It Happened This Week.......1923

Tony first officially rode for the club in 1950 although it wasn't uncommon to see him take second half riders the previous year. But once given the breakthrough into the Pirates' side he rapidly became a polished performance, not least because of the influence and encouragement of Ken Middleditch. The pair of them were to become known as "Me and My Shadow" as they formed a racing bond that opponents feared, for their team riding was virtually impossible to break. Tony and Ken made a difficult art look frightfully easy!.

 

Tony's stylish riding played a major part in the club's first ever championship honour as Poole raced to the the third division title and his efforts were rewarded with the first of many international caps. During the winter he toured South Africa with favourable results, returning to help the Pirates win the second division crown at their first attempt.

 

Outside of the first divison, Poole were the most successful side in British speedway and Tony's part was significant as the Pirates remained unbeated around Wimborne Road from March 1950 until the opening match of the 1956 season!

 

After clinching another league championship in 1955 the Pirates embarked on an eight match tour of Scandinavia during which Tony became perilously close to losing his life. During the match against Getingarna he was involved in an horrific crash and was rushed to hospital with severe head injuries. Remarkably he made a complete recovery but was advised not to ride again.

 

Indeed he didn't...until the Provincial league was formed in 1960 and amazingly he took to the track again, re-establishing that unique partnership with Middleditch.

 

More success followed with back to back title wins in 1961 and 1962 and Tony's 'second' career lasted through until the end of 1964 when he finally decided to hang up his leathers for good.