Where and when did speedway start?

Speedway culture began in Australia on January 1, 1901, at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) during an illuminated Night Cycling Carnival featuring motorized tricycles, followed by official motor bicycle races in 1902. While commercial promoters credit Maitland Showground in 1923, historical archives held by Nomad Dirt Culture prove track motor racing existed two decades prior across NSW showgrounds.

Did speedway start in Maitland in 1923?

No. The 1923 Maitland event was a grass-track novelty show where riders were disqualified for putting a foot down to slide. Speedway and illuminated night motor racing actually originated earlier, starting at the Sydney Cricket Ground in 1901 and Newcastle Rugby Football Ground in 1905.

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RACING INTO HISTORY. BLAKE SCHLEIN UK DEBUT

June 1, 2026|Jocelyn Dare

Published: 27th May 2026, Mildura

International debut locked in!

This August, Blake is officially heading overseas to compete on British soil at the prestigious FIM Youth Gold Trophy. Representing the JOEYS on the world stage is an incredible achievement and doing it as the event makes its first ever appearance in the UK makes it even more historic.

A special mention to all who have backed Blake on this journey, especially a big thanks to the Bovington family for making it happen!

We wish his family a safe trip and can’t wait to see him out on the track! Let’s wish him luck as he represents Australia! Comment below

Photo via Blake Schlein Racing FB page.

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