A tribute banner illustration inspired by Rowley Park Speedway featuring bold vintage cartoon style racing graphics like sprint cars motorcycles In Memoriam

In Memoriam

In Memoriam: Honoring the Lost Speedway Drivers of Rowley Park

Rowley Park Speedway in Adelaide, South Australia, holds a storied place in the hearts of motorsport enthusiasts. From 1949 to 1979, it was a hub for thrilling races and the vibrant culture surrounding speedway racing. Yet, amidst the excitement and fervor, Rowley Park was also a place of profound tragedy. This article honors the brave drivers who lost their lives in pursuit of speed, courageously embodying the spirit of racing. May their memories endure in the legacy of Rowley Park Speedway.

Remembering the Fallen

Brian Bennett — Sidecar Racing (November 15, 1957)

Brian Bennett’s life was cut short during a sidecar race in 1957. His passing marked one of the earliest fatalities at Rowley Park Speedway, reminding all of the inherent risks sidecar racers face as they lean into turns and push their machines to the limit.

Steve Howman — Speedcar (January 4, 1959)

Steve Howman’s fatal accident on January 2, 1959, was a devastating blow to the Rowley Park community. Known for his skill in speedcar racing, Howman’s loss reminded the racing community of the ever-present risk that accompanies the thrill of speed.

Arn Sunstrom — Speedcar (January 24, 1959)

Arn Sunstrom’s tragic accident on January 23, 1959, took his life the following day. Known for his passion and skill, Sunstrom’s death left a lasting impact on the speedcar racing community and underscored the dangers of high-speed competition on the dirt track.

Gerry Gerald (UK) — T.Q. (F500) (March 6, 1959)

British driver Gerry Gerald met his end in March 1959, racing in a Three-Quarter Midget (T.Q.), also known as Formula 500. Coming from the UK, Gerald brought international flair to Rowley Park, and his untimely passing highlighted the devotion racers from all corners of the world shared.

Conrad Lang — T.Q. (F500) (November 9, 1962)

Conrad Lang was another racer in the Three-Quarter Midget class whose life was tragically cut short. His death in November 1962 is remembered as part of the high price that some drivers paid for their passion, pushing themselves and their machines to the edge.

Peter Stirling — Solo Racing (December 27, 1965)

Peter Stirling’s accident on December 17, 1965, and his subsequent passing just after Christmas cast a shadow over the holiday season. As a solo rider, Stirling demonstrated exceptional courage, riding without the protection of a sidecar or roll cage.

Harley Dillon — Speedcar (February 25, 1966)

Harley Dillon’s fatal accident in 1966 marked another somber chapter in Rowley Park’s history. Known for his competitive spirit, Dillon’s passing was deeply felt by the community and his fellow speedcar racers.

Charles “Harry” Denton — (November 9, 1967)

Harry Denton succumbed to injuries sustained in an accident on November 3, 1967. He passed away at Queen Elizabeth Hospital, leaving behind memories of his dedication to the sport and the raw talent he brought to the speedway.

Jimmy Gavaros — Solo Racing (January 23, 1970)

Jimmy Gavaros, a solo racer, lost his life in January 1970. His bravery in solo racing, where riders face the track alone, lives on as a testament to the commitment these drivers had to their sport.

Douglass Dyke — Sidecar Racing (February 10, 1989)

Although his fatal accident occurred years before, on March 14, 1977, Douglass Dyke’s passing in 1989 is remembered as part of Rowley Park’s legacy. Dyke’s dedication to sidecar racing and his resilience left a lasting mark on the sport.

Gerry Hussey — Solo Rider from the UK

Gerry Hussey, originally a solo rider from the UK, was part of the community of racers who brought international experience to Rowley Park. Though the details of his passing are less documented, his contribution to the track’s culture is cherished by all who knew him.

Harry Neale — Speedcar (February 6, 1959, at Claremont Speedway, WA)

Though not lost at Rowley Park, Harry Neale’s tragic death at Claremont Speedway in Western Australia serves as a reminder of the risks that speedway drivers face nationwide. His memory lives on in the broader Australian speedway community.

A Legacy Etched in the Dirt

The men who raced at Rowley Park Speedway knew the dangers of their sport but were drawn to it nonetheless. Their passion, courage, and love for speed continue to inspire those who remember them. Though Rowley Park closed in 1979, the legacy of these drivers and the sacrifices they made live on. Their names and their stories remain forever intertwined with the track’s rich history.

In memoriam, we honor Brian Bennett, Arn Sunstrom, Gerry Gerald, Steve Howman, Conrad Lang, Peter Stirling, Harley Dillon, Harry Denton, Jimmy Gavaros, Douglass Dyke, Gerry Hussey, and Harry Neale. May they rest in peace, their spirits forever part of the Rowley Park Speedway.

Rowley Park Speedway Fatalities….Brian Bennett / Sidecar 15 / 11 1957, Arn Sunstrom / Speedcar 24 / 01 / 1959 ( accident was the 23/1/59 ), Gerry Gerald ( UK ) / T.Q (F500) 6 / 3 / 1959, Steve Howman / Speedcar 4 / 1 / 1959 ( accident was 2/1/59), Conrad Lang / T.Q. (F500) 9 / 11 / 1962, Peter Stirling / Solo 27 / 12 / 1965 ( accident was 17/12/65 ), Harley Dillon / Speedcar 25 / 2 / 1966, Charles ( Harry ) Denton 9 / 11 / 1967 at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital. ( accident was 3/11/67 ), Jimmy Gavaros / Solo 23 / 1 / 1970, Douglass Dyke / Sidecar 10 / 2 / 1989 ( accident was 14/3/77 ) and Gerry Hussey who was origionally a solo rider who came to Rowley Park Speedway from the UK….  Harry Neale / Speedcar 6 / 2 / 1959 but not at Rowley Park Speedway instead at Claremont Speedway in Western Australia….