Some great names in Florida racing history in that little write-up in the program. Truth be known, I was probably there since I was growing up in Palmetto at the time. The area around Tampa Bay was a real hotbed of racing. Philips Field, Plant Field at the old State Fairgrounds, Sunshine/Showtime Speedway, Golden Gate Speedway, Sara-Mana Speedbowl, Desoto Speedway, East Bay Speedway, all within a 40 mile radius. For a time, there was even a track at the new State Fairgrounds east of Tampa. Great names like, Reutimann, Cagle, Hirst, Bontrager, Billy Gill, Gene Tharp, the 123 of Gordon Lee, Bobby Brack, Frank and Jimmy Riddle, Gary Balough, even the Allison brothers! And of course, Maynard Troyer! One of the best race announcers ever, the late Gordon Solie was the voice of Golden Gate for many years along with doing the wrestling in Tampa as well. It was a fun time and place to grow up!!!!!
