In 1912, motordrome racing had it’s darkest day at Vailsburg Park in Newark, New Jersey (US).
Five riders lined up for the thirteenth and final event of the day, a five mile (20 lap) race, in front of a 5,000 strong crowd. On the third lap Eddie “The Texas Cyclone” Hasha, was leading fellow Indian rider, Ray Seymore, when Hasha’s bike developed a problem. Seymore took the lead. Eddie adjusted his carburettor and re-entered the race at the top of the track.
Eddie Hasha (1912)
Eddie’s bike veered suddenly at 90mph, crossing the black warning line at the top of the racing surface and travelling around a hundred feet along the three foot high spectator railing at the top of the track. It struck numerous spectators who were hanging over the barrier to watch the race, before hitting a large roof post and being hurled into the spectator seating area along with the rider.
The frame of Hasha’s heavy Indian 8-valve machine then slid down the bank into the path of fellow rider Johnny Albright, who was traveling at full speed. He hit the bike and was thrown from his own motorcycle, landing thirty feet ahead along the track. He rolled unconscious to the bottom of the embankment and was taken to Newark’s German Hospital, where he was pronounced dead three hours after the crash.
Johnny Albright (left)
The crash and resulting carnage caused a stampede out of the grandstands injuring numerous spectators. The final death toll from the horrific crash was eight, which included Hasha, and Albright, along with six spectators. Three of the dead, were young boys twelve to fourteen years old.
Newspapers across the country began tracking their local motordrome death tolls for the next year. Editorial writers and cartoons called for banning “Murderdromes” and motorcycle racing.
The venue tried running other events but the track closed in September 1912. Newark Common Council passed an ordinance in December 1912 banning motorcycle races at board tracks within the city limits. This ban ultimately led to the permanent closure of the venue.
Vailsburg Park today