It was 1986. Friends who had heard the last call in motocross were looking for new sources of excitement. A spark ignited to move into speedway, and thus Sandblowers was born with a bold idea: to bring vibrant colour to a “grey” sport. Literally, their Jawas were painted in bright hues, challenging tradition.
Sandblowers from left: Sakke Ojala, Jerry Wathen, Mika Pellinen, Arto Vilkman and Kai Kujala. Front: Jyrki Hinkkuri
Their debut in Seinäjoki caused a stir. Firstly, an English team name was unheard of, let alone when their kaleidoscopic bikes appeared from a van in the paddock. The organisers were dismayed: “You can’t ride with those colours! It’s against the rules!” After a short argument, Sandblowers got their way. They then dominated the competition, winning over the sceptical audience and beginning their legendary journey.
From Outsiders to League Leaders
Sandblowers quickly became a much-talked-about team, known for their unique style and undeniable talent. In just two years, they rapidly rose to the top league of Finnish speedway.
A speedway bike handles like a motocross bike during practice at the Lahti Pipo track
Sandblowers’ influence extended beyond the track. Their energy also ignited a spark in Jorma Virta, a respected motor enthusiast from Hyvinkää, known by the nickname Mr. Speedway. Jori became the team’s mentor, and under his guidance, Hyvinkää also achieved an important milestone: the city got its first dedicated speedway stadium in its history.
Sandblowers and support crew in a team meeting under the guidance of Jorma Virta
The Faded Echo of a Revolution
As is often the case in life, time moves on. Through various phases, the members of Sandblowers hung up their steel shoes. Although the Sandblowers name continued, changed members, altered team spirit, and dynamics brought varying success. The special charm that had once so clearly defined the original Sandblowers, as a team and as individuals, gradually faded. The revolutionary, brightly coloured team that had shaken up Finnish speedway slowly faded into just another team among others.
Text: Photo & Moto