Jay Springsteen

In his early years, Jay Springsteen and his brother Charles raced short tracks. "Chuck" ran a 360cc or bigger - and the younger brother Jay raced a smaller 250cc.  The lack of power to most racers would be a disadvantage, but Jay learned to make up seconds/lap with corner speed !  Holding the throttle wide open all the way around the track, steering with the rear wheel under full power - and pitching the bike sideways to scrub speed when necessary.  It helped hone his skills - soon becoming a top ranked Junior - and then Expert status.  The poster above celebrates his 1977 National Championship.  He won the previous year (1976) and won again in 1978 - A 3 time national champion.  Jay had a mysterious ailment that plagued him during his prime - causing him to miss races and forfeit points.  It was years until a smart physician finally diagnosed his problem - and he came back strong as ever !  Scott Parker is the king - but Springsteen (in my opinion) is the greatest flat track racer ever - due to his skill, stamina, longevity and promotion of the sport.  He's still goes fast as heck too . . .