Kevin Holden Speedway [portable] Here

While attempting to overtake Reading’s Bob Humphreys for third place, Holden lost control on the first bend and slid into the outside fence. Although the fall appeared relatively minor, an inquest revealed that Holden had suffered a (a main blood vessel of the heart), which likely occurred just before or during the impact. He was pronounced dead at the track, leaving behind a wife and two children.

Nestled in an industrial area of Placentia, this outdoor asphalt track is tight, technical, and surprisingly fast. It is not a wide, forgiving layout. You will need to use your brakes (a novelty for casual karters) and find a rhythm to avoid sliding out. The facility feels old-school—no flashy neon lights or loud EDM music. Just the smell of race fuel, the sound of 4-stroke Honda engines screaming, and a staff that treats you like a competitor, not a tourist.

4.5/5

On , during a Speedway Star Knockout Cup match against the Reading Racers at Poole Stadium, Holden was involved in a fatal crash during the fifth heat. kevin holden speedway

Kevin Holden is remembered as a humble and popular figure who always had time for fans. His death, coming just three days after the loss of another rider, Josef Angermüller, remains a somber moment in speedway history. Birthplace Southampton, England National Caps 5 (England), 7 (Great Britain) Career Average (1971) 8.95 (Romford) Notable Team Exeter Falcons (League Champions 1974)

A hidden gem for serious wheel-to-wheel racing (not just an arcade attraction)

In early 1977, Holden transferred to the , a club with deep family ties—his uncle, Bill Holden , had been a legendary rider for the Pirates in the 1950s. Kevin started the season in dominant form, scoring a full 12-point maximum against Wimbledon in March and maintaining a 9-point average in his opening matches. Tragic Accident at Poole Stadium While attempting to overtake Reading’s Bob Humphreys for

: During the winter of 1974–75, he toured Australia with the "British Lion" party. Final Season with the Poole Pirates

: Following the closure of the Romford track, Holden briefly moved to the West Ham Hammers in 1972, where he famously won the last-ever race at the Custom House stadium before the club’s closure. The Exeter Falcons and International Success

The fleet consists of powerful 4-stroke Honda-powered karts. They are significantly faster than the indoor "family" karts. You will feel the G-forces in the sweeping turns. The karts are well-maintained, though being outdoor rentals, some have minor quirks from previous drivers. The staff balances the field based on weight, which is a massive plus for fairness. Nestled in an industrial area of Placentia, this

Kevin Holden began his racing career in 1970 with the in the British League Division Two. He made an immediate impact, winning the Best Pairs Gold Trophy with partner Barry Crowson in his debut season.

: In just one season, Holden progressed from a reserve rider to the team’s number one, finishing 1971 with a stellar average of 8.95.

: In 1974, Holden reached the pinnacle of domestic success as a member of the Exeter Falcons team that won the British League Championship .