Who's Who of SHEFFIELD SPEEDWAYSheffield supporter Matt Jackson has provided me with this indexed list of every Sheffield rider. Statistics include matches up to the end of the 2000 season and do not include the 1946-50 period as these will take a lot of researching. Matt would like me to add that he has concentrated initially on the post war period, so Clem Beckett fans will have to be patient!
Finished second to Chris Louis in the 1990 World Under-21 Final, with 1999 World Champion Tony Rickardsson in
third. He was spotted by promoter Neil Machin racing in Australia and, when he signed for the Tigers in 1993,
René became the first rider from the old Soviet Union to race for a British club. Failed to obtain a
work permit for the following season but returned in 1995 when he married a British girl. Continued to ride
for the Tigers until 1998, before joining Stoke in 1999. Now living in the city, René could beat the
best on his day but often lost form when low on confidence. René was loaned to local rivals Hull for
2000, and joined Edinburgh (briefly) at the start of 2001.
| Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
| 146 | 695 | 929 | 115 | 1044 | 6.01 |
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ADORJAN, Zoltan - Born: Debrecen, Hungary 15 November 1961
'Zolly' joined the Tigers in their troubled season of 1995 when the two leagues
amalgamated. After using guests in the early part of the season due to lack of quality
riders, the promotion scoured the continent and signed the many times Hungarian champion
as the new number one. 'Zolly' proved very popular with the fans despite failing to
re-produce his World class continental form. Had another spell with the club in the
second half of 1996. A World Finalist in 1985,89,90 and 98.
| Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
| 33 | 172 | 266 | 29 | 295 | 6.87 |
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AIREY, Jim - Born: Earlswood, Australia 19 August 1941
One of Sheffield's all time great riders who joined the club from Wolverhampton in 1969.
Had three wonderful years at Owlerton and became the first post war Sheffield rider to reach
the World Final, in 1971. Was an out and out number one with an average of over 10.50 per
match in both 1970 and 71. Shocked the club by quitting British speedway at the peak of his
career in the winter of 1971 although he continued to ride occasionally in Australia.
| Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
| 112 | 492 | 1272 | 17 | 1289 | 10.48 |
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ALLOTT, Adam - Born: Stockport,
Cheshire 19 March 1983
Third generation of the Allott family to race for the Tigers. Adam is the son of Nicky
Allott and the grandson of Guy. Began his career as a 15 year old with Buxton in 1998,
combined with second half races at Owlerton. Broke into the Sheffield team in 1999 following
the injury to Peter Boast and scored some important points to help the Tigers to their league
title win. Adam rode as reserve for the Tigers throughout 2000 maintaining a steady improvement
and also spearheaded the Prowlers on their way to becoming the Conference League champions.
| Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
| 65 | 238 | 201 | 56 | 257 | 4.32 |
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ALLOTT, Guy - Born: Penistone, South Yorkshire 19 September 1922Started his career at Sheffield in 1949 and had two season at Owlerton before the Tigers
closed in 1950. Continued riding throughout the fifties, most notably with Cradley, Bradford
and Leicester before rejoining the Tigers in 1961. Guy was a heat leader at Owlerton when he
fell from the tractor on a victory parade in 1962 and suffered severe hand injuries which meant
he had to retire. A renowned engine tuner, Guy owns a motorcycle shop in Buxton.
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ALLOTT, Nicky - Born - Buxton, Derbyshire 15 December 1954Nicky had a thirteen year career in speedway, most of which was spent either at Sheffield or on loan at various Second Division tracks. His best year with the Tigers was in 1978 when he averaged over 6.5 points per match but he found most of his success in the lower leagues, notably with Scunthorpe in the early 1980's where he was a heat leader and club captain. Can be seen in the Owlerton pits every Thursday, assisting son Adam.
| Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
| 105 | 357 | 388 | 36 | 424 | 4.75 |
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ALLOTT, Tommy - Born: Denby Dale, West Yorkshire 17 May 1909Rode pre war with West Ham, Belle Vue and Norwich before joining the Tigers
when racing resumed in 1946. Tommy was the first major star of the post war years
and was a regular double figure scorer both home and away. He spent five years
with Sheffield before the club pulled out of the league, before moving to Edinburgh
then Liverpool, where he finished his racing career in 1953. Tommy passed away in
May 1975.
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ATKIN, Tony - Born: Chester, Cheshire 8 April 1966Wholehearted rider who proved popular during his short spell with the Tigers in 1996,
joining the club from Bradford. Tony found most of his success on the shale with Stoke in
the late 1990's but is more widely known as an accomplished grass track rider. His greatest
success on the shale came when winning a cup winners medal with Bradford in 1995.
| Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
| 17 | 68 | 48 | 14 | 62 | 3.65 |
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BAGLEY, Ron - Born: Ipswich, Suffolk 14 February 1937Rode for the Tigers between 1962 and 1964 after joining the club from Plymouth.
Scored over 500 points for the club in his first two seasons, despite the long weekly
journey from his Ipswich home. Lost form in 1964 and moved on at the end of the season.
Later rode for Coventry and his hometown club and was team manager of the Witches
during their all-conquering spell of the mid 70's.
| Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
| 72 | 278 | 394.5 | 64 | 458.8 | 6.60 |
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BAGSHAW, Karl - Born: Chesterfield, Derbyshire 6 May 1981
Began racing at the Sheffield training school in 1994. A regular junior at Owlerton,
Karl has made one league appearance for the Tigers to date, scoring three paid four at
Stoke in 1998. Would benefit from a run in a Conference League side.
| Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
| 1 | 3 | 3 | 1 | 4 | 5.33 |
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BAKER, Steve - Born: Adelaide, Australia 25 June 1963
Came to Britain in 1981 to join Halifax and won the European Junior Championship two years later. Joined Sheffield in March 1985 for a reported £11,000 which did not prove to be money well spent as Baker suffered a complete loss of form and was loaned to King's Lynn mid season. This proved to be his last season in Britain as he spent the next three years riding in the German Bundesliga.
| Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
| 23 | 73 | 59 | 18 | 77 | 4.22 |
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BALES, Billy - Born: Norwich, Norfolk 6 June 1929
Pint sized Billy came to Sheffield towards the end of a long and illustrious career which saw him represent his country and reach the 1955 World Final at Wembley. Spent 13 years with his home town team, the Norwich 'Stars', before moving to Owlerton in 1965 when Norwich closed. Rode five years with the Tigers before retiring at the end of the 1969 season.
| Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
| 176 | 610 | 837 | 104 | 941 | 6.17 |
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BARGH, David - Born: Martinborough, New Zealand 14 March 1962
When the Tigers made a disaterous start to the 1982 season, promoter Ray Glover turned
to sign Bargh who had spent four years in the lower league with Newcastle and was looking
for a berth in the top flight. Proved to be a popular member of the side and was second
in the averages to Shawn Moran in both 1982 and 83. When the Tigers appeared to be moving
down a league in 1984 David rejoined Newcastle and did not ride for Sheffield again despite
continuing to live in the city for many years.
| Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
| 73 | 308 | 491 | 44 | 535 | 6.95 |
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BARNEY, Ian - Born: Stamford, Lincolnshire 15 February 1961
Ian spent most of his career at Peterborough where he won the National League Riders
Championship in 1984. Came to Owlerton in 1991 when the Tigers joined the Second Division
after two years in the wilderness and, despite his best years having passed, he achieved
something of a cult hero status with some inspired performances. Unlucky to lose his
place when Lars Gunnestad came to Owlerton, he returned to Peterborough and retired
in 1994.
| Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
| 13 | 57 | 97 | 10 | 107 | 7.51 |
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BARTLETT, Greg - Born: Perth, Australia 9 September 1969
A former moto cross rider who joined Sheffield in 1994 with little speedway experience,
Greg made rapid strides to become the club's number one by mid 1995 when the two leagues
had amalgamated. Produced some fine performances to beat some of the world's best riders,
especially around Owlerton, and it was a major disappointment when he decided not to return
for the 1996 season. Continues to race occasionally in Perth.
| Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
| 80 | 408 | 607 | 74 | 681 | 6.68 |
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BATEMAN, Tommy - Born: Lincolnshire 30 December 1909
Rode pre-war for Hackney, Lea Bridge and Nottingham and was one of Sheffield's heat
leaders when racing resumed in 1946. Always unlucky with injuries, Tommy spent four
years at Owlerton before moving to Newcastle for the 1950 season. His career was ended
that year when he broke a thigh in a crash at Edinburgh. Died in 1993 at the age of 83
years.
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BATTLE, Steve - Born: Sheffield, South Yorkshire 11 May 1974
Locally based junior who made his only league appearance for the club in July 1993 against
Swindon, when the Tigers were without Roman Matousek. Found more success in Conference League
racing where he was a popular member of the 1994 Mildenhall side.
| Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
| 1 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 2.00 |
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BAUGH, Dave - Born: Halifax, West Yorkshire 28 August 1949
Bespectacled Dave made 69 official appearances for the Tigers between 1968 and 1970 after having his first public rides at Owlerton. Filled a reserve berth for the majority of this time and was more successful later in his career, particularly in Second Division racing with Bradford in the early 70's. Retired in 1978 after a spell at Workington.
| Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
| 69 | 194 | 125 | 25 | 150 | 3.09 |
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BEVAN, Chris - Born: Leeds, West
Yorkshire 2 June 1958
Despite being under contract to the Tigers for the majority of his six year career, Chris
appeared just once for Sheffield in a league match, scoring one point in a 38-40 defeat at
Birmingham in 1977. Rode mainly in the second halves and on loan in the Second Division,
notably at Workington and Barrow.
| Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
| 5 | 10 | 2 | 0 | 2 | 0.80 |
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BEVERIDGE, Will - Born: Hexham, Northumberland 9 September 1975
Had two spells with the Tigers, in 1993 and 1995, riding mainly in the reserve berth. His career took off after leaving Owlerton and reached a six point average with Glasgow in 1999 and has signed for Newcastle for the 2000 season.
| Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
| 31 | 95 | 45 | 14 | 59 | 2.48 |
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BIBBY, Jack - Born: Australia
Australian international who first came to Britain in 1934, having been brought over by the great Vic Huxley. Rode for several clubs pre-war, including Hackney, Cardiff and Bristol. Spent the war years in London before joining the Tigers when racing resumed in 1946. Rode for four years at Owlerton when he played mainly a supporting role to heat leaders Tommy Allott, Tommy Bateman, and Stan Williams.
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BIRKINSHAW, James - Born: Sheffield, South Yorkshire 6 March 1980
Looked like a pontential international in demonstration races as a schoolboy and
joined the Tigers as a 16 year old. His career never took off as expected and by
1998 he had moved to Newcastle. Spent 1999 with Workington and returned to Owlerton
for the 2000 season when he doubled-up for the Prowlers in the Conference League.
His season reached a premature conclusion in August when he sustained a broken leg
in the home match against the Isle of Wight. With his average just a shade too high
to fit into the Tigers squad James joined Newcastle for the 2001 season covering for
the injured Paul Maklin. He top scored for the Diamonds with 16 points on their visit
to Owlerton, but shortly after he too joined the injured list with a collarbone injury.
| Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
| 61 | 249 | 165 | 36 | 201 | 3.23 |
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BLACKBURN, David - Born: Coventry, Warwickshire 7 January 1962
Joined the Tigers in 1993 and was expected to push for the number one slot. Despite a
few decent appearances David did not show the form he had shown at Berwick in previous
years and never really settled at Owlerton. Moved to Long Eaton in mid season and
retired in 1997.
| Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
| 30 | 153 | 204 | 20 | 224 | 5.86 |
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BOAST, Peter - Born: Louth, Lincolnshire 11 April 1964
An all round motorcyclist who was a late starter to speedway, not making his league
debut until the age of 30. A popular member of the Tigers side whenever he rode although
he found most of his success in the Conference League with Mildenhall. Unlucky to be
injured during the title winning season of 1999 and missed out on the celebrations
despite playing an important part in the success.
| Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
| 40 | 161 | 113 | 35 | 148 | 3.68 |
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BOGH, Ernst - Born: Fredericia, Denmark 13 January 1945
Brother of Danish international Kurt Bogh. Had two outings for the Tigers after losing
his team place at Leicester in 1976. Scored five points in his two meetings for the club
but was not retained.
| Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
| 2 | 6 | 5 | 1 | 6 | 4.00 |
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BOYLE, Tony - Born: Adelaide, Australia 6 September 1954
Tony was a full Australian international before coming to Britain in 1975 to ride for
Bradford. Came to Owlerton the following year, averaging around 4 points a match in
his three season with the Tigers. Reverted to Second Division racing with Boston and
Stoke after leaving Sheffield. Tony was killed racing a speed car at Adelaide on
January 22nd 1993.
| Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
| 58 | 193 | 163 | 22 | 185 | 3.83 |
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BRIDGEFORD, Wayne - Born: Warburton, Australia 20 October 1965
Signed by promoter Cliff Carr for a fee of £500 from Peterborough in an effort to solve
a weak reserve berth. Wayne did not prove to be the answer to the Tigers' problems and
left the club after scoring one point from his two meetings.
| Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
| 2 | 7 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0.57 |
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BRINE, Percy - Born: Elstree, Hertfordshire 7 June 1908
Pre war rider at Crystal Palace and Hackney who was a stunt rider at the famous Elstree
film studios. Tried to establish himself at various Second Divison tracks after the war,
including Sheffield in 1946. Found more success at Division Three level with Liverpool in
1950 and 1951 but was forced to retire after losing the sight of an eye in an operation.
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BROADBELT, Eric - Born: Blackpool, Lancashire 8 December 1947
Signed by the Tigers in 1979 from local rivals Halifax, in an attempt to help Eric regain
the form he had shown with Belle Vue and Poole but lost on his move to The Shay. Despite
being bought as a potential heat leader Eric was, at 31, slightly past his best and averaged
just over 6 points a match in each of his three seasons at Owlerton. Moved to Edinburgh in
1982 and was involved in a serious accident which all but cost him his life and although he
made a brave comeback he was never the same rider as he had been before the crash.
| Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
| 97 | 400 | 567 | 70 | 637 | 6.37 |
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BROWN, Wayne - Born: Wellington, New Zealand 2 December 1959
A former Second Division Riders Champion, Wayne joined the Tigers for a loan
spell at the end of 1981 from Berwick and was signed on a permanent basis for
the 1982 season. Averaged nearly six and a half points a match that season and
had a fantastic run of form late in the year which led to him being tipped for
a heat leader berth for 1983. However, Wayne was not to return to this country,
despite leading the club to believe that he would, as soon as he had set up his
haulage business. Wayne sadly died in an industrial accident in New Zealand on
January 29th 1991.
| Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
| 49 | 181 | 259 | 27 | 286 | 6.32 |
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BRUCE, Malcolm - Born: Bradford, West Yorkshire 19 March 1932
Began riding at Bradford's Odsal Stadium in 1955 and moved to Belle Vue when the West
Yorkshire club closed. Found first team outings with the Aces hard to come by and the
advent of the Provincial League in 1960 was the ideal opportunity for his career to
take off. Rode in 1960 and 61 for the Tigers and scored over 100 points in holding down
either a second string or reserve berth. Returned to the club in 1964 after a spell at
Bradford.
| Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
| 34 | 125 | 95 | 25 | 120 | 3.84 |
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BURROWS, Mark - Born: Sheffield, South Yorkshire 6 June 1964
Popular at all of the many tracks on which he has ridden, 'Buzz' is currently settled
at Stoke where he has shown the best form of his career which now dates back over 15
years. His outings for his hometown club were limited to a handful of appearances in
the 1994 season and despite being seen on the terraces at Owlerton most weeks his visits
in a riding capacity have been mostly on the visitors side of the pits.
| Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
| 4 | 16 | 12 | 3 | 15 | 3.75 |
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BURTON, Billy - Born: Felixtowe, Suffolk 3 September 1956
Joined the club in 1977 in a swap deal which saw Carl Glover move to King's Lynn.
Struggled to make an impression at Owlerton and was remarkably allowed 37 appearances
in 1978 despite averaging less than 3 points per match. Billy found more success at
Second Division level, particularly with Stoke and Ellesmere Port before returning to
Owlerton as a guest rider for Birmingham and scoring 14 points from five rides, almost
helping the Brummies to a win.
| Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
| 47 | 145 | 94 | 15 | 109 | 3.01 |
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BUSK, Alf - Born: Silkeborg, Denmark 16 April 1958
A former Danish international and European Junior Champion, Alf rode for Coventry for
six years before joining Swindon in 1983. Moved to Sheffield mid way through the 1985
season and proved to be a popular addition to the side. Did not return to Britain to
race after his spell at Owlerton.
| Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
| 16 | 48 | 53 | 13 | 66 | 5.50 |
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CAMPBELL, Dick - Born:
Christchurch, New Zealand 5 June 1923
Came to Britain in 1947 as a Wall of Death rider and signed for Belle Vue after trials. Dick came to Sheffield on loan to gain
experience and scored 20 points in his league appearances for the Tigers. Went on to gain fame with Edinburgh between 1948 and 54
and returned to ride for the Monarchs in 1961 and 62. Killed in an industrial accident in New Zealand in 1990.
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CARR, Louis -
Born: Preston, Lancashire 28 January 1960
Began his career as a 16 year old with Ellesmere Port and moved up full time in
Division One with Belle Vue in 1981. Came to Sheffield as captain ten years later
when cousin Cliff Carr reopened Owlerton. Spent four years with the Tigers before
a badly broken arm caused him to miss the latter part of the 1994 season. A brief
return to Belle Vue followed before Louis joined the promotion team at Sheffield,
a position he still holds.
| Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
| 80 | 358 | 484 | 61 | 545 | 6.09 |
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CARR, Peter - Born: Preston, Lancashire 22 January 1963
One of the most popular riders ever to have ridden for the Tigers with his dives down
the inside, earning him the nickname the 'B52'. Peter joined the club from Belle Vue
in 1985 and stayed until the doors closed at the end of the 1988 season. Moved to
Newcastle but was an obvious choice to lead the club when cousin, Cliff, moved in
two years later. Although his later spell with the club ended acrimoniously he is
still a popular visitor with most of the fans. Now rides for the Edinburgh Monarchs.
| Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
| 241 | 1090 | 1841 | 222 | 2063 | 7.57 |
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CARTER, Rob -
Born: Knutsford, Cheshire 19 April 1965
One of all too many riders Sheffield have had on their books who looked world beaters
in the early stages of their careers only to produce relatively little, Rob burst onto
the scene as a 16 year old in 1981. In June of that year he rode in the Bluey Wilkinson
Memorial Trophy as a reserve and beat Kelly Moran, Kenny Carter and Doug Wyer. However
he was never to reproduce this form again, making 14 official appearances and scoring
only 9 points. Rode in the lower leagues in an unsuccessful attempt to claim a regular
team place, eventually retiring after a spell at Long Eaton in 1987.
| Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
| 14 | 25 | 9 | 2 | 11 | 1.26 |
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CARTWRIGHT, Simon -
Born: Northallerton, North Yorkshire 2 November 1978
Son of former Halifax rider and England international Ian Cartwright, Simon began his
career at Sheffield in 1996, riding for the Owlerton Prowlers in the Conference League.
Eventually signed a full contract to ride for Hull and returned to Owlerton for the 1999
season, where he played a vital role in the championship winning side with a vital
increase in his average. Now an England Under 21 international Simon continued with
the Tigers for the 2000 season, again on loan from Hull, but failed to maintain progress.
| Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
| 85 | 366 | 407 | 62 | 469 | 5.13 |
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CHIGNELL, Jack -
Born: Sydney, Australia 14 March 1914
First came to Britain in 1948 to ride for Belle Vue after being spotted riding at
Sydney by Jack Parker. Made occasional first team appearances for the Aces before
coming to Sheffield in 1949 as a replacement for Bruce Semmens who has travelled
in the opposite direction over the Pennines. Had a spell as Tigers captain but his
time at Owlerton was disrupted by injury, scoring 197 points in his two year spell.
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CHILD, Dean -
Born: Morley, West Yorkshire 2 November 1969
A former Bradford junior who started the 1993 season in the Tigers line up. Made seven first team appearances before losing his place, obtaining a top score of 5 paid 6 away at Exeter.
| Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
| 9 | 29 | 22 | 5 | 27 | 3.74 |
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CLARKE, Ron -
Born: Oxford, Oxfordshire 26 March 1914
Ron reached World Finals in 1949 and 1950 and was a regular England international
during this time, which he spent with Bradford, or Odsal as they were then known.
Retired from the sport in 1957 before making a one match comeback for the Tigers
when the sport returned to Owlerton in 1960. Scored 1 paid 2 from that solitary match.
| Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
| 1 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 4.00 |
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COLLINS, Les -
Born: Partington, Manchester 24 May 1958
Joined Sheffield from Leicester in 1984 when the 'Lions' had closed down during the winter. On joining the Tigers, Les' averaged dipped below 8 points per match for the first time in several years and his scoring declined further in 1985 which prompted a move to Edinburgh the following year. Having had his best spell in the early 1980's, finishing runner-up to Bruce Penhall in the 1982 World Final, his time at Sheffield proved to be a disappointment to the Owlerton faithful who had expected a slightly higher points return. Les continues to ride in the Premier League with Glasgow.
| Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
| 100 | 413 | 701 | 60 | 761 | 7.37 |
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COLLINS, Neil -
Born: Partington, Manchester 15 October 1961
Neil has had three spells with the Tigers and is possibly one of the most popular riders to have worn the blue and yellow in recent times. First rode for the club as an 18 year old before being amazingly sold by then promoter Ray Glover, following Neil's refusal to move up full time into the First Division, and was bought back in a big money deal from Leicester in 1984. Stayed at Owlerton until the club closed in 1988 and returned for the 1995 season. Neil's merry-go-round of clubs continues including most recently Swindon in the Premier League, Belle Vue in the Elite, and then Workington in the Premier.
| Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
| 283 | 1228 | 1991 | 187 | 2178 | 7.09 |
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COLQUHOUN, Rod -
Born: Mount Warrigal, Australia 28 February 1967
Joined the Tigers from Peterborough at the start of the 1994 season having previously
had a good record at Owlerton. Was intended to be the third heat leader but a combination
of poor form, injury and machinery trouble saw him drop to reserve at one stage of the
season. Was in danger of losing his place but eventually recorded a 5.36 average. Did
have several good meetings but his overall performance was disappointing. This was to
be Rod's last season in Britain.
| Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
| 36 | 176 | 204 | 32 | 236 | 5.36 |
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COMPTON, André -
Born: Dewsbury, West Yorkshire 15 May 1977
Signed for Bradford on his 16th birthday, making his debut he same day. Despite signs
of promise his career was going nowhere until he signed for the Tigers for the 1998
season, on loan from Bradford who had closed down but continued to hold his contract.
Made rapid strides in 1998 and began the 1999 season as a heat leader. Showed superb
form throughout the season, culminating in the Tigers Championship win. It was inevitable
that he would attract the attention of Elite League clubs and he joined Peterborough for
the 2000 season, but he became the victim of the teams poor early season performance and
he was quickly dropped. Joining Newcastle he became Sheffield's nemesis often producing
his best form when riding against his old club.
| Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
| 79 | 368 | 669 | 52 | 721 | 7.84 |
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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
occaionally 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 limlited
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 charasmatic, 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 conrol 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 committments 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 Norweigan 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 hostilites 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.
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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 Scandanavia. 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 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
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.
| 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.
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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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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.
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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 |
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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 |
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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 |
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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 |
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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.
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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 |
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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 |
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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 |
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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 |
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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
ater after spells at Bradford, Long Eaton and Newcastle.
| Matches | Rides | Points | Bonus | Total | Average |
| 4 | 11 | 6 | 3 | 9 | 3.27 |
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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.
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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 |
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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 |
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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 |
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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 restablished 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 |
| 121 | 601 | 1149 | 55 | 1204 | 8.01 |
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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 |
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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 |
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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 |
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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 |
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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 |
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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 |
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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.
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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 |
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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 |
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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.
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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 |
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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 |
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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 |
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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 |
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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 |
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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 |
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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 |
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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 |
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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 |
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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 |
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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 |
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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.
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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 |
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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 |
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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 |
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AAS, Rene - Born: Tallin, Estonia 13 August 1969