NGK supports special speedway event
Speedway superstars turned out in force to support the first-ever Joe Hughes Invitational meeting, sponsored by NGK Spark Plugs.
The event in memory of the former rider and NGK parts distributor attracted a big crowd at Monmore Green, Wolverhampton, and raised funds for Cancer Research UK and new training facilities for young riders.
As title sponsor, NGK invited 50 distributor and garage customers to the meeting which saw American double-World Champion Greg Hancock, who is sponsored by NGK Spark Plugs (UK) Ltd, and 1993 World Champion Sam Ermolenko compete plus appearances on the sidelines by current World Champion Chris Holder, who is currently injured, and ex-champ Peter Collins
Greg said: “I am delighted to be a part of the meeting. Joe Hughes was always a great help to me in my career and really assisted me in getting to know the European scene when I moved here in 1989. Joe and his whole family were of enormous help and I know so many guys who speak so highly of the man.
“It was a very sad moment when we heard he’d passed away last year and when I heard there was going to be a meeting in his honour there was never any question that I wouldn’t appear.”
Fellow Californian Sam donned his leathers for the first time in more than a year to take part in the event.
He said: “Joe was a great guy so it really means a lot for me to take part in the event. His son Morgan was my mechanic for a number of years so I go way back with the family. When Morgan asked me if I’d like to ride I was happy to say yes. Joe was a real legend.”
Joe Hughes was well known in the Speedway world both as a former rider and then latterly as a specialist parts supplier, running the purpose-built Joe Hughes International warehouse and showroom in Derby.
Morgan Hughes said: “On behalf of my family I want to say a big thank you to everyone who has helped put on this event. We have enjoyed a long and successful relationship with NGK over the years and it is brilliant that they have sponsored the event.
“To have so many fantastic riders compete at the meeting has been tremendous and it is especially pleasing that Greg has been able to take part.”
Morgan praised NGK Spark Plugs (UK) Ltd Sales Representative John Money for his part in helping organise the event.
NGK Spark Plugs (UK) Ltd had a stand at the meeting manned by its BoxClever girl Sam Parker where NGK merchandise was given away in exchange for donations to Cancer Research UK.
Proceeds from the night will be shared by the charity and UK Junior Speedway, which will supply purpose-built junior speedway bikes for youngsters to use at the Burton-upon-Trent Speedway training track.
Gerard Irving, NGK Spark Plugs (UK) Ltd Marketing Manager, who attended the meeting, said: “Joe Hughes was a much valued NGK customer over a number of years so it was a privilege to support the meeting and also to help raise funds for such good causes.”
The Joe Hughes Invitational was won by Wolverhampton’s Freddie Lindgren who worked his way from third to first to triumph over NGK-sponsored Darcy Ward and team colleague Ricky Wells in a thrilling event final. There was also a special demonstration ride by Greg Hancock’s sons Wilbur (8) and Bill (5).
For more information about NGK Spark Plugs (UK) Ltd and its products and services, please visit the website at www.ngkntk.co.uk