A Tribute to Simon Wigg


1960Simon Wigg 2000

Championship Record

1981 - British 500cc Grasstrack
1982 - British Masters Grasstrack
1983 - British Masters Grasstrack
1985 - World Longtrack
1988 - British Speedway Final
1989 - World Longtrack
1989 - British Masters Grasstrack
1989 - British Speedway Final
1989 - Speedway World Team Cup(as captain)
1990 - World Longtrack
1990 - British Masters Grasstrack
1993 - World Longtrack
1994 - World Longtrack

If you would like to add your Tribute to Simon please email me marc@grasstrack.freeserve.co.uk

Name : Kirsty
From : West Yorkshire, currently residing in France
Comments : At 18 years old, I have the fondest memories of Simon Wigg ever since I was a little girl,dragged along to Speedway meets by my mum and grandad. Little did I know that the first racer I was going to meet would change my perspective on Speedway and effectively change my life.
On a particularly cold and rainy day at Odsal Top, and having been refused a huge bag of sweets, Mum said we could walk on and see some of the bikes. I have no idea how old I was but the warm smile and muddy leathers did it for me instantly and I soon became, or so I thought at the time, Simon Wigg's biggest fan. Never again did I whinge about the weather or having cold feet on the bus on the way home and the only person I would ever scream for out on the track was Wiggy. His photo has been on my wall ever since that day. I was devastated when I learnt of his death and have never been to a meet since, it was only after coming across his picture on this website that I've decided to go to the Danish grand prix next year.
Name : Geoff Wiltshire .29
From :
Comments : Simon you were my main target in life to catch . Even thou we were compeditors you always said i have it in me . Our days at Weymouth were fab the grass was somthing only some can dream about . You my old freind will always be my hero cheers .See you at the tapes.
Name : Andy Haddleton
From : NSK-RHP
Comments : We sponsored Simon for a number of years and, although not a huge speedway fan, I got to really appreciate his contribution to your sport. And let's not forget what he did for Britain's overall sporting achievements. How many times do we get a 5-times world champ?
But even with his crazy racing schedule all over Europe he always had time for his sponsors, his fans and young riders learning their trade. His passing is a tremendous loss. A truly lovely man. Charlie, if you see this, our thoughts are with you and the children.
Name : Barry Bowles
From : North Notts.
Comments : In my time as a Referee - 20 years - I can honestly say that I never came across a nicer man or rider than SIMON WIGG. He was a true professional and a true gentleman, although that may sound a little old fashioned today. He always sought out the referee before a meeting on behalf of his team. He usually asked if he could walk the track with me. He was articulate, intelligent and good company. Right from the start of his career in the early 80's he stood out as rider, not least in his behaviour and professional attitude to the sport and the rules and regulations.
I have thought hard and checked a few records, and can honestly say that I never once had to penalise him in any way, either by way of caution over the phone, exclusion or fine. There arn't' many top riders who I can say that about -- he stands there alongside Dennis Sigalos and Michael Lee in this respect. I have been out of touch with speedway for 2 or 3 years now but The sad news about Simon was such a terrific shock. My heart, and that of my wife Val who also knew Simon, goes out to his wife Charline and to his children Abigail and Ricki.
Name : Andy Sell
From : Bristol
Comments : Simon was a person who reset the standards in our sport. He was a wonderful influence on all those that he came into contact with. Both in his attitude and professionalism. He will be sadly missed.
Rest in peace now Simon, God bless you.
Name : Barry Woodruff
From : Bristol
Comments : Since I began grasstrack in 1978 it was always a pleasure to watch the messia in action. He will be truley missed by so many people. My thoughts are with his family at this very sad time.
Name : Frank Pizzey
From : Halesowen, West Midlands
Comments : The Golden Boy of Britsh speedway, gone, and terribly sad that it should end this way. The thoughts of all fans will be with Simon's wife and children. Cradley supporters, my wife and I remember the great days in '83, 8.8 average and all. Thanks for then and for everything Simon. God bless
Name : ROB CAMERON
From : Nr Brands Hatch,UK
Comments : I really enjoyed racing and "drinking" with such a genuine bloke he will be sadly missed.
Name : Glyn Booton
From : England
Comments : How sad it is to hear of Simon's sad death. Thoughts and wishes to all his friends and family. Thanks for all the fun and pleasure you gave us.
Name : David Ashcroft
From : Manchester
Comments : Very sad news hard to believe.
Name : Louwe Renkema
From : Holland
Comments : You were the best. We will miss you.
Name : Ingemar Gustavsson
From : Sweden
Comments : Rest in peace.
Name : Nico Moors
From : Zolder, Belgium
Comments : I have seen Simon several times at our grasstrack meeting in Alken. Besides a great sportsman he also had a great personality. My thougts are with his wife, family and friends.
Name : Brian Best
From : Peterborough
Comments : I would like to thank Simon for bringing myself and many other grass track/Speedway fans such pleausre over his career. I have raced in the same grass track meetings as Simon in the past and remember his first meeting at Peterborough speedway with Weymouth. Simon will alway`s live on in our memory a True champion to the end.
Name : Paul Collins
From : Ellesmere Port
Comments : Simon will be sadly missed, Simon always gave his all in racing , and will be a hard act to follow.
Name : Stuart Luscombe
From : Poynton, Cheshire
Comments : With regret from Falcons fans everywhere.
Name : Keith Packer
From : Coventry
Comments : The first time I saw Wiggy was back in his Weymouth Speedway days. He was a great bloke then as well as an obvious talent. I was fortunate enough to see him around the World on Grass and Sand Tracks and he was always the most approachable guy you could hope to meet. He was a true gent who'll be missed all around the world.
Name : Gareth Bemister
From : Bournemouth, England
Comments : I am 16 years old and have been going to Grass Track all my life. As long as I can remember I have wanted to be the next 'Simon Wigg'. The man was an idol in our humble sport. A true ambassador and he should, and I'm sure will be tributed as the best Grass Track rider ever.
I would like to offer my condolences to his very young family and wish them well for the future.
Name : Wim Van Den Berg
From : Rotterdam, Netherlands
Comments : For me Simon Wigg was a real TOPPER. I spoke to him several times, he was such a kind person. May he rest in peace. Wim
Name : Gerd Hubrich
From : Bochum, Germany
Comments : Everybody knew about Simons illness but nobody thought that the end was so near. We are all very sad, in our thoughts we are with Simons wife Charlie and the children Abigail and Rickie.
Rest in peace, Simon.
Name : G. Llewellyn
From : Shrewsbury
Comments : YOU WERE THE BEST SIMON.
Name : Les, Trevor & Ronnie Steward
From : Basildon, Essex
Comments : We all loved & respected Simon, his exciting riding style, thrilled us where ever he raced. On our trips abroad he always had time for a chat, and was always willing to offer advice, a truly great lad, who will always have a special place in our hearts, he was a unique man who will never be replaced.
Name : Nicole
From : Sheffield
Comments : You will be dearly missed by your family but mostly by your fans. We all love you Simon and we will never forget you. Love you XXXXXXXXXX.
Name : Peter Nahlin
From : Sweden
Comments : SORRY TO SEE YOU LEAVE WAY TO EARLY. I'M SURE GOD HAS A RACEJACKET FOR YOU IN HEAVEN. HE CAN'T ASK FOR A BETTER SKIPPER IN HIS TEAM
Name : Mike Brown
From : Wiltshire UK
Comments : "and all that you take with you is what you leave behind"

Happy memories - that toothy smile - the way he would always recognize you in a crowd and come over and say Hello! - the fact that although blessed with an abundance of talent he was never big-headed and never lost touch with his fans, whatever their age group - the quality of his riding- the affection that he received because of his gentlemanly behaviour - the courage he showed in the last stages of his tragically shortened life - these are a few of the things that he has left behind and will ensure his name will never be forgotten. We'll miss you mate - the world of Grass Track, Speedway and Long Track will not be the same again.

Name : Susanna Ferry
From : Daventry, Northamptonshire
Comments : Truly a great rider, always exciting and a great role model for the kids of today. Will be sadly Missed.
Name : Deano
From : Oxford
Comments : Thanks for the great times you gave us, many people go through life to be appreciated by so few, you though were appreciated by so many.
Name : The Abbotts
From : Rugby
Comments : We were lucky enough to have seen Wiggy at his best at Oxford. Thanks for the memories a very big loss to those fortunate enough to have come into contact with him.
Name : Michael Farrant
From : Milton Keynes
Comments : To one of the most admired and enthusiastic speedway riders who ever donned green leathers, god bless Simon. We the speedway world will miss you.
Name : Tom Rambousek
From : Pardubice, CZ
Comments : Thanks for all you have done for speedway. Bye-bye friend, TOM.
Name : Adrian & Des West
From : Adelaide, South Australia
Comments : Has left us with lasting memories of his amazing talents on a Speedway Motorcycle. R.I.P.
Name : PAUL & JACKIE HAWKINS
From : BEDFONT MIDDX
Comments : IT WAS ALWAYS SUCH A JOY TO WATCH SIMON, HE WAS A REAL PROFESSIONAL AND ALWAYS HAD TIME FOR THE FANS. HE WILL BE FONDLY REMEMBERED AND GREATLY MISSED. OUR CONDOLENCIES TO SIMON`S FAMILY, HE WAS TRUELY ONE OF THE GREATS.
Name : Roy Dugdale
From : Cheshire
Comments : I have raced with Simon many years ago, late seventies and early eighties on Grasstrack. I often went to watch him at the Ace of Aces and he always had the time to say hello and remember the old days when we were alot younger. I was deeply upset to hear of his death and he will be greatly missed by us ex grasstrackers up Cheshire. Myself, John Cox and Steve Jenkins. Our sympathy goes to all of his family. He was a wonderful person to know.
Name : Matt Saggus
From : Gosford, Australia
Comments : A man I only knew as Simon Wigg grass track racer, an idol of mine from child hood. It wont be the same watching the video tapes of old races any more. If there is re incarnation I wonder what you would be. Condolences to family, Goodbye.
Name : Tony F
From : Kent
Comments : Simon has gone to the great long track in sky. May he rest in peace. My thoughts are with his family.
Name : Roger Kennell
From : Hadleigh, Suffolk
Comments : It was with a real sense of shock to read in the national newspaper this week(Daily Telegraph) of the passing of Simon Wigg. I firstly watched his brother Julian ride on the grass, then Simon himself, and watched his rapid progress, especially in grass tracking. Often he was in a class of his own, others put in the effort but could not match Simon from the gate or during the race period. Occasional machine failures at critical times robbed him of even more victories. I especially remember him at the Berks Bonanza, at the former river side track. Once, he was ahead in all of the qualifying races, but had to leave before the finals for a speedway commitment that evening. Perhaps because he was so dominant, one was always cheering someone else on to try to beat him. Perhaps though, this is the biggest complement he could have from a fan of Grass Track. Following the report of his death, a few days later the Daily Telegraph also wrote an obituary with a photograph. A fitting tribute indeed to be in the national press. Thank you Simon for some great racing, and condolences to his family.
Name : Andy Wedlake
From : Cornwall
Comments : So proud to race on the same grasstrack circuit with such a legend. Champion of champions, brilliant, untouchable. Kindest regards.
Name : The Croft Family
From : Dorset
Comments : We have seen Simon ride grasstrack and speedway for many a year. What great pleasure he gave. From a raw novice on the grass and speedway to a true world beater. At this sad time our thoughts go out to his family.
Name : Adrian Pavey
From : Whitehaven, Cumbria
Comments : Thanks for all the memories Simon, you were the greatest track rider of all time - nuff said!
Name : Sean Dewis
From : England
Comments : Great loss and a great rider
Name : Gary Southgate
From : Biggleswade, Beds
Comments : Simon will be greatly missed not only by those Grasstrack supporters in this country but also by his many fans on the continent. As members of the 500cc sidecar association racing in the same meetings as Simon all the members of the club found him to be the most professional and also approachable solo rider. His great skills will never be forgotten but I think the abiding memory of many people will be his broad grin and happy smile.
The thoughts of all our members are with his family at the moment. GOOD BYE SIMON, thanks for allowing us to see your talents and skills. The 500cc Sidecar Association.
Name : Ken Davies
From : Liverpool
Comments : There are not many riders of Simon Wiggs achievements throughout his riding career. My heart goes out ot his family at this time.
Name : Kevin Austin
From : Cambs, England
Comments : One of the BEST. RIP Simon, you will be missed.
Name : The Yeadon family
From : Halifax
Comments : So sorry to hear of the sad loss of Simon He was a true professional in his sport and a genuine person. He always had time for his fans which I know they appreciated. He will be sadly missed. Our thoughts are with his family at this sad time.xxxxxx.
Name : Justin Bailey
From : Cradley
Comments : Simon; thanks for many years of enjoyment; God bless you.
Name : The Braddon Family
From : Markyate
Comments : Wiggy - Simply the best!!!
Name : Alec & Di Wain
From : GRASA
Comments : Simon, in the words of the song, simply the best, better than all the rest, better than anyone, anyone I've ever met. A diamond geezer!!!
Name : Tina, Jessica and Simone
From : Stevenage
Comments : Thanks for being a great rider and person, we have had years of great grass track, speedway and longtrack with you. Gone but never forgotten. Our thoughts go out to Charlie Abi Riki Jullian and the Wigg familly
Name : Gary Hiett
From : Swindon
Comments : Simon you were an insperation not only for me and my son's but anyone else that was connected with our great sport. We will all miss you. God Bless
Name : Lindsay Kier
From : Perth, Western Australia
Comments : So sad to hear that Simon lost his battle. My condolenses to all his family, especially Jules, whom I raced against in the seventies. Not only was Simon a great rider, but an all round great bloke. We will always remember that infectious smile.
Name : G. Ran Flood
From : sweden
Comments : We was driving in the same team in sweden 1990-91 in kumla Indianerna. He was a really good driver and a really good friend to me, he helped me alot. I felt sad to hear that you are no longer with us. Rest in peace.
Name : Norbert
From : Germany
Comments : He was a great rider. I'm so blue that he leave us. Good bye Wiggy.
Name : Alan and Karen Kingswell
From : Southampton
Comments : Simon, a great rider and ambassador for the sport. A true champion, you will be missed by speedway and grasstrack enthusiasts everywhere.
Our condolences to your family.
Name : Ben Ilsley
From : Winchester
Comments : I would just like to give out all my sympothy to all his family, he was a great asset to are sport and he will be terribly missed. He could always spare time for a chat and that is why he was not only a popular rider but he was a popular person, so thankyou for some great years and you will be terribly missed.
Name : Paul Norman
From : Banbury
Comments : Quite simply "THE BEST".
Name : Alan and Karen Kingswell
From : Eastleigh, Hants
Comments : Simon, sadly missed, always remembered. A great rider and ambassador for our sport. A true champion. R.I.P.
Name : Nick Dibben
From : Somerset England
Comments : Having been a grasstrack supporter for over 30 years. I remember my visits to the Westren Winner meetings with my dad. And watching a certain Simon Wigg, who was only a boy his self. It was very easy to spot that certain something Simon had that other riders did not. The only word I can use is CLASS. Can I offer my sympathy to all Simons family. Words help at this time, but thoughts help to, I will not forget the many times I watched Simon riding, and will always feel privilaged to have seen him riding.
Name : Rudi Hagen
From : Germany
Comments : I am so sad losting the greatest ever grasstracker and smiling friend. Good bye Simon.
Name : Dancing Cloud
From : Kumla, Sweden
Comments : He used to ride for our club in sweden,what can I say the best teammate ever, the speedway sports definitly genleman and ambassador.
Name : Ian Checketts
From : Bordeaux France
Comments : Simon was a great person, and was dedicated to his sport, he gave so much pleasure to so many. He was a real professional and will be greatly missed, indeed, the sport will take a long, long time to recover from this tragedy. RIP Simon
Name : Lars B Dicker
From : Sweden
Comments : Simon used to ride in our club in sweden, he was a very popular rider, a real gentlemen, and a great ambassador for the sport. It's very sad that you're not with us any more. Rest in peace."
Name : NEIL TUSON
From : Co.WEXFORD IRELAND
Comments : FAREWELL WIGGY I ONLY SAW YOU RIDE A FEW TIMES BUT YOUR ABILITY AND TRUE LOVE FOR THE SPORT ARE THE ONE THING I WILL ALWAYS REMEBER. YOU WILL BE GREATLY MISSED
Name : DANIEL THEOBALD
From : RINGWOOD
Comments : WELL DONE SIMON, YOU ARE THE MAN
Name : Steve Smith
From : Flamstead, St Albans
Comments : Simon Wigg was one of the sports most professional and respected riders ever to grace Grass Track, Speedway and longtrack Circuits.He will be a great loss to the sport and may never be replaced. I had many dealings with Simon, he was an absolute gentleman with a tremendous streak for winning. My wife and family join me in this tribute to a truly wonderful friend and fellow sportsman.
Name : Mel
From : Gloucester
Comments : Rest in peace Simon you were a great person and a fantastic grasstrack and speedway rider. I hope you are now with god.
Name : Steve Watkinson
From : ringwood hampshire
Comments : Having watched 'Wiggy' ride all over the world, my thoughts go out to his family, and just to say what great ammount of joy, pleasure and entertaiment he has given me watching Simon ride since the day's of Weymouth. 'What a great ambassodor to grasstrack and speedway' missed but not forgotten.
Name : Alan Cross "Spannerman
From : Linford, Essex
Comments : God bless you and your family. And thanks for the chance to see you race. Alan.
Name : Patrick Tison
From : London
Comments : Simon Wigg was a star in his chosen sport. I saw him race several time in Germany, he was hugely popular with the crowd, a respected opponent, and a true ambassador for the sport and his country. Nobody could underestimate Simon when he was at the start of a race: he was talented, competitive and always courteous. His achievement speaks for him: 5 times World Champion. His demise is a huge blow to the sport, his family and friends. Rest in peace, Simon.
Name : Seppo
From : Finland
Comments : Once met, always in my mind, R.I.P
Name : Gerard Lynch
From : Halifax
Comments : When Wiggy rode for the Dukes in the early 90's he was a star, not just on the track, but off as well. No matter if he was setting off to go abroad that night for a lontrack/grasstrack meeting he would sign any autograph and answer any questions. He always gave 100% on the track. My best memory of Wiggy was in 1991, when we went to Cradley Heath in th e2nd leg of the K O Cup and he basically won th etrophy for the Dukes with a near faultless display. There will never be another
Name : Thomas Schade
From : Bonn, Germany
Comments : Please let his family know that he has been a fair and friendly (sports)man who we all will miss.
Name : Trevor Bird
From : Newcastle
Comments : Simon was not only one of the best Grasstrack riders I have ever seen, he was undoubtedly the friendliest. He had time and a smile for everyone. I will never forget how he drove all night to take part in the Berkshire Bonanza which in all honesty was a small meeting compared to the one he had ridden in the day before in Germany. He will always be remembered as the last Ace of Aces. It was meant to be. Every Grasstrack I go to he will be sadly missed. Please let there be bike racing in heaven for him.
Name : Ged
From : Manchester
Comments : Simon you gave so much you will be missed GOD BLESS.
Name : John and Craig Nethercott
From : Exeter
Comments : Thank you for the good times that you brought to Exeter and the way you enthralled the falcons fans - From John.
Simon - Thank you for taking the time to have your photo taken with me at Exeter when you were so ill. It takes pride of place in our living room. Love Craig Nethercott - age 9 - Exeter Aces Cycle Speedway club.
Name : David
From : Oxford
Comments : A legend on track, consumate professional and one of life's nice guys. Our thoughts go to his family & friends. RIP Simon, you will be sadly missed.
Name : MICK CAVE
From : BURGESS HILL
Comments : MY THOUGHTS ARE WITH HIS WIFE AND FAMILY
Name : Helen Wiggins
From : Milton Keynes
Comments : Although I never know Simon, I have heard some wonderful things about him, and I know that he will be missed dearly. Not only by speedway fans, but by his family and friends. Simon may you rest in peace.
Name : Neil Hiscock
From : Trowbridge, Wilts
Comments : This man was simply the best.
Name : Brian Hiscock
From : Warminster, Wilts
Comments : You gave me so much pleaser when I saw you ride and things will never be the same without you
Name : Stephen Mcnally
From : Berwick"
Comments : Simon did so mutch for speedway everybody will miss him but nowone will forget the man in the green lethers GODSPEED
Name : Dave Lewis
From : Gosford, NSW, Australia
Comments : Dear Simon. In 1987 I took my stepson Craig to the Speedway Royale at the Sydney Showground for a "one off" International race meeting. At the time he was an avid surfer and rugby union footballer with no interest in motorcycle racing. You won the meeting that night and Craig who was 13 at the time asked if he could have a look at some of the bikes up close, so I brought him around to the rear of the pits. While I was explaining some finer points of a speedway bike, you walked out of the pits and I introduced him to you and asked if you'd sign his program which you kindly did. Craig is 27 now and married and has been a keen follower of all forms of motorcycle sport since that night. He currently owns an R1 Yamaha road bike. I know also from that night Craig and I became closer as we both had a common interest. Craig still reminds me of the night he met Simon Wigg. I just wanted to thank you for making a young boy very happy and an old dirt track rider very proud that a CHAMPION took the time. I'll buy you a beer next time you're in Australia. Dave and Craig
Name : DAVID STEVENS
From : NEWCASTLE AUSTRALIA
Comments : A TRUE CHAMPION AND A REALLY NICE GUY. WE SEND OUR DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO SIMONS FAMILY AND WE WILL NEVER FORGET HIM FROM THE STEVENS FAMILY DAVID JAYE DAINE
Name : Colin and Sheila Read
From : Poole
Comments : We're just ordinary spectators - Simon will never be forgotten by us for his performances at the Western Winner. Those wonderful long and lazy summer meetings of the 70s were such a wonderful showcase for his unique mastery of the grass. All grass track will miss him.
Name : Jeff Boardman
From : EX Long-Eaton track staff
Comments : I am pleased to have known Simon for many years, through Speedway and Grasstrack and send my condolences to his family and relatives. Simon always had a grin even when things were at a low and lean time in his life. When he rode for Long-Eaton he never seemed the same Simon we knew from passed years, but always grinned and carried on as a true racer only knows how. GOD BLESS SIMON

If you would like to add your Tribute to Simon please email me marc@grasstrack.freeserve.co.uk