About Jack Milne

Jack Milne – Buffalo’s Trailblazer in Speedway Racing

Buffalo, NY, is a city renowned for producing pioneering athletes across various sports, and Jack Milne is no exception. Born on June 4, 1907, in Buffalo, Milne made his name as a speedway racing legend and became the first American to win a motorcycling world championship, leaving an indelible mark on both the sport and his hometown’s history. From his humble beginnings to his triumphs overseas and his lasting legacy, Milne’s story is one of ambition, determination, and groundbreaking achievement.

From Buffalo to the Speedway

Though Jack Milne was born in Buffalo, his family relocated to Pasadena, California, when he was young. The shift in geography didn’t diminish Buffalo’s influence on his character—it gave Milne the grit and determination often associated with Western New York. His interest in speedway racing began in the 1930s when he and his brother, Cordy Milne, decided to turn their shared passion for racing into a profession.

Jack sold his service station to buy a pair of Comerford-JAP speedway motorcycles, the best equipment suited for the growing sport of dirt-track motorcycle racing. This bold investment demonstrated Milne’s belief in his abilities, and his confidence paid off as he began earning a name for himself in the competitive world of speedway.

A Champion on the World Stage

Jack Milne and Cordy ventured across the Atlantic to England, a country where speedway racing was already an established and well-loved sport. Jack signed with the New Cross Tamers, a prominent speedway team, while Cordy joined the Hackney Wick Wolves. The brothers quickly became sensations, appearing on trading cards and in advertisements while dominating the racetrack in a way that endeared them to fans and sponsors alike.

Milne’s shining moment came in 1937, when he competed in the Speedway World Championship at London’s iconic Wembley Stadium. The event brought together the finest speedway riders from around the world, and Milne made history by becoming the first American to win the championship, beating an international field that included his brother Cordy, who placed third. This victory catapulted Jack Milne to international fame and cemented his place as a trailblazer for American speedway riders.

The following year, Milne narrowly missed defending his title, finishing second in the 1938 Speedway World Championship. Despite this, his consistent podium finishes in these elite competitions solidified his reputation as one of the sport’s early legends.

Contributions to Speedway Racing

When the onset of World War II brought a temporary halt to international speedway racing, Milne returned to Pasadena. There, he used his earnings from racing to open a bicycle shop with his brother. This small venture expanded into a motorcycle dealership and eventually evolved into a major car dealership.

Once the war ended, Milne didn’t stay on the sidelines. Instead, he took on the role of a mentor, helping rebuild and revive American speedway racing in Southern California. His efforts contributed to establishing venues like the Costa Mesa Speedway, which has remained a hub for the sport since it opened in 1969. Milne’s dedication ensured that speedway racing would have a lasting presence in the U.S., and he remained involved in the sport well into his later years.

Milne’s impact extended internationally, too. After his record-breaking 1937 championship win, it took 43 years for another American rider—Bruce Penhall in 1981—to reach the same heights. Milne was present at Wembley Stadium in 1981 to witness Penhall’s victory, a moment that symbolized continuity and the lasting influence of his achievements on future generations.

A Legacy of Grit and Greatness

Jack Milne’s contributions to speedway racing were officially recognized in 1998 when he was inducted into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame. That same year, the Jack Milne Cup was inaugurated to celebrate his remarkable career. This annual event at the Costa Mesa Speedway honors Milne’s legacy and keeps his name alive in the speedway racing community.

For Buffalo, Jack Milne remains a beacon of inspiration, proving that with ambition and hard work, success knows no boundaries. Though his sporting triumphs occurred long after his family left Buffalo, his origins in the Queen City are a proud part of his story. Milne’s achievements reflect the unrelenting spirit of Buffalo’s athletes, whose resilience and determination shine bright on the global stage.

Lasting Influence

As both a competitor and a mentor, Jack Milne shaped the sport of speedway racing in profound ways. His record-breaking win served not only as a source of pride for American riders but also as a reminder that the sport could thrive beyond its European strongholds. His dedication to reviving and sustaining speedway in the U.S. cemented his legacy as a pioneer and ambassador for the sport.

Jack Milne’s story is that of a visionary who dared to dream big. His accomplishments on and off the racetrack continue to inspire speedway riders and motorsport enthusiasts worldwide, ensuring that his name remains synonymous with excellence and innovation in the world of motorcycle racing. Much like Buffalo, the city of his birth, Milne’s legacy is defined by tenacity, courage, and an unshakable drive to succeed.