The Kiwis (2)
Roger Bertram
Ted Tracey
Max Butterworth
Roger Bertram (“RB”)
Roger Bertram started racing supermodifieds at Western Springs in the 1970-71 season in a car he built himself. His interest had been kindled while engine tuning for Garry Running and others the previous season. He drove his supermodified (#14 and 1) for four seasons collecting the Auckland Championship in 1972-73 and finishing second in the NZ Champs in 74-75. For the 75-76 and 76-77 seasons he gained more experience driving the ex-Ken Holden supermodified #47. In the winter of 1977 Roger purchased the ex-Bill Warner, fully imported, CAE sprintcar and re-numbered it as #15. In this car, he dominated the supermodified/sprintcar category and won the New Zealand Championship in 1977-78, 78-79 and 79-80. By the 1980-81 season the CAE sprintcar was not competitive as Barry B had imported a new four bar Shores car. Roger ran mainly in the midget category for the next three seasons running a Vauxhall Victor-powered car in 1981-82 and the Bruce Drinkwater-owned VW in 82-83 and 83-84 seasons. In winter 1983, Roger built a new aluminium body for the CAE chassis and then raced it at Waikaraka Park in the Modified class. The car was very competitive and he won the NZ Modified Championship in 1984-85, 85-86, 87-88 and 88-89. In 1990 he replaced the CAE chassis with a new Garry Harris Chassis and rebuilt the car. He went on to win the NZ Modified Champs again in 96-97 and 97-98 before retiring from driving in 1998.
Roger raced against Barry B first in the 72-73 season when Barry was driving “Dracula”. At that stage Roger was learning his craft but by the time Barry drove the ex-Willy Kay wingless sprintcar they became great rivals. In particular, in the 76-77 season they had some very hard-fought contests in the sprintcar races at Western Springs. Roger wasn’t competitive with Barry in a midget and then he went to race at Waikaraka Park. However, at Barry’s first Kumeu Easter meeting (1984) Roger re-converted the CAE Modified back to a sprintcar and actually beat Barry in the feature race! Roger purchased Barry’s second Shores sprintcar and raced it in some of the later Outlaw events.There was a large degree of respect between the two and Roger always refers to Barry as one of the greats of the sport.
Roger Bertram in his first speedway car – the Wild Wheels-sponsored #14 supermodified.
(From the Kevin McIvor collection)
Dave Jolly serves up some rough stuff on Roger Bertram.
(Bruce Kent photo from the Kevin McIvor collection)
Roger Bertram in Wild Wheels-sponsored #14 supermodified goes around the outside of Ken Vincent in the Hot Rod Magazine-sponsored #3 at Western Springs in 1972-73.
(From http://macgor.proboards.com/index.cgi?
board=stockcarmia&action=display&thread=25738)
Roger Bertram (#14) is facing the wrong way as Trevor Morris crashes into him. Dayne Plummer (#99) is in the background.
(Bruce kent photo from the Kevin McIvor collection)
Roger Bertram’s in Wild Wheels-sponsored supermodified in the pits and ready for action.
(From the Kevin McIvor collection)
Roger (#1) gives Gary Murch (#29) a bit of a push as he tries for an inside pass.
(From http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?
fbid=491573980885555&set=pb.157894084253548.-2207520000.
1361406682&type=3&theater)
Supermodified action at Forest Lake in 1973-74. Roger Bertram in Auck #1 leads Willy Kay in the Levis Sprintcar Auck #2. The Willy Kay sprintcar was later sold to Rick Marmont and Bob Underwood who had Barry B drive it as #1 in the 1975-76 season.
(http://macgor.proboards.com/index.cgi?
board=stockcarmia&action=display&thread=25738)
For the 1975-76 and 76-77 seasons Roger raced the ex-Ken Holden Edmunds-style supermodified.
(Graham Witherill collection from http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?
fbid=491583424217944&set=pb.157894084253548.-2207520000.
1361406682&type=3&theater)
Roger posing with the ex-Ken Holden car on the infield at Western Springs. Because the car was painted jet-black, he became known as the “Black Bandit”.
(https://www.facebook.com/pages/Kevin-J-McIvor-Poetry-and-Motor-Sports-Page/157894084253548)
The black bandit racing at Tempeton Speedway, Christchurch.
(https://www.facebook.com/groups/376664865750040/)
For the 1977-78 season Roger raced the ex-Bill Warner American built CAE sprintcar that he purchased in Christchurch. He initially ran the car as #15 but after winning the NZ Championship he claimed #1.
(http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?
fbid=491611317548488&set=a.314273251948963.74558.
157894084253548&type=3&theater)
The “Black Bandit”. The 1977-78 NZ Supermodified/sprintcar Champion Roger Bertram in full cry in the CAE sprintcar
(From: the Kevin McIvor collection)
Roger Bertram goes for an inside pass on Tony Allen at Western Springs.
(From the Kevin McIvor collection)
157894084253548&type=3&theater)
Three of the all-time greats of New Zealand Speedway in the supermodified/sprintcar division. From left to right, Roger Gleeson, Roger Bertram and Peter Annan.
(From the Allan Batt collection)
Roger looks happy as he poses as current New Zealand Champion.
(From the Kevin McIvor collection))
By 1978-79 season onwards he had CRC sponsorship and the car was in white and red livery. Here Roger races the CAE sprintcar which dominated NZ sprintcar racing from 1977-1980 until Barry B imported the Mercury Motors Outlaw four bar sprintcar.
(From: http://macgor.proboards.com/index.cgi?
board=stockcarmia&action=print&thread=4168)
The beautifully prepared CRC-sponsored CAE Sprintcar. The car was fitted with a small 302 ci Chev out of his supermodified. He raced with the motor through until 1992 when he fitted a 360 ci Chevy to his Harris modified.
(From http://macgor.proboards.com/index.cgi?
board=stockcarmia&action=display&thread)
Roger Bertram on the Western Springs infield ready for action.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Roger in the CRC-sponsored CAE sprintcar (#15) at Western Springs during the 1982-83 season.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Roger (leading), racing during the 1982-83 season, is about to be swallowed-up by Barry B in the Shores sprintcar now sponsored by Autex Snooper.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Roger (#15) in the thick of the sprintcar action at Western Springs 1982-83.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Roger at speed in the sprintcar. It became less competitive as the years went by.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
For the 1982-83 season Roger Bertram raced the VW-powered midget (#15) owned by Bruce Drinkwater with reasonable success.
(Graham Witherill collection from http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?
fbid=529488853762013&set=pb.157452800965622.-2207520000.
1361341638&type=3&theatre)
For the 1983-84 season the Drinkwater VW midget carried CRC livery like the CAE sprintcar.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
He was involved in a nasty-looking crash during the running of the 1983-84 50 lap international event.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
The Drinkwater midget was a wreck after the smash. The car was rebuilt and Roger completed the season in the midget.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Roger is pushed out onto the infield in the Drinkwater VW.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Roger Bertram leads “Cyclone” Ted Tracey at Western Springs.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
In 1983 Roger built a new aluminium body for the CAE chassis and raced it in the modified class at Waikaraka Park (still with the Chevy 302 installed). He dominated the class between 1984 and 1990. Here he is after another win in 1984-85.
(From http://macgor.proboards.com/index.cgi?
board=stockcarmia&action=display&thread=9673)
Roger on the gas in the CAE modified at Waikaraka Park in the 1985-86 season.
(From http://macgor.proboards.com/index.cgi?
board=stockcarmia&action=display&thread=9673)
An unusual shot of Roger at Waikaraka Park in the CEA car taken fron the outside of the track.
(https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.691926624183622.1073741830.
157894084253548&type=3)
A common sight in the late 1980’s as Roger goes for a victory lap after yet another win.
(http://macgor.proboards.com/thread/9673/roger-bertram-cae-mod)
Roger Bertram in the CAE modified (#15) makes an outside pass on Ian Verrall (#39 A) during a daylight meeting.
(http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?
fbid=495288693847417&set=a.197134866996136.49309.
157894084253548&type=3&theater)
Roger purchased the second Shores Sprintcar off Barry B at the end of the 1984-85 season. Here he is racing it at Western Springs in 1985-86.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Roger pulling a wheelie at Western Springs in the Shores sprintcar. The new clay surface gave plenty of traction for the sprintcars and Roger was one of the stars of the 1985-86 season.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Sprintcar placegetters pose from L to R, Bruce Hobbs, Lyndon Kendall and Roger Bertram in front of Roger’s CRC-sponsored car.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Roger Bertram fighting a bit of a push at Western Springs.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
In 1989-90, Roger replaced the CAE chassis with a new Garry Harris chassis. Here Roger, in the new car, (#1) chases Phillip Game (77) at Waikaraka Park.
(https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1000083949108760)
Roger in the Garry Harris modified being pushed off by his crew in 1989-90.
(https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.691926624183622.1073741830.
157894084253548&type=3)
A new high bar Garry Harris chassis was built which Roger campaigned throughout the mid and lates 1990s.
(http://macgor.proboards.com/thread/4080?page=8)
Roger won the NZ modified championship in 1996-97 and 97-98 in the Harris car.
(http://macgor.proboards.com/thread/4072/last-roger-bertram-modified?
page=1)
Roger Bertrum carrying #1 as NZ Champion at speed in the sunset.
(http://macgor.proboards.com/thread/15348?page=1)
Roger stands arms akimbo in his red tracksuit in the pits in front of the Harris modified.
(http://macgor.proboards.com/index.cgi?
action=display&board=stockcarmia&thread=15348&page=2)
Roger celebrates after yet another win in the modified this time in 1994.
(http://macgor.proboards.com/index.cgi?
board=stockcarmia&action=display&thread=16818)
Roger Bertram in the CRC-sponsored Harris car (#15) leads Willie Noonan.
(archivehttp://www.facebook.com/photo.php?
fbid=504627276246892&set=a.246767685366187.
60418.157894084253548&type=1&theatre)
Roger running the Harris modified at speed during the 1997-98 season. Roger retired in 1998 after 28 years in the sport.
(From http://macgor.proboards.com/index.cgi?
board=stockcarmia&action=display&thread=16818)
“Cyclone” Ted Tracey (“TT”)
Ted Tracey began his speedway racing career at the age of 17 in 1974 in a Holden-powered midget in the “B” grade at Western Springs. At the time, his father Brian Tracey was a well-respected middle-marker in the midget ranks driving an offenhauser-powered car. By the end of the season Ted was promoted to the “A” grade and won two features. One was the Tappenden National 20 Lap Championship in which he was closely followed home by Barry B in the Edmunds Offy. For the 1975-76 season Ted purchased his dad’s offenhauser midget and gained valuable experience racing it in the A grade. Ted then raced through the VW era of midget racing winning the New Zealand Midget Championship in 1976-77, 77-78, 78-79, 80-81, 83-84 and 86-87. During this era, he raced successfully in the USA three times and twice in Australia. In the post-VW era, Ted had a close association with Ray Alach Racecars and his Pontiac-powered Beast car was highly competitive in the midget division. He won the NZ Champs again in 1992-93 before retiring from the sport. In his last season he won five features including the last feature of the season. In the 19 years that he raced, as well as a record of seven NZ Champs, he won the Auckland Championship in 1992, the World 30 Lap Championship in 1983 and won 49 feature races with 34 seconds and 26 thirds at the Springs. He was top points scorer in the International series in the 1981-82, 89-90 and 91-92 seasons. Once Barry B and Ted’s dad Brian, began the C.T.R.A., Ted was a star in the midget division at Waikaraka Park and Meremere and CTRA Midget Champion in 1988. During his career he had his fair share of spectacular crashes as well as blown motors but each time his dedication and professionalism soon saw him back on the track. Ted was a drawcard at Western Springs and had a loyal band of keen supporters. During the VW era of Auckland speedway, the Barry B and Ted Tracey supporters were often at loggerheads!
As a boy, Ted referred to Barry B as “Uncle Barry” since Brian and Barry were friends and had known each other for many years. However, once Barry and Ted became arch rivals the uncle-bit went out the window! Barry and Ted inevitably had a number of on-track altercations and consequent off-track verbal stouches. During the international teams events, where Barry and Max raced together, Ted was as much the opposition to the Butterworth brothers as the Yanks and Aussies were! However, once Barry retired from midgets and was concentrating on sprintcar racing, he was again friends with Ted.
In his first season (1973-74) in the Holden-powered midget #22. Here Ted leads Trevor Morris in the Jim Beam Chevy II. Barry was in his last season in the Edmunds Offenhauser.
(From http://macgor.proboards.com/index.cgi?
board=stockcarmia&action=display&thread=4165)
A young Ted Tracey posing with his Holden-powered midget in 1973-74.
(https://www.facebook.com/pages/Kevin-J-McIvor-Writer-Speedway-Memories/157452800965622)
At the end of the 1973-74 season 19 year-old Ted Tracey (L) (in his first season) won the Tappenden National 20 Lap Championship closely followed home by Barry (R) in the Doug Cook offy. They were photographed straight after the event. By the late 70s and early 80s Ted had become Barry’s fiercest rival.
(From One Tough Dude, The Barry Butterworth Story by Alan Batt, Speedway Classics, Alan Batt, Christchurch, NZ)
Ted ploughs into Fred Routt’s midget at Kihikihi. Chris Sleeps car is partly obscured.
(From the Kevin McIvor collection)
The first year after purchasing his dad’s Offenhauser midget(1974-75) was a learning experience for Ted. Here he is with all four wheels off the ground on an “infield excursion” at Western Springs.
(From the Kevin McIvor collection))
Dave Jolly takes to the grassed infield in an attempt to pass Ted Tracey in the Offy during the 1974-75 season.
(From the Kevin McIvor collection))
Dave Jolly (#8) and Ted (#2) at it again as Dave pushes young Offenhauser-mounted Ted Tracey (#2) all the way at Western Springs.
(From the Kevin McIvor collection)
Ted Tracey at speed running his ex-dad’s Offenhauser (#2) at Western Springs in the 1975-76 season.
(Bill Meyer photo from Just One More, The Speedway Photography of Bill Meyer by Wayne Meyer and Tony Loxley, Full Throttle Publication)
Ted in 1977-78 with his foot firmly planted and the inside front wheel of his VW-powered car lifting off the Western Springs track
(From the Kevin McIvor collection)
Ted leads Barry Butterworth in the Lendich VW. Ted went on to win the 1977-78 NZ Midget Car Championship in the VW (his second straight championship).
(From the Kevin McIvor collection)
Ted’s car up on the Western Springs banking after it came of second-best with the safety fence!
(From the Gordon McIsaac collection)
Ted (#1) on the inside of Keith Watson (#78). Both were members of the winning 1978-79 NZ Midget Test team. That season, Ted went on to win his third NZ Midget Car Championship.
(From the Kevin McIvor collection)
Ted in the blue track suit talking to bystanders in the pits at Western Springs during the 1978-79 season.
(Alan Clark photo from the Marcel Facoory collection)
Ted leads Barry Butterworth in the Lendich VW. By this time Ted had become Barry’s major compeditor
(From the Alan Batt collection)
Ted sandwiched behind Barry Butterworth (#21) and in front of Sleepy Tripp (#3) at the start of an international event.
(From the Kevin McIvor collection)
Ted Tracey posing in his Golden Gun-sponsored VW midget in 1978-79 at Western Springs.
(From https://www.facebook.com/groups/1413821385528211/)
Carrying #1 again for the 1979-80 seadson, Ted is ready to be pushed off.
(From the Matt Sefont collection)
Ted in the pits at Western Springs during the 1979-80 season.
(From https://www.facebook.com/groups/1413821385528211/)
Here is Ted racing at Kihikihi during the 1979-80 season in the Golden Gun VW #1.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Ted Tracey carrying #1 as he races up on the cushion at Bay Park Speedway.
(From the Matt Sefont collection)
Ted helps track staff right his midget after a small racing mishap at Bay Park.
(From the Matt Sefont collection)
Leo Vercoe (#99), Paul Rollinson (#47) and Ted Tracey (#1) going for an outside pass at Bay Park 1979-80.
(From the Matt Sefont collection)
Ted on the gas in VW #1. He was in the winning NZ Midget Team (which beat Australian and USA teams) along with Barry Butterworth and Owen Shaw.
(From the Matt Sefont collection)
Ted being interviewed for TVNZ by motor racing commentator Tony Palmer at a televised international meeting over Christmas in 1979-80.
(From https://www.facebook.com/barry.butterworth.21?fref=ts)
Ted at speed at Western Springs during the 1980-81 season. He won his fourth NZ Midget Championship at the end of that season.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Ted Tracey being pushed off at Western Springs 1980-81.
(From the Matt Sefont collection)
Ted with the pedal to the metal at Western Springs.
(From the Matt Sefont collection)
Lined-up on the infield are current NZ Champion Ray Alach (#1), Ted Tracey (#5) and American Bobby Olivero (#83).
(From the Matt Sefont collection)
Although he did not make the NZ Midget team in 1980-81,Ted continued to be highly competitive in the International events over Christmas.
(From the Matt Sefont collection))
Ted in a serious mood as he is pushed back to the pits.
(From the Matt Sefont collection)
Carrying #1 again as NZ Champion, Ted goes on a lap of honor after another win during the 1981-82 season.
(Alan Clark photo from the Marcel Facoory collection)
Ted Tracey (#1) chasing Owen Shaw (#43) with Sleepy Tripp (#3) on the outside.
(From the Gordon McIsaac collection)
Ted running at Western Springs in #1 during 1981-82 season as current NZ Champion.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Ted has the Golden Gun VW flying out wide on the Western Springs dirt in 1982-83.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
By the 1982-83 season Ted Tracey was at the top of his game and could easily foot with the International stars. Here he is throwing the VW about in spectacular fashion!
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Spectacular action from Western Springs as Ted Tracey in the Golden Gun VW (#5) leads Sleepy Tripp in the 3M VW (#3).
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Close action in the midgets as Maurice Cowling (#27) rubs wheels with Ted Tracey (#5)at Western Springs.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Ted Tracey dominated the 1982-83 World 30 Lap Championship at Western Springs. He won coming from the back of a 20-car field from Sleepy Tripp (blue and white tracksuit to the left) and Barry Butterworth in the Gennetten V4 Chev (directly behind Ted in the red tracksuit).
(Alan Clark photo from the Marcel Facoory collection)
Ted in the pits and ready to go racing in the 1982-83 season.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Ted time trialing at Davenport Iowa, 1983. Ted made three racing trips to the USA and during 1983 he participated in the Southwest Independent Midget Series (SWIMS) tour.
(From http://www.flickr.com/photos/dalezoom/3062409767/)
Ted Tracey running hard at Springfield. Illinois 1983. Driving in the USA gave Ted additional experience and at Western Springs he was fully competitive with the American imports.
(From http://www.flickr.com/photos/dalezoom/3063247518/)
Ted with the hammer down in 1983-84 at Western Springs.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
An article by John webster on Ted with particular reference to Ted’s 1983 trip to the USA where he was involved in a big shunt at Erie Speedway in Denver, Colorado.
(From Speedway Racing. November 1984)
Here is the crash referred to in the above article. Ted in mid-air after hitting the side of Sleepy Tripp’s car at the Eire half mile banked track (Colorado) during his 1983 foray to the USA.
(From the Kevin McIvor collection)
Ted comes back down to earth at Eire. He received concussion, bruising to his legs and body and a broken hand.
(From the Kevin McIvor collection)
Ted on the infield at Western Springs in the 1983-84 season and ready to be pushed off.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Ted, as winner of the Trevor Morris Memorial feature poses with the trophy and Snow Morris (Trevor’s dad).
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Ted Tracey running the cushion up near the concrete banking at Western Springs during 1983-84.
A spectacular shot of Ted at full speed at the Springs – taken from the outside of the track.
(Colin Irwin photo from https://www.facebook.com/colin.irwin3?fref=ts)
Ted (#5) has the inside running on Sleepy Tripp (#3) at Western Springs in 1983-84. Smoke is coming from the rubbing tyres!
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Ted Tracey (#5) and Sleepy Tripp (#3) at it again and this time Sleepy has the inside running with Ted rim-riding.
(Martin Smith photo from https://www.facebook.com
/profile.php?id=100006161538885)
Ted raced at Barry B’s first Kumeu meeting at Easter, 1984.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Multiple NZ Champion Ted Tracey looks happy to be in the cockpit of his VW-powered midget.
(Alan Clark photo from the Marcel Facoory collection)
Here is an Alan Clark photo of Ted way out wide in the heavy dirt at Kumeu.
(Alan Clark photo from the Marcel Facoory collection)
Ted raced the Golden Gun VW in yellow livery for the 1984-85 season. Here Ted is three wheeling #1 at Western Springs as current NZ Champion.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Celebrating another victory in the Golden Gun VW.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Ted with the Golden Gun VW #1 crossed up leads Brett Horrobin (#87), Grant Wilkes (#23) and Sleepy Tripp on the outside (#3).
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Things didn’t always go right for Ted. Here is a great action shot by Colin Irwin of Ron Kendall and Ted Tracey (#1) cartwheeling together at Western Springs.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Ted poses with a poster made by his fans – “King of the Springs” – that’s Ted!
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Ted (centre) took out the 1984-85 Bob Tattersall Memorial feature from Brett Horrobin (L) and Larry Rice (R).
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Ted in the Golden Gun VW leads up and coming Brett Horrobin in the Sunday News VW.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
A fine action shot of Ted with the hammer down at Western Springs in the 1985-86 season. Carrying number 91 on the tail was the result of sponsorship from local Auckland radio station Magic 91 FM.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Ted running hard and sending up a cloud of dust at Kihikihi during the 1985-86season.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
After a bingle with Brett Horrobin (#87), Ted flipped the Magic 91 FM car in a big way at Western Springs but came back stronger than ever.
(Colin Irwin photos sourced from http:/www.sap.net.nz/)
Ted at speed with the inside front wheel lifting again at Kihikihi Speedway.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
For the 1986-87 season, Ted procured CRC sponsorship and the car went back to #5. Ted and the crew seem most amused with comments being shouted by the Western springs fans as they push the car around for a start!
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Ted with the pedal to the metal in the CRC VW at Western Springs.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Ted ready to be pushed off in the VW. Ted won the 1986-87 New Zealand Midget Car Championship held at Western Springs that season.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
At the end of the 1986-87 season Ted raced in Australia at Archerfield speedway, Brisbane, in international events. The car he drove was the Jim Holden- (ex Australian midget champion) owned Edmunds VW. Ted aquitted himself well.
(From Wheel to Wheel. The History of Brisbane Speedcar Racing. Part 2 1980-2016 “The Modern Era” by Barry Lane, Barry Lane, Brisbane)
The international match race series field lining up at Archerfield. Paul Linberg (Australasia) on the inside of Sleepy Tripp (USA) with Ted Tracey (Australasia) and John Pearson (USA) on the back row.
(From Wheel to Wheel. The History of Brisbane Speedcar Racing. Part 2 1980-2016 “The Modern Era” by Barry Lane, Barry Lane, Brisbane)
For the 1987-88 season Ted retained CRC sponsorship. However, his racing at the CTRA events at Waikaraka Park meant he was unable to continue racing at the Springs. He was also barred from the NZ Championship meeting in Tauranga.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Ted (#1) leads Graeme Hartnell (#52) at Waikaraka Park in 1987-88. Brian Tracey (Ted’s dad) was promoter of the CTRA outlaw events and Ted was one of the midget stars.CTRA midgets ran with wings.
(Alan Clark photo from the Marcel Facoory collection)
Outlaw midgets arriving at Waikaraka Park. Ted Tracey’s midget #1 and Brett Horrobin’s Ray Bull-owned midget #87 arrive on the same trailer.
(Alan Clark photo from the Marcel Facoory collection)
A fine action shot of Ted Tracey at full opposite lock at Waikaraka Park at a CTRA event. After being turned away from the official NZ Midget Championship (because he was a CTRA outlaw), Ted won the 1988 CTRA NZ Midget Car Championship.
(Alan Clark photo from the Marcel Facoory collection)
Sprintcar driver Gavin Pearce, Ted Tracey (centre) and Barry Butterworth at Waikaraka Park after the meeting. Barry has a can of his favourite – Lion Red!
(Alan Clark photo from the Marcel Facoory collection)
Ted Tracey driving Gavin Pearce’s sprintcar at Waikaraka Park. He raced against Barry Butterworth in a match race series at a CTRA event in 1988 (possibly the only time Ted raced a sprintcar).
(Alan Clark photo from the Marcel Facoory collection)
Ted posing with fellow outlaw Brett Horrobin at Waikaraka Park.
(Alan Clark photo from the Marcel Facoory collection)
Ted Tracey( #1) as the NZ CTRA Midget Champion in action on the Meremere high bank in 1988.
(Greg Olesen photo from the Kevin McIvor collection)
Winner of the 1988 Easter Outlaw National Trophy for Midgets at Meremere, Ted poses with the trophy girls.
(Alan Clark photo from the Marcel Facoory collection)
Ted in the CRC VW midget at a CTRA meeting at Meremere in 1987-88. The CTRA ran winged midgets.
(Tony Growden photo sourced from http://tonygrowdenphotography.webs.com/)
During the 1988-89 season Ted raced a Ray Alach-owned Chevy II at both Meremere and Western Springs. The car carried #1 since he won the CTRA “Open New Zealand Midget Championship” in 1988. At the Springs he ran as #91 since Graham Standring ran with #1 as the official NZ Champion!
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Ted has the Alach Chevy II running hard ahead of another competitor at Western Springs.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Ted ready to be being pushed out of the pits and onto the track.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Ted at full speed at Western Springs in the Ray Alach-owned car #1.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Ted moves down low to pass VW-mounted Wayne Scott on the inside.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Ted being helped out of the Ray Alach midget by the crash crew after a bit of a shunt.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Ted at speed on the Meremere high bank in 1988-89.
(Alan Clark photo from the Marcel Facoory collection)
Ted Tracey (#1) in the Alach Chevy II leads Brett Horrobin (#87) in the Harris Cosworth on the high bank at Meremere.Ted and Brett were two of the original outlaw drivers.
(Alan Clark photo from the Marcel Facoory collection)
Cyclone Ted Tracey lines up on the inside of Mr 100% himself, Graham Standring on the Meremere Highbank 1988-89.
(Greg Olsen photo from the Kevin McIvor collection)
Helpers run to the scene after Ted had upended the Alach Chevy II at Meremere.
( https://www.facebook.com/baz.cleverley/photos_albums)
For the 1989-90 season Ted ran a newly-built Ray Alach midget with his own Pontiac motor installed. Here he is on one of the international nights flying the NZ flag.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Ted in the Alach Pontiac ahead of young American hotshoe P J Jones who was part of the USA midget team in the 1989-90 season.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
For the first part of the 1990-91 season Ted ran the Alach Pontiac. Here he poses with Ray Alach.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Ted leading the pack in the Alach Pontiac.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
For the latter part of the 1990-91 season the Pontiac motor was transferred into a Beast chassis owned by Ray Alach with Ted retaining his number as #5.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Things didn’t always go to plan! The Beast Pontiac is taken back to the pits after a shunt.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Here Ted (#5) leads fellow 1991-92 NZ team member Kevin Hyde (#6) in the evening light at Western Springs.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Ted was extremely competitive in the Beast Pontiac. He was top scorer in the international series in 1991-92 and his close tussles with Sleepy Tripp were worth watching.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Ted Tracey with the inside front wheel hiking as he rings everything out of the Beast Pontiac.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
The “Cyclone” leads at Western Springs with Kevin Hyde (#6) on the inside and Garry Payne (12) following.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
A portrait of Ted and crew with the Beast Pontiac in the 1991-92 season. The car is now a metallic wine red and run by Ted rather than Ray Alach. This particular Colin Irwin shot is used on the Ted Traceys LMVD web site.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Ted drives under Kevin Hyde in the 1992-93 season. In this, Ted’s last season and the beast Pontiac retained its metallic wine red livery!
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Placegetters in the 1992-93 CocaCola Grand National Midget Series. From left to right: Kevin Hide third, Ted Tracey first, a leggy trophy girl and Graham Standring second.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Ted looks relaxed in the pits at Western Springs before the start of the meeting.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
(a) Ted and his crew ready the midget for the nights racing, (b) the crew working on the car between races and (c) Ted and the crew celebrate another victory.
(Colin Irwin photos sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Ted (#5) duels with Sleepy Tripp in the Lendich #1 during the 1992-93 international series. Ted was always highly competitive with the American visitors.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Ted has his foot to the floor in the Beast Pontiac in 1992-93. In this, his last season, he won five midget features at Western Springs as well as the New Zealand Midget Car Championship.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Seven times NZ Champ, Ted waves to the crowd at his farewell at the end of the 1992-93 season.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
During the 1997-98 season at Western Springs, Ted did some demonstration laps in the restored Fussell and Cartwright Offenhauser (#7).
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Ted Tracey with his family at his induction into the New Zealand Speedway Hall of Fame in 2012. From L to R his children Shannon and Dylan, Ted and his wife Lynda.
(From the Kevin McIvor collection)
Max (“Butch”) Butterworth
Max Butterworth was born in 1947 and began racing TQs at Western Springs in the 1965-66 season. At that time, his older brother, Barry, was already a star in the midget division driving the Fussell and Cartwright Offenhauser. By the 1967-68 season Max had procured the coveted drive in the Ken Mullins-owned TQ #91 alongside Kerry Morris in #19. From 1967 through to 1969, Max was a backmarker in the TQ section and a topline driver. He finished third in the North Island TQ Championship in the 68-69 season and in the same season was highest point scorer in TQ features at Western Springs. During the winter of 1969, Max moved to Sydney and gained valuable experience in the midget division driving a number of different cars. In 1970, Max took over controls of the ex-Capitol Motors Chevy II (#27) after Barry purchased the ex-Blair Shepherd Edmunds Offy. Max was highly competitive and took out the 1970 World Speedcar Derby at the Sydney Royale in the Chevy II. While Barry returned to NZ for the 1971-72 season, Max remained in Sydney. For the 1971-72 season, Max wheeled the Eric Morton-owned Datsun speedcar, #24, as a team mate for Barry Pinchbeck. Later he drove for Billy Wells in his Volvo-powered speedcar #54. In the winter of 1975, Max returned to Auckland and built up a new midget (#12) powered by a Mazda rotary motor. He was fast and competitive in the car and drove it from 1975 through to 1979. For the 1979-80 and 80-81 seasons he was at the wheel of the ex-Bruin VW #14. He then took over driving chores in the Ken Mullins #22 VW and raced that until the end of the 88-89 season. Max, of course, raced in the outlaw events at Kumeu and in the CTRA events at Waikaraka Park and Meremere. Usually, he was at the wheel of the Mullins VW, but towards the end of his career he also raced sprintcars. He became very quick on the Meremere track and took out the 1988-89 Outlaw Easter National Sprintcar Championships.
Max was a highly competitive driver but characteristically, an unassuming and friendly man off-track. He was a fast, fair and consistent competitor and very seldom courted controversy. He left that to Barry! He was Auckland Midget Champion in 1979-80 and he also won the Coca Cola pointscore series that year. During his racing career, Max picked up many strong placings in big midget events (including 10 midget feature wins at Western Springs) and his topline performances throughout the late 70’s and early and mid-80’s at Western Springs earned him a place in the NZ midget team in the 1977-78, 80-81 and 81-82 seasons. Max certainly had a very successful Speedway career.
Max racing hard in one of the first TQ midgets he ever drove back in 1965.
(From the Des Harris collection)
Max posing in the Byron Shreeve-owned TQ (#34) in 1966-67. He drove the car in both 1965-66 and 66-67.
(From the Des Harris collection)
Max running TQ (#34) under Kevin Parkinson (#62) at Western Springs during the 1966-67 season.
(From the Des Harris collection)
For the 1967-68 and 68-69 seasons Max raced TQ #91 for Ken Mullins. In 1968-69 he won the Hyde Cup for highest cumulative points in TQ feature races at Western Springs.
(From the Des Harris collection)
Max ready to be push started in the Ken Mullins TQ #91 in the 1967-68 season at Western Springs. The crew are (L to R) Colin Crowe, Rangi Martin and Ken Mullins.
(Bruce Kent photo from http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?
fbid=437782692936158&set=a.437782549602839.93090.
434987526549008&type=3&theater)
The Ken Mullins team on the move. Backmarkers, Kerry Morris #19 and Max Butterworth #91 threading their way through the field.
(Bruce Kent photo from http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?
fbid=437785802935847&set=a.437782549602839.93090.
434987526549008&type=3&theater)
A great action shot of Max in #91 chasing Kevin Parkinson in the Byron Shreeve-owned TQ #34 during the 1968-69 season.
(Bruce Kent photo from http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?
fbid=437782652936162&set=a.437782549602839.93090.
434987526549008&type=3&theater
Max racing the ex-Capitol Motors Chevy II at the Sydney Royale. Barry gave it to him after purchasing the ex- Blair Shepherd Offenhauser for himself.
(http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?
fbid=504615092902987&set=a.337410902956741.85608.
337376802960151&type=1&theater)
Team Butterworth at the Sydney Showgrounds! Barry in the #26 Offy lines up next to Max in the #27 Chevy II.
(From: One Tough Dude, The Barry Butterworth Story by Alan Batt, Speedway Classics, Alan Batt, Christchurch, NZ)
Max is sitting in the Chevy II as Barry tinkers with the motor.
(From the Allan Batt collection)
Max running at Liverpool in the ex-Capitol Motors Chevy II #27 on the inside of George Tatnell at Liverpool.
(David Cumming photo, from Liverpool City Raceway. The Place of Pace by Tony Loxley, Full Throttle Publishing, Glenbrook, NSW, 20
Max (#27) chases George Tatnell (#6) who is driving the ex-Gus McClure (ex-Cascio) Offenhauser. George renumbered the car as #25 and it became thre Midford Offy.
(Bill Meyer photo from Just One More, The Speedway Photography of Bill Meyer by Wayne Meyer and Tony Loxley, Full Throttle Publications, NSW)
A report on the 1970 “World’s Speedcar Championship” held at the Sydney Royale which was won by Max (centre) driving Chevy II # 27 with Merle Bettenhausen second (R) and Garry Rush third (L).
(From Ghosts in the Bull Pens by Tony Loxley and Dennis Newlyn, Full Throttle Publications, NSW)
Max has the Chevy II fully crossed up at the Royale.
(http://macgor.proboards.com/thread/4165)
Max racing Barry’s Offy #26 in Sydney on the outside of Ron Mackay in the second Mackay (ex-Valentinna) Offy.
(https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=468005126631953
&set=gm.405696459531528&type=1&theater)
In Sydney, Max got the ride in the Eric Morton Datsun #24 for the 1971-72 season. Behind him is Alan Streator.
(Bill Meyer photo, from 1972 Australian Speedway Yearbook (ed. P. Webster), Pro Magazines Pty, Avalon Beach, NSW)
At the end of the 1971-72 season Barry Butterworth returned to Australia and Max raced the Edmunds Offy (#26). Here he leads Trevor Carnell onto the back straight at Western Springs.
(Bruce Kent photo from the Gordon McIsaac collection)
For the 1972-73 international season at Western Springs Max drove Barry’s second midget #1 (the ex F&C Offy with new bodywork). Here he is in a melee with Ron Wanless (#2) spun sideways and Trevor Carnell (#72) facing the wrong way.
(From the Kevin McIvor collection)
For the 1973-74 season in Sydney Max drove for Billy Wells in Volvo #54. Here he is running at the Royale on the outside of Ron Mackay in the Mackay Offenhauser.
(From Australian and New Zealand Speedway Racing News, No 15, October 1973)
An unhappy Max steps from the Wells Volvo uninjured after upending the car at the Royale.
(From Australian and New Zealand Speedway Racing News, No 15, October 1973)
In 1975 Max returned to Auckland to live. He built up the #12 midget, powered by a Mazda rotary motor and drove it from 1975-79. The car had a characteristic exhaust note that differed greatly from most of the other cars.
(From: http://macgor.proboards.com/index.cgi?
board=stockcarmia&action=display&thread=4207)
The rotary Mazda motor revved very hard and it was difficult to get the power down onto the ground through the dirt. Max admires the very wide right rear humper tyre he used to get traction.
(From http://www.trademe.co.nz/sports/sports-memorabilia/
motor-racing/photos-posters/auction-449118425.htm)
Max takes a lap of honour after another race win in the Mazda #12.
(https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=181366325311365
&set=o.184768618290981&type=3&permPage=1)
Max Butterworth decides it’s a bit hot in his Mazda-powered midget and its time to leave! (Western Springs, 1979-80).
(From the Kevin McIvor collection)
Max about to be pushed off in the Mazda at Mystery Creek
(From the Kevin McIvor collection)
During the 1980-81 season Max ran the ex-Bruin VW #14 with much success. He drove in the NZ midget team in this car.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Max (#14) goes around the outside of a fellow competitor at Western Springs.
(From the Des Harris collection)
Max Butterwoth leading Ray Alach and Bruce Drinkrow.
(From the Des Harris collection)
Max Butterworth (#14) leads Rich Vogler (#2) at Western Springs during the 1980-81 international season.
(From the Matt Sefont collection)
Max’s midget #14 in the pits at Kihikihi speedway with his brother Barrys’s car #21 in front.
(From https://www.facebook.com/barry.butterworth.21)
Max Butterworth (L) and Ken Mullins (R) pushing a car out onto the track. For the 1981-82 season Max raced a VW-powered midget (#22) for his old friend Ken Mullins.
(Alan Clark photo from the Marcel Facoory collection)
Max at speed in the Pepsi Cola-sponsored Ken Mullins VW midget at Western Springs during 1981-82
(From the Des Harris collection)
Max checking tyre pressures on the Mullins VW prior to racing. Max was in the victorious 1981-82 NZ Midget test team along with his brother Barry and Ted Tracey.
(Alan Clark photo from the Marcel Facoory collection)
For the 1982-83 season Max was again at the controls of the Ken Mullins Scat VW. He remained one of the back-markers at Western Springs.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz
Max (C) won the 1983 Levis Midget Car Grand Prix at Western Springs in the Ken Mullins VW. Other placegetters were (L) Jack Nazer and (R) Paul Rollinson.
(http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?
fbid=437785726269188&set=a.437782549602839.93090.
434987526549008&type=3&theater)
Max (#22) leads Maurice Cowling (#27) at Kihikihi during the 1983-84 season.
(From the Des Harris collection)
Max (#22) is a bit out of shape as he dices with Ted Tracey at Western Springs.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Max ready to carry the checkered flag around for a victory lap after yet another win in the 1982-83 season.
(http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?
fbid=437785812935846&set=a.437782549602839.93090.
434987526549008&type=3&theater)
Max at speed in the Mullins VW in the 1983-84 season. Max remained one of the leading drivers in the VW dominated class. Max won both the Goog Clark Memorial and the Levis Midget Grand Prix that season.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Max was a member of the MZ midget team and here he leads Americans Sleepy Tripp and Larry Rice during the teams racing.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Things didn’t always go to plan. Here Max spins the Mullins dub with Pat Johnson ahead.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Max sits in the Mullins Scat VW on the infield at Western Springs in the 1983-84 season.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
A happy Max in the cockpit with Rangi Martin standing and Ken Mullins crouching down at the rear.
(http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?
fbid=437785749602519&set=a.437782549602839.93090.
434987526549008&type=3&theater)
Max goes on a victory lap with the checkered flag at Western Springs in the 1983-84 season. At the 1984 Easter meeting, at Kumeu, Max recorded fastest lap time for a midget.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
For the 1984-85 season the Mullins VW was in Autex Snooper livery. Barry was no longer running his midget so the sponsorship went to Max.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Max was top points scorer in the midget division at Western Springs in the 1984-85 season winning the Lucus Series, Air NZ Trophy, Bardhal Trophy and was equal on points for the Team McMillan Ford Trophy.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Max leads Ted Tracey in the Golden Gun VW (#1) and Bruce Kennedy (#98) at Western Springs.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Max poses with the Mullins VW. His fast and consistent performances were a hallmark of his career.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Max in the Mullins VW at speed in the daylight at the Springs.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
A great action shot of Max at full nose in the Mullins VW which was in black livery for the 1985-86 season.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz)
Max in “discussion” with Speedway New Zealand Referee Carl Drever!
(From https://www.facebook.com/dreveraaron)
Max on the gas in the Mullins VW during 1985-86 season.
(Ken Mullins collection from https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?
fbid=165606693631645&set=a.129117960613852.1073741832.
100005469462254&type=1&theater)
Max, in 1986-87 runs up on the inside of Brett Horrobin in the Sunday News VW.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Max being pushed out onto the track just ahead of Ted Tracey (#5) in the 1986-87 season.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Max sits in the cockpit while Ken Mullins squats down beside his car. Standing are (L) Rangi Martin and (R) Barry B.
(http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?
fbid=437783392936088&set=o.192239297460554&type=3&theater)
Max running the Mullins VW in its 1986-87 livery at Western Springs.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
Here is Max early-on in the 1987-88 season racing at Western Springs. The season involved speedway racing at both Western Springs and CTRA racing at Waikaraka Park. Later in the season Max raced in CTRA in a Ray Alach owned midget.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
From time-to-time during CTRA events, Max drove Barry’s sprintcar. Here he is seen in the cockpit of sprintcar #21 during 1987.
(From the Des Harris collection)
Max shaking hands with USA Star Stan Fox on the infield at Western Springs during Stan’s 1989-90 tour down under.
(Alan Clark photo from the Marcel Facoory collection)
Max at full nose in the Mullins VW during the 1989-90 season. It was his last full season racing.
(Colin Irwin photo sourced from http://www.sap.net.nz/)
For the final meeting of the Sydney Royale Speedway in 1996 Max wheeled the restored Capitol Motors Chevy II in a demonstration run.
(https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=2330409038326
&set=o.184768618290981&type=3&theater)
Max Butterworth was inducted into the NZ Speedway Hall of Fame in September 2017. Max is seen here posing with his two children Jason (L) and Kylie (R) and at the Hall of Fame ceremony.
(From https://www.facebook.com/kylie.butterworthgillbanks)