Dave Smith - "Smiffyman"
I live in Kent, UK and have been following motorsport for over 35 years. I first became involved with oval racing in the late 70’s when my Late Uncle who was a mechanic for National Hot Rod Legend Barry Lee, took me along to Wimbledon and Arlington stadiums. Spurred on by these trips, I acted as mechanic for a good friend Colin Brooks who raced mini’s at the now defunct Crayford stadium in Kent. Helped by Colin and ex- Spedeworth superstox driver Ron Francis, I built my own mini rod and competed for two seasons with some success. When the money ran out, Colin moved up into Hot rods and enjoyed success with a succession of home built cars. When he immigrated to Wales, I took up photography and have spent many years on both sides of the fence, producing materials for magazines and websites in the UK. I helped support Malcolm Foskett who won the National Super rod title in 2003 and the following year ‘Team Foskett’ toured a selection of Canada’s tracks which was organised by Rick Young.
This marked a turning point for me, as I now fly across the pond to watch Sprints & modifieds at Oshweken Canada & various tracks in Florida USA.
I am the official track photographer for the Rolling Thunder Shows that run at Arena Essex raceway and support the UK Sprint cars whenever possible.
2009 turned out to be a bad year due to ill health, but I’m hoping that 2010 will be better, armed with a new camera and bags of enthusiasm I hope to be able to produce some more interesting photos for people to enjoy.
13.968.6410
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