The ‘80s were big: big hair, big shoulder pads, big moustaches, and a man with a big heart and a big dream. This Saturday, the birth of Central Motor Speedway and its founder Ron Spriggs are being celebrated ‘80s style.

Lynette Woods was the very first club secretary, and according to Ron’s notes from a 1985 speech, the practical help both she and husband Kevin gave ‘meant a great deal to him’. From her home in Australia, Lynette shared memories of ‘fun times’.

“They put in a lot of hours of work getting everything up and running, but Spriggo made sure we always had a good time.”

Cromwell local Bill Sanders was one of those who raced at the 1980 inaugural meeting of the new Cromwell speedway. He remembers navigating the unique D-shaped track with its Cromwell Curve and Bannockburn Bend. Bill and Lynette have hilarious stories to tell about the different personalities and the antics everyone got up to back in the day. Some of these stories are sure to be recounted after racing on Saturday night!

Pete Hosie was one of those who put hours of work into the new race track and amentities. He was also the original race judge and commentator, and says he will be there on Saturday to reprise his role alongside current commentator Daryl Shuttleworth during the grand parade.

The last word goes to Ron Spriggs himself.

“I have stated over the years that we are going to make this track and the entertainment on it the best in the South Island. I believe that the improvements to the complex, the numbers of top line competitors, the backing we get from the Cromwell area business community, the public support, and a very active local club, have now made this dream a reality.”

Well said Spriggo!

Racing starts at 5.00pm on Saturday 19th November.  Everyone is welcome in the clubrooms after racing for a celebration of Ron and all those who were part of creating the legacy that is now Central Motor Speedway.

Article added: Wednesday 16 November 2022