Bruce Penhall

Motorsports Hall Of Fame 2011
World Champion 1981 and 1982
World Pairs Champion 1981
World Team Speedway Championship 1982
U.S. Nationals Champion 1980, 1981
A.M.A. Motorcycle Hall of Fame 2008
British League Champion 1981
British League Pairs Champion 1978

Place of Birth: Balboa, California - USA
Date of Birth: May 10, 1957
Occupation: Joint Promoter at Industry Speedway - Actor / Offshore Powerboat Racer
Action Photos by: Scott Daloisio Stssprts@aol.com - Speedway Motorcycle Photos

Bruce at Industry in 2011 - Dorcey Wingo Photo

2011 - Inducted into The Motorsports Hall Of Fame

YouTube Bruce Penhall's speech at the Motorsports Hall of Fame Awards in Detroit

Below is from Bruce Penhall on Wikipedia

Bruce first rode Speedway when he was 16 at Irwindale Raceway on the American west-coast. From novice status, he quickly established himself in the US National Championships, twice finishing in the top three positions. In 1976 he toured Israel and in 1977 Australia and New Zealand, before being lured to Cradley Heath Heathens in 1978 by Dan McCormick and Derek Pugh.

On his Dudley Wood debut against Sheffield in a challenge match, he notched just a single point. Never again in his British career would he score less than four for the Heathens. In his second match - his league debut - he scored nine; within a month he clocked double figures and topped the score chart for the first time with 13; in July he took over as club captain following the departure of Bruce Cribb and hit his first Heathens maximum; and by the end of the year he had achieved a season average of over 9.00 points per match.

In 1979 he won the Master of Speedway competition around Europe, as well as becoming the first American holder of the Golden Helmet match race championship. He was runner-up to John Louis in the British League Riders Final and led Cradley to Inter-League Cup success and their highest ever league position. By 1980 there were more cup victories, along with SWAPA Overseas Rider of the Year, American National Champion, a first World Final appearance (scoring nine points).

The 1981 season was Penhall's all conquering year. At the World Final at Wembley, 92,500 people witnessed Penhall come from behind to pip both former World Champion Ole Olsen of Denmark and later another Dane Tommy Knudsen on the finish line. His only loss of the night was finishing second to England's Kenny Carter when he only needed to finish third to clinch the title. Also in 1981 Penhall partnered fellow American Bobby Schwartz to win the Speedway World Pairs Championship in Poland. He also led Cradley all the way to their first ever league title victory, topping the individual league averages on the way. On top of a clean sweep of all the SWAPA personality awards was a special citation from US President Ronald Reagan.

However, he had less than one year left in speedway before moving on, firstly to the world of Hollywood movies and later to powerboat racing (where he would become a world champion again). In 1982 he won the World Team Cup with the USA and then his one last speedway ambition was achieved – World Individual success on his home soil in America, when he won his second world title at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. He effectively retired on the rostrum.

Costa Mesa Program Cover - April 18, 1981

Costa Mesa - Bruce Penhall & Mike Bast	Costa Mesa Jun 11, 1982
1982 World Finals Dennis Sigalos - Bruce Penhall - Philly Collins	Costa Mesa - Bruce and the Great Harry Oxley
1981 California State Championship Penhall - Bobby Schwartz - Dave Sims - Duane Yarrow	1981 California State Championship Penhall - Mike Cursoso - Gene Woods
1981 California State Championship	1980 IMS - Allan Christian - Penhall
1981 IMS - Bruce - Dave DeTemple	1981 US Nationals Costa Mesa
1981 IMS - Bruce and Ladouceur	1981 IMS
1981 US Nationals Costa Mesa	1985 Costa Mesa Sam Ermolenko - Bruce
1981 or 1982 IMS Bruce and Sonny Nutter	1981 IMS Spring USA Team

Scott Daloisio's Daily Favorite Photos

Bruce Penhall: A Speedway Legend - From So Cal to World Championships

In April of 1980, a young and ambitious Bruce Penhall made his mark racing in So Cal, showcasing the talent that would eventually lead him to become a two-time World Speedway Champion. This moment was captured at IMS in San Bernardino about 16 months before Bruce clinched his first World Championship title at Wembley, setting the stage for a storied career in speedway racing.

Early Years and Rise to Stardom.
Bruce was born on May 10, 1957, in Balboa Island, California. His love for speed and competition manifested early in his life, leading him to pursue a career in speedway racing. Bruce's determination and natural talent quickly set him apart from his peers, allowing him to ascend the ranks of the sport rapidly. By 1980, he had already established himself as a formidable contender on the track, earning respect and admiration from fans and competitors alike.

World Championship Triumphs
Bruce's first World Championship win came in 1981 at Wembley Stadium in London. This victory was a testament to his hard work, dedication, and the unwavering support of his fans and team. The win was not just a personal triumph but also a significant achievement for American speedway racing, as Bruce became a symbol of the sport's growing popularity in the United States.
In 1982, Bruce solidified his legacy by winning his second World Championship. This back-to-back victory underscored his dominance in the sport and his ability to perform under pressure. His strategic racing style, coupled with his physical prowess, made him a formidable opponent on any track.

Life Beyond the Track
Bruce's influence extends far beyond his accomplishments on the speedway. Known for his charismatic personality and approachable demeanor, Bruce has always been a superstar off the track as well. He is renowned for his friendliness towards fans and media, always taking the time to sign autographs, pose for photos, and engage with those who admire his work. This genuine connection with people has endeared him to a broad audience, making him a beloved figure in the world of motorsports.

Acting Career and Personal Ventures
After retiring from professional racing, Bruce transitioned into acting, where he found success in both television and film. He starred in the popular TV series "CHiPs," further cementing his status as a versatile and multi-talented individual. His foray into acting allowed him to reach an even wider audience, showcasing his ability to excel in various fields.
Bruce has also been involved in numerous personal ventures, including business and philanthropic efforts. His commitment to giving back to the community and supporting charitable causes highlights his dedication to making a positive impact on society.

Legacy and Influence
Bruce's legacy in speedway racing is undeniable. As a two-time World Champion, he has set a benchmark for excellence in the sport. His achievements continue to inspire new generations of racers, and his contributions to speedway racing are celebrated around the world.
Beyond his racing accolades, Bruce's approachable nature and genuine interest in his fans' lives have made him a role model for aspiring athletes. His ability to balance professional success with personal integrity serves as a testament to his character and values.

Honors and Recognitions
Throughout his career, Bruce has received numerous honors and recognitions for his contributions to motorsports. He has been inducted into various halls of fame and has been the recipient of several prestigious awards. These accolades are a reflection of his enduring impact on the sport and his continued relevance in the motorsports community.

Conclusion
Bruce's journey from a young racer in So Cal to a two-time World Speedway Champion is a story of perseverance, talent, and unwavering dedication. His success on the track is matched only by his kindness and generosity off it. As a superstar both in and out of the racing world, Bruce Penhall's legacy will continue to inspire and captivate fans for generations to come.