 308 | 300 | 58 | 358 | 4.65 |
back to index
STEAD, Paul -
Born: Mirfield, West Yorkshire 25 December 1962
Junior at Sheffield in the early 1980's who looked at one stage as if he was going to be
a major asset for the Tigers with some impressive displays in the first team. However,
his Division One career did not really take off and he settled in the Second Division to
become a heat leader in spells at Long Eaton, Birmingham, Newcastle and Stoke. Won a
Division Two championship medal with Long Eaton in 1984.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
29 | 86 | 56 | 8 | 64 | 2.98 |
back to index
STEAD, Simon -
Born: Sheffield, South Yorkshire 25 April 1982
Despite being born in the city, Simon chose to sign for Peterborough on reaching the age
of 15 and helped their reserve side, the Thundercats, win the Conference League in 1997.
Rode full time for the Panthers the following year, claiming another championship medal
but decided on another season in the Second Division when Peterborough elected to ride
in the top flight in 1999. The signing of Simon by Sheffield caused something of a stir
as he replaced crowd favourite Derrol Keats in the proposed starting line up for 1999 but
any reservations the fans may have had were soon dispelled by a series of stunning
performances as he lifted his average to 7.76 and remarkably claimed another league
winners medal. Named as third heat leader for the 2000 season Simon continued his
development and it was quite a surprise when he elected to stay with Sheffield in the
Premier League for 2001. Having won the British U21 Championship at Wolverhampton (at
the expense of a broken finger) Simon was called up to replace Carl Stonehewer riding
for Great Britain in their big win against Denmark at Wolverhampton.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
111 | 498 | 984 | 87 | 1071 | 8.60 |
back to index
STEMEN, Rob -
Born: Den Haag, Holland 1 September 1966
Dutch international and national champion in 1992 who had trails at Arena Essex and
Long Eaton before joining the Tigers in 1995. His signing proved to be a complete
disaster as he made his debut at home to Reading on the 3rd of August and trailed
in hopelessly last in all his three rides. He was released after this one fixture
and never appeared in British League racing again.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
1 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0.00 |
back to index
STEVENS, Adrian -
Born: Grantham, Lincolnshire 15 July 1970
Joined King's Lynn as a virtual unknown in 1987 and went straight into the Norfolk
side's line up at reserve. Signed for the Tigers at the start of the 1988 season
whilst still only 17, forming a reserve partnership with Ian Stead, and whilst he
understandably struggled at times he finished the season with an average of just
under 4 points per match. Returned to King's Lynn the following year but his career
strangely petered out and he retired from the sport in 1990.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
44 | 132 | 96 | 32 | 128 | 3.88 |
back to index
STONEHEWER, Carl -
Born: Manchester, Greater Manchester 16 May 1972
Carl began his career with his local team, Belle Vue, in 1988 but only reached star
status whilst riding for Long Eaton some seven years later. When the Invaders closed
at the end of the 1988 season Stoney was quickly snapped up by the Tigers to become
the club's new number one. Proved to be a fantastic signing for the Tigers, topping
the averages and providing some fantastic on track entertainment to become a crowd
favourite. Some of his antics, especially chasing Newport's Swede, Anders Henriksson,
with a spade after a first bend crash will long be remembered. It was a shock when it
was decided that Carl would be replaced by Sean Wilson for the 1999 season but it was
a deal which eventually proved to suit all parties as Carl became a cult hero in his
new status as Workington captain and Wilson led the Tigers to the league title. Now a
Grand Prix rider and regular England international, Stoney will always be a favourite
at Owlerton, for whichever team he represents.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
40 | 213 | 513 | 16 | 529 | 9.93 |
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TAYLOR, Glyn -
Born: Cardiff, South Glamorgan 24 August 1953
Son of the former Australian international Chum Taylor, Glyn was born in Cardiff
whilst his father was riding for the Welsh side but always represented Australia at
international level. Joined Sheffield in 1993, twenty years after making his first
league appearances on these shores. Those two decades were mainly spent racing outside
the British League and he was only signed as a stop gap replacement for the departed
David Blackburn. However, Glyn produced some heart warming performances which endeared
him to the Owlerton crowd and he ended the season with an average of just under 5 points
per match from 11 fixtures. Returned for a short spell in 1994 and continued to ride
until 1997 when he suffered back injuries in a crash at Hull.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
14 | 70 | 64 | 16 | 80 |
4.57 |
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TENNANT, Bernard -
Born: Manchester, Greater Manchester
Rode briefly at Sheffield in 1947, scoring 1 point for the club in league matches.
Also had outings for Wombwell that season and later at Coventry and Poole but was
better known as being the announcer at Belle Vue up until his death in a car accident
on 30 June 1972.
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TURNER, Terry -
Born: Barnsley, South Yorkshire 3 March 1934
Former road racer who began racing speedway at Sheffield in 1960 with his great friend,
Phil Hattersley. Had outings for the Tigers in 1960 and 1961 but was not a regular in
the side, spending most of his time in the second halves. Retired through ill health
early in 1962 and did not come back to the sport despite offers from former World
Champion Peter Craven to have trials at New Cross in 1963. Terry continued to be
active in motor sport and raced Formula Ford cars in the 1960's and 1970's.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
8 | 17 | 9 | 2 | 11 |
2.59 |
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TYRVAINEN, Olli -
Born: Varkaus, Finland 11 January 1960
One of Finland's top riders of the 1980's who joined the Tigers at the end of the
1988 season, just before the club closed. Olli had been at Bradford for most of that
season but ended the year with a flourish at Owlerton and expressed a desire to stay
for the 1989 season. The closure of the club scuppered these chances and Olli sat out
of British speedway in 1989 although he did manage to reach his only World Final that
year. He is now based in Britain and is currently team manager at Eastbourne.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
3 | 13 | 16 | 2 | 18 |
5.54 |
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ULPH, Stuart -
Born: Rotherham, South Yorkshire 10 September 1943
Rode in the second halves at Owlerton in the late sixties and early seventies in
the same period as Doug Wyer and Reg Wilson were starting their careers. Loaned to
Doncaster in 1969, Stuart recorded an average of 3.73 from 29 matches for the
Stallions and made two appearances in Tigers colours in 1970, scoring two points.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
2 | 5 | 2 | 1 | 3 |
2.40 |
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VALENTINE, Bob -
Born: Newcastle, Australia 19 April 1940
Despite being an experienced motorcyclist, Bob was a late starter to speedway, having
his first rides at the Morriset circuit in Australia in 1969. Came to England the
following year and joined Sheffield who loaned him to Workington to gain experience.
He was an immediate hit at Derwent Park and recorded an average of over 9 points per
match in his first season which earned him a full time position at Owlerton in 1971.
A steady first full season in Division One saw him average over 6 and this figure
steadily increased until he took over as number one at the club in 1973. An average
of just under 10 points and a cup winners medal saw Bob have his best season in 1974
but he was taken away by the Rider Control Committee to join Coventry in 1975. Further
spells at Birmingham and Cradley saw a decline in his scoring and he returned to
Australia in retirement at the end of the 1977 season.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
148 | 580 | 1057 | 116 | 1173 |
8.09 |
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VENABLES, Shawn -
Born: Vancouver, Canada 12 March 1969
One of the few Canadian riders to ride in the British League in modern times, Shawn
had his initial outings in this country riding for Hackney in 1988 before spells at
Middlesbrough and Belle Vue. He had been an impressive visitor to Owlerton on occasions
with the Aces and looked a good signing when he joined the Tigers for the start of the
1994 season. The start of this season was a disaster for the club but Shawn was one of
the few relative successes and was even made captain for a short time after the retirement
of Shawn Moran. However, a poor mid season run of scores led to him being axed and he was
replaced by Robbie Kessler. Apart from a short spell at Buxton the same year, Shawn
has not since ridden in Britain.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
20 | 94 | 85 | 15 | 100 |
4.25 |
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WALMSLEY, John -
Born: Preston, Lancashire 29 October 1962
A former moto cross rider who was the top junior at Owlerton in the early
1980's. Never made the step up into regular league racing and made only a
handful of first team appearances in 1983 and 1984.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
5 | 13 | 5 | 3 | 8 |
2.46 |
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WALSH, David -
Born: Sowerby Bridge, West Yorkshire 29 August 1963
A product of the Sheffield Training Track, David progressed quickly from
being a raw novice to a rider of undoubted potential, winning his first
team place in 1983. After periods on loan at Second Division tracks he was
called up to ride a full season in Tigers colours in 1986 but was allowed
to move to Cradley the following season. David went on to ride most
notably for Berwick, Glasgow, Stoke and most recently Hull. In the initial
years of the combined Premier League in 1995 his average was above 8 points
per match in the highest company and he reached the British Final that same season.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
45 | 149 | 123 | 27 | 150 |
4.03 |
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WASDEN, Dennis -
Born: Sheffield, South Yorkshire 23 August 1948
A home grown product who was a regular second halfer in the mid 1960's,
making his first appearance in the Tigers' first team in 1966. Dennis made
only seven appearances between then and 1968 but was a solid middle order
performer in the Second Division with Ipswich, Doncaster, Long Eaton and
Hull. Dennis sadly died in the 1980's at an early age.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
7 | 11 | 4 | 0 | 4 |
1.45 |
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WATSON, Cliff -
A pre war rider on the northern circuits who made an unsuccessful return
to the sport with Sheffield when racing resumed in 1946. Cliff scored four
points that season but was not seen in speedway again. Not to be confused
with the Australian international of the same name who rode during that
period for West Ham and Harringay.
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WHITAKER, Gordon -
Born: Halifax, West Yorkshire 12 February 1966
Joined his home town team, Halifax at the age of 16 and made his debut for
the Dukes the following year. After spells at Edinburgh, Bradford and
Belle Vue Gordon joined Sheffield for the start of the 1988 season, making
8 appearances for an average of 3.60, before losing his team place.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
8 | 30 | 23 | 4 | 27 |
3.60 |
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WHITE, Jack D. -
Born: Rotherham, South Yorkshire 15 July 1920
Jack started riding before the war at Belle Vue but racing was stopped due
to the conflict with Germany before his career could get off the ground.
When hostilities ended Jack joined the Tigers and stayed with the club for
three years. During that time he filled a second string role behind the
more illustrious heat leaders Allott, Bateman and Stan Williams, recording
over 200 points for the club. After leaving Owlerton at the end of the
1948 season Jack's career took a downward turn and he retired from the
sport two years later after spells at Coventry and Liverpool.
back to index
WHITE, Phil -
Born: Sheffield, South Yorkshire 25 February 1956
Began riding in 1973 and was instantly recognisable in second halves at
Owlerton some years later with hair that almost reached his saddle. After
serving his apprenticeship in the Second Division with Scunthorpe, where
he became the club's number one, Phil moved up to ride full time with the
Tigers in 1981 sporting a much needed haircut. Showed great promise by
recording an average of nearly six points per match that year but by 1983
he had got into something of a rut and this figure only just crept above
the six point mark. A resulting transfer request saw him move to Newcastle
where his scoring declined further and in 1985 he joined Birmingham in
Division Two and retired two years later.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
189 | 718 | 862 | 144 | 1006 |
5.60 |
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WILLIAMS, Len -
Born: Leicester, Leicestershire 15 December 1921
Len had a meteoric rise to fame at Owlerton, making his first appearance
in 1947 and reaching heat leader standard the following year. Stayed with
the Tigers until their closure early in the 1951 season, having chalked up
nearly 900 league points, before moving to Leicester. After six years with
his home town team Len hung up his leathers before being tempted out of
retirement by the return of the Tigers in the 1960 Provincial League.
Found the pace a little hot and quit again, this time for good, the
following year.
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WILLIAMS, Stan -
Born: Leicester, Leicestershire 1917
Stan was Sheffield's first real post war hero, topping the score chart in
1946 with 192 league points and although he couldn't maintain that level
of scoring he remained a popular figure within the team until the end of
the 1949 season bagging a total of 857 league points. Prior to the 1950 season
he was released by new promoter, Alice Hart, who allowed him to move on to
Coventry with whom he spent a further four years before retiring.
back to index
WILSON, Brian -
Born: Sheffield, South Yorkshire 5 February 1929
Brian was nicknamed 'Baby Face' and was indeed the youngest member of the
team in 1946 when he was aged only 17 years old. Scored only 3 points for
the club before joining Belle Vue in 1947 and being farmed out on loan to
Birmingham. Brian roamed around the lower leagues until 1951 when he
announced his retirement but, nine years later, came out of retirement
with the intention of riding for the re-formed Tigers in 1960. However,
before he could make his debut Brian was injured in a road accident in the
Sheffield suburb of Oughtibridge and comeback plans were shelved.
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WILSON, Reg -
Born: Sheffield, South Yorkshire 28 January 1948
A Tiger through and through, having spent 18 years at Owlerton as a rider
and has been full time team manager since 1992. Reg made his debut in 1969
and after loan spells at Doncaster, Workington and Hull to gain experience
he was called up to ride full time for Sheffield in 1972. Along with Doug
Wyer, Reg held the team together through the late 1970's and took over as
captain following the retirement of Bob Paulson at the end of the 1974 cup
winning season. Broken legs sustained in 1975 and 1980 were the low points
in Reg's career and he struggled to recover form after the second injury,
slipping to second string status for the first time in years. A short loan
spell at Newcastle in 1984 was the end of an unbroken era lasting over a
decade but although he returned to a Tigers race jacket later in the year
it was clear that Reg's Division One days were numbered. He then moved to
Birmingham in Division Two for the 1985 season and rode for two more years
although he did help out his old team in emergencies until 1986. After
taking over as team manager Reg led the side to their first ever
championship win in 1999 and remains one of the most popular riders ever
to have ridden for the club and the all time top points scorer for the
Tigers.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
469 | 1893 | 3211.5 |
299 | 3510.5 |
7.42 |
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WILSON, Sean -
Born: York, North Yorkshire 7 November 1969
Sean burst onto the scene in 1986 as a 16 year old making a series of
spectacular outings for the Tigers where reputations counted for nothing,
beating the likes of Jimmy Nilsen and Tommy Knudsen at the peak of their
careers. After spending three years at Owlerton and establishing himself
in the main body of the team, Sean was forced to move following the
closure of the club at the end of the 1988 season. After spells at
Coventry, King's Lynn and Bradford, Sean crashed in Australia and suffered
serious back injuries which kept him out of the saddle for the whole of
the 1994 season and at one stage threatened to end his racing days.
However, he returned to action with the Dukes in 1995 but his career took
a downward trend in 1997 and 1998 when he was the victim of the points
limit, being unable to win a team place at the start of each season, and
poor form which saw his point scoring hit unprecedented lows. Sean had
been a target for the Tigers in 1998 but the sport's governing body
refused him permission to move down to the Premier League and the club
eventually signed Carl Stonehewer. The promotion, however, kept faith with
Sean and in 1999 he was signed as a replacement for 'Stoney' and despite a
lot of skeptical noises about him being past his best he proved the
doubters wrong with a stunning season, topping the league averages,
winning the Premier League Riders Championship and leading the club to
championship success. Sean continued in his rich vein of Premier League form
with Sheffield in 2000, also riding for Opole in the Polish second League and
Vastervik in the Swedish Elite League.
He improved his average in a successful 2001 campaign in which scored a magnificent
12 points at Vastervik to qualify for the Grand Prix challenge meeting
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
208 | 985 | 1894 | 115 | 2009 |
8.16 |
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WINSTANLEY, Jack -
Born: Chorley, Lancashire 2 November 1926
Jack started riding at his local track, Wigan, after the war and first
rode for the Tigers in 1950, scoring 84 points, before moving to Long
Eaton the following year. After retiring at the end of the 1952 season
Jack was tempted back into the saddle in 1960 to ride for the Tigers when
they returned to the sport to compete in the new Provincial League. Jack's
experience proved valuable as he helped the side re-establish themselves
in the sport and in 1961 he finished as second top scorer to Clive
Featherby in the side. Moved to Bradford during the 1962 season and
finally retired after a spell at Nelson in 1968.
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WIREBRAND, Bo -
Born: Vetlanda, Sweden 2 March 1946
Bo rode at Poole and Newport in the early seventies but had been out of
the British League for four seasons when he was signed by the Tigers in
1978. At the age of 32 he was probably past his best but as a vastly
experienced rider and a full Swedish international he was signed as a
potential second string with the hope he would perhaps push for a heat
leader berth. Things did not work out for Bo at Owlerton and he was sacked
after a run of poor scores which brought at average of 3.35 from 12
official matches. Bo was later team manger of Sweden.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
12 | 37 | 28 | 3 | 31 |
3.35 |
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WOFFINDEN, Rob -
Born: Scunthorpe, Lincolnshire 27 March 1962
A much travelled and controversial rider who is a great friend of current
promoter Neil Machin. After starting his career at his home town track in
1978 he took on something of a nomadic career after leaving the Stags,
remaining a competent heat leader or second string in the lower flight.
Banned form the sport after testing positive for cannabis in 1990 and it
was a surprise when he was tempted back into the saddle in 1993 to ride
for Sheffield but put in some stirring performances to record an average
of over 5 points per match. 'Woffy' had another short spell with the
Tigers in 1994 before emigrating to Australia. Father of 2013 World Champion
Tai Woffinden, Rob sadly died from cancer in February 2010.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
41 | 183 | 199 | 31 | 230 |
5.03 |
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WOLSTENHOLME, David -
Born: Sheffield, South Yorkshire 30 July 1973
Bought from Hackney by money raised by the Supporters Club, David was an
excellent junior in the early 1990's but rarely translated this form into
first team fixtures. Made only three official appearances in 1991 but was
given a place in the starting line up for the following season. Lost his
team place early in the year after a poor run of form and drifted away
from the scene.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
4 | 12 | 4 | 1 | 5 |
1.67 |
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WOLSTENHOLME, Simon -
Born: Sheffield, South Yorkshire 25 January 1971
Signed by the Tigers from Arena Essex by Cliff Carr when he revived the
side in 1991 and was given the number 6 race jacket in the starting line
up. Simon struggled with his machinery and found life difficult around
Owlerton. losing his place to Mark Hepworth after only a handful of league
matches. Simon has kept active on the speedway scene and currently rides
for Conference League, Rye House.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
3 | 7 | 7 | 1 | 8 |
4.57 |
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WOLTER, Mirko -
Born: Teterow, Germany 3 June 1976
Mirko was introduced into the team in the middle of a difficult 1996
season which saw the Tigers racing in the combined Premier League. After
just three appearances he suffered a punctured lung in a track crash in
Germany and missed the next two months. An average of 3.48 was ideal for
the following season when the Tigers found themselves back in the Second
Division and Mirko started 1997 in a heat leader role alongside Robbie
Kessler and Scott Smith. Had a great first full season, recording an
average only a shade under 8 points per match and becoming a real crowd
pleaser at Owlerton with some forceful riding. Mirko was lost to the
German army for the following season and surprisingly has not been tempted
back to the British League despite winning the German Championship in
1999.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
35 | 169 | 261 | 40 | 301 |
7.12 |
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WOODCOCK, Freddie -
Junior rider at Owlerton in the late 1940's who made only sporadic
appearances for the first team in the 1948 and 1949 seasons, scoring 4
league points.
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WYER, Doug -
Born: Nottingham, Nottinghamshire 16 August 1947
Without doubt one of the greatest riders ever to have ridden for the
Tigers. Doug was a home grown product who developed through the Training
School and second halves into the team, via loan spells at Doncaster and
Berwick where he became a major star in the Second Division. In 1972 Doug
was called up to ride full time for the Tigers and after being a part of
the 1974 cup winning side, took over as number one in 1975 following the
injury to Reg Wilson. For five successive seasons Doug averaged over 9
points per match until an injury blighted 1979 saw his scoring slip back
slightly. The decline continued in 1980 and the following year he was part
of a major reshuffle in the team and he was transferred to local rivals
Halifax. Doug spent four more years in the top flight before dropping down
into Division Two with Birmingham, then Edinburgh, and was only forced to
retire after suffering a badly broken leg in a crash at Middlesbrough in
1988. Doug scored nearly 3000 points for the Tigers and was only the
second post-war Sheffield rider to reach a World Final, finishing seventh
on the big day in Katowice, Poland in 1976.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
332 | 1477 | 2722.5 | 139 | 2861.5 | 7.75 |
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ZABIK, Jan -
Born: Kielp, Poland 1 January 1946
Stockily built Jan was 34 when he joined the Tigers in 1980 and, although
he was hardly a signing for the future, he did prove to be a popular
member of the side in the nightmare campaign in which the Tigers picked up
the wooden spoon. Jan was involved in a rider/coach role and although he
averaged only 4.37, he did include a paid maximum in his points return.
His average was too low for him to obtain a work permit to return the
following season.
Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
26 | 97 | 92 | 14 | 106 | 4.37 |
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