Graham “Pirate” Wale

August, 8th 1942 - August 12th, 2011

It is with deep regret that we sadly announce the passing of Graham “Pirate” Wale.

Graham sadly passed at 7:30am on Friday August 12th, 2011 at the St.Peter’s Hospital in Hamilton Ontario, following a long battle with cancer. He passed peacefully in his sleep. Graham had just celebrated his 69th birthday on August the 8th.

Graham was well-known for his proud display of his home-town team the Poole Pirates in the UK, which was Graham’s birthplace. Graham gained the nickname “Pirate” in his new homeland of Canada, when he began riding speedway bikes at the tender age of 58.

The support to end from the Poole Pirate’s team manager Neil Middleditch, was one that was appreciated by all Graham’s family, friends and especially Graham, who was so thrilled that his personal friend, had taken to the time to keep in contact with him throughout his illness providing Graham with huge support and the boost that kept him going in his last few days!

Winning the Division 2 Championship was Graham’s highlight and he celebrated in the UK by meeting up with then UK champion Scott Nicholls, a memory he cherished very much! His retirement from racing just two years ago, was marred with a nasty crash, but his drive and support of Canadian Speedway continued onward and his role on the board of Directors of the Canadian Speedway Racing Association was very instrumental in the growth we see today! Graham’s support for other riders especially 15-year old Tommy Hensby was very evident when he spent hours of time riding and schooling Hensby in his early years of crafting his skill at the Paris Speedway track. Something he did without question or by request!

A true gentleman of the sport of speedway, who will be very sadly missed by all his fellow colleagues, riders and fans alike. A great guy who always gave time to his young fans at every event providing his smooth, happy charismatic way with everyone who came into contact with him.

Our sincere condolences go out to Graham’s wife Dulce, and her Daughter at this time!

(http://www.worldspeedway.com/artman/publish/article_17030.shtml)

Name: Graham Wale
Nickname: "Pirate"
Date of Birth: August, 8th 1942
Place Of Birth: Poole, England
Hometown: Mount Hope, Canada
Wife: Dulce (his greatest Fan)
Children: None
CSRA Rider Number: 10
Bike: Jawa
Model: 2-Valve / 4-Valve
Year: 1974 - 1984

Started Speedway: Cycle Speedway (England 1958) Canada 2002

Tracks Ridden: Poole Speedway (UK) Paris Speedway

Graham is one of the truly original nice guys of the track. A gentlemen of the track, the pits and to everyone he has contact with. He is always smiling and does a great job in his personal approach to helping everyone around him. All you can say is that he is a really great guy and if you get the chance at Paris Speedway, come and see for yourself after the racing! Graham is also a fanatical Poole Pirates fan!