Flat-trackers, speedway racers, motocrossers, sprint car racers, and others from the motorcycle industry gathered together to celebrate the 75th birthday of legendary flat-track racer Sammy “The Flying Flea” Tanner. Some of the top-name competitors in attendance included Sonny Nutter, Wally Pankratz, Rick Goudy; Richard Cordsen, Skip Van Leeuwen and Jim Wilson, as well as many others.
Southern California Motorcycles hosted the event and turned a showroom of Triumphs into a festive party area. The band P-51 lit the place up with classic rock sounds. Justin Grennan cooked one’s choice of brisket or pork, and yes, there was an open bar, too.
The evening, which was put together by Sammy’s son Jack Tanner and Sammy’s daughter Lauri Tanner, was topped off by great storytelling, as some people got on the microphone to share their racing stories about Sammy, and there were also some heartfelt expressions.
There was a cake cutting, and Sammy blew out a candle after making a wish. Everyone sang “Happy Birthday” and the event crossed the finish line at 9:30 p.m. It was a very memorable evening.