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Recalled by Speedway Express reader, J. H. Coath in March 1977 What a team this was - Wal Phillips - probably the most popular rider ever with his marvellous machinery built by himself and engined by J.A.P. to whom he was under contract.
The two Jacks - Bishop and Chapman, the latter Australian being the better of the two, and the former dying tragically back home during the during the winter of either 1932 or the next year. What can one say about Frank Arthur. He was the perfect rider. Every rider and promoter in the business respected him - despite his actual youthful age in the 20's, he conveyed an aura of complete authority and reliability, and usually alternated the captaincy of Australia with the great Vic Huxley. Frank's style was not particularly spectacular, but he rode his machinery brilliantly and fast. Good old Gus! Gus Kuhn, a master of the motor-cycle in trials and competition riding before going on to Speedway, so steady and reliable - although in his early 30's, I think. He seemed that much more mature than the rest. A very effective team-man and points getter. Keith Harvey, the only South African riding at that time, was by no means a star rider, but with his hectic style of riding and unconventional personality, endeared himself to fans wherever he rode. Favourite Bill Stanley, with his extra wide unswept handlebars, his tearaway style coupled with fearless courage, was also a great favourite with the supporters from the first right after being signed from Coventry. The last two were Australians Dick Wise and Dicky Smythe. Dick was, I think, involved in more crashes than most, yet with it all, when on form, was brilliant, and rode for his county many times, as also did Dicky Smythe, a star of his time, utterly reliable - a former jockey who took to Speedway with a natural 'seat'. Brilliant on his day, and that was very often. Stamford Bridge track was a full 440 yards lap, very fast, and the full-throttle merchants had every chance of a win on the outside, as well as the white-line types like Frank and Gus, who rode more craftily perhaps. The track was comparatively steeply banked, which made for interesting racing, and a look at the photo I have discloses that the support was there. The stand and the terraces are full of keen supporters. But alas, the 'Dogs' and greed won - it had to be either Greyhound Racing and Football, or the latter and Speedway. Regrettably, the first pair won. |
