There are figures in Western Australian speedway whose names live far beyond the chequered flag, and then there is ‘The General’.
John Day was more than a push-truck driver, more than a flag waver, more than a presence in the infield. He was an icon whose passion, pride and unmistakable style helped define an entire era of the sport.
John’s journey into speedway folklore began humbly at the old Claremont Speedway, where, after initially having a go behind the wheel, he realised he wasn’t a racer, but wanted to advertise his newly opened John Day Smash Repairs business. He approached WASDA and began by push starting the Speedcars in his single ute.
What started as a small contribution quickly became a calling. His fleet of bright orange utes quickly grew, word spread about his famous flag waving and of course his flamboyant outfits became as recognisable as the drivers themselves.
Over decades of service, John led a merry band of fellow ute drivers renowned across the country for its professionalism and lightning-fast response. The John Day Crew wasn’t just a group of officials, it was a trademark of excellence, respected by competitors from every class and every state. When disaster struck, they were on the scene. When the fans needed a show, they were part of it. And when the sport needed someone to lift standards, John was the one setting the benchmark.
But it was John’s spirit that endeared him to thousands. He was a showman without taking over: the waving flags, the warm interactions with fans, the pride he showed in firstly his fleet at Claremont and then the Perth Motorplex, and the simple joy he took in being part of the sport he loved. Generations of spectators grew up knowing that the night hadn’t really started until The General rolled out for the grand parade.
His legacy today is measured not just in the memories but in the events that honour him. The John Day Classic stands as a tribute to the man who gave so much of his life to speedway, a celebration of both the racing he adored and the community he helped build. To win the event is to carry a little piece of his history.
Though John passed in 2016, his influence remains everywhere: in his doting family who proudly continue his legacy, in the pride of the ute drivers who still carry his name, and in the countless people who relied on the team, The General was never far away.
John Day wasn’t a racer, but he was undeniably a champion of the sport: a leader, a character, and a man whose contribution will remain woven into WA speedway for as long as wheels turn at the Perth Motorplex.
The General may not ride out onto the infield anymore, but his presence is still felt every race night. And it always will be.
Tonight, at the Jolly Good In Car Audio & Entertainment John Day Classic, we turn the ‘Plex orange to salute “The General” – John Day.
