Golden voice of speedway dies

William “Bill” Mudgway, the “golden voice” of Westerns Springs Speedway as its announcer from 1951-88, has died aged 93. Ken Mullens, a former speedway driver, describes Mudgway as a “very humble and gentle sort of person.” He adds: “Whenever you saw him, he would always take time for you. He was a true gentleman.” Mullens says Mudgway had the ability to keep the crowd entertained throughout the night, even when racing wasn’t occurring. Western Springs has paid tribute by calling him the “voice of speedway”. “Good night Bill, God bless, have a safe trip home. Thanks for the memories.” Mudgway first began announcing for Sarawia Speedway Racing in 1946 at Newmarket’s Olympic Stadium. In the 1980s, he was known as the “eye in the sky” for flying over Auckland during rush hour and broadcasting traffic reports for Radio I. He was the first non-competitor to be inducted into the Western Springs Speedway Hall of Fame. While he hadn’t announced at Speedway in recent years, he was seen attending events until last year. Mudgway is survived by his wife of 54 years, Catherine, and three children. A service was held at All Saints Anglican Church, Howick, on November 2, attended by family, friends and fans.