Simmonds and Bill Ivy

Dear CR Thanks for the excellent article on Dave Simmonds, in issue 191, a much underrated rider. I first saw Dave race at Brands Hatch, Race of the South in 1968; he contested 125, 250 and 350 races. A fourth place in the 125 race was his best result on the day, the 125 winner was Bill Ivy from Phil Read, with Stuart Graham third. Exalted company indeed! In the same issue, an excellent picture of Bill Ivy at Oulton Park. Bill also contested the Race of the South. Being at the time a Yamaha works rider, Bill turned out on a Seeley in the 500 race. Would not happen today, would it?! Bill finished fourth in that 500 race, the winner being Agostini, from Alan Barnett and Dave Croxford. Two things I remember from that meeting: total lack of any sponsors’ stickers on any bikes and most people at that time could not pronounce the word Kawasaki! Happy days! Graham West Midhurst Sussex

Hello Graham, terrific memories and so rightly put about brands and riders today. No matter how much they might fancy a go on something else the modern lads are mithered by lawyers and legal actions at most career turns! Tony