The Final Night at Rowley Park Speedway

The Final Night at Rowley Park Speedway: April 6, 1979

On April 6, 1979, Rowley Park Speedway in Adelaide, South Australia, hosted its final race meeting. For thirty years, the track had been the heart of South Australian speedway racing, drawing crowds every Friday night to witness thrilling races and cheer on local legends. The final event was both a celebration of Rowley Park’s legacy and a bittersweet farewell for fans and drivers alike.

A Night to Remember

The atmosphere was electric as thousands of fans packed into the stands, eager to witness the final laps at Rowley Park. The program for the night featured a variety of events that showcased the diversity and excitement that the track was known for. The event included races across several classes, including Sprintcars, Speedcars (Midgets), and Solos, and featured both local and visiting drivers.

The night opened with a parade lap, allowing past drivers to make one last appearance on the track. Nostalgia filled the air as cars and bikes that had graced Rowley Park over the years took to the dirt one final time, honoring the drivers and vehicles that had helped shape the track’s history.

Key Races and Results

Sprintcar Feature Race

The Sprintcar feature race was one of the most anticipated events of the evening. Local legend Garry Rush, who was already an established figure in Australian sprintcar racing, took to the track alongside other top drivers. Known for his skill and fearless approach, Rush gave a stellar performance, thrilling the crowd as he maneuvered through the field. Ultimately, he claimed victory, solidifying his place as one of the greatest drivers in Rowley Park’s history.

Speedcar (Midget) Main Event

Speedcars, also known as Midgets, were a staple at Rowley Park, and the final main event in this class was fiercely contested. Barry Pinchbeck, a crowd favorite and a regular competitor at Rowley Park, was determined to leave his mark on the last night. After a close race, Pinchbeck emerged victorious, taking the checkered flag to the cheers of the crowd. His win was seen as a fitting tribute to the iconic speedcar division that had been a cornerstone of Rowley Park for decades.

Sidecar Challenge

The sidecar division was a unique and thrilling component of Rowley Park Speedway, known for its high-speed, two-man racing teams. The final sidecar race featured intense competition, with local sidecar champions battling it out for a place in history. The duo of Bill Barrows and his passenger John Peters showcased their skill and coordination, winning the final sidecar race at Rowley Park. Their victory was celebrated as a testament to the bravery and skill of sidecar racers, who had always been a fan favorite at the track.

Solo Motorcycle Races

Rowley Park’s solo motorcycle events had long been a showcase for both local and international talent. The final solo races featured some of the best riders from South Australia and beyond, including Jimmy Gavaros, who had made a name for himself on the solo circuit. Gavaros put on an impressive display, taking the win in the solo class. His victory capped off the legacy of solo racing at Rowley Park, honoring the speed and courage of the riders who raced without the protection of a sidecar or roll cage.

The Final Lap

As the final race concluded, there was a sense of finality that swept over the crowd. The last checkered flag fell, marking the end of an era. Drivers, officials, and fans gathered for a final ceremony, with speeches from past champions and Rowley Park’s long-serving officials, who shared memories and thanked the fans for their loyalty.

In a touching tribute, a lone car took to the track for a slow lap, carrying the checkered flag as the crowd rose to their feet in applause. This symbolic final lap was a farewell not just to the speedway but to the community and culture that Rowley Park had created over its three decades of operation.

Legacy of Rowley Park Speedway

The closure of Rowley Park was a significant moment in South Australian motorsport history. The site was eventually redeveloped, but the memories of the track live on through reunions, memorabilia, and the stories of those who attended that final night. Rowley Park left an indelible mark on the lives of fans and drivers, and its spirit continues to inspire a new generation of speedway enthusiasts.

For those who were there, April 6, 1979, will always be remembered as a night of nostalgia, excitement, and heartfelt goodbyes. The legacy of Rowley Park Speedway endures, not just as a part of South Australia’s history but as a symbol of the community’s passion for speed, skill, and the thrill of the race.