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California Speedway

Bruce Flanders

June 4, 1945 - August 14, 2020

Bruce Flanders

Bruce Flanders

Bruce Flanders

Bruce Flanders
The "King," Bruce Flanders, and his subjects having a good time on a Wednesday night at IMS in the 1980's.
Scott Daloisio Photo

Bruce Flanders

Bruce Flanders

Orange County Register Obituary

The Racer.com - Article about Bruce

A few comments from Facebook
Cori Stricklin - Deep loving hugs 😔🙏
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Joe Miller - The goat ... more red snapper with beer my friend ❤❤❤
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Dean Case - Another reason to hate 2020. Bruce was THE voice of SoCal motorsports. Happy to have known him. Honored to have been interviewed by him a couple of times at Industry Speedway when we brought SAE engineering students.
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Lisa Jane - Very sad news indeed, he is a special man ❤️
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Patrick Loucks - Prayers from Nor Cal !!!!!!!!
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Jimmy Minks - "Wow” the guy is one of the best,
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Carl Wuersch - So sorry to hear that he’s a legend and will never be forgotten. 🙏🙏 to your family.
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Christine - Pickett Absolutely crushing news. I wish them both peace ❤
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Gene Woods - He holds a special place in all of our hearts! 🙏🏻 To you and the family.
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Jeff Godfrey - This is sad news to read. Bruce filled me full of laughter when I made the two trips to America to race sidecars
I am sorry he is in pain. On a bright note at a tuff time I wonder if he ever used that good Aussie road race I gave him to fix some potholes in front of his house.
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Martin Elliott - Prayers n thoughts 🙏🏻
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Scott Rousseau - If the finish line truly is near, then God bless Bruce Flanders for a life well lived and a lifetime of filling others with happiness and memories. He is one of two or three all time great motorcycle racing announcers.
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Pat Stovall - So very sad, prayers for all of them.
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Skip Barnett - He is a awesome man never forget that voice followed speedway since the 70s in S.B
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Jean Fink - So sorry to hear. Always enjoyed Bruce. Such a knowledgeable, enjoyable, one of a kind announcer. Wishing him peace. With love.
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Tom Kirchner - I loved standing near where Bruce called each heat on Friday nights in San Bernardino. I'll remember you sir. Ugly Hawaiian shirt night. Your little shot glass. As much as i hate to see you go, sir go find your wife and be together for eternity. I hope someone reads these comments coming to you and you give a big smile.
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Ted Sanchez - Bruce you are an inspiration to all of us, your whit astonishing. My prayers🙏🙏
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David Bradley - Bruce, you are and ALWAYS will be in our hearts ... Forever ... thank you for your mark that you are leaving for all of us, God bless you SIR ... you will be truly missed my friend.💯🙏😢
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Rick Chew - Bruce was one of my boss in 1970 working for the Flanders family. He was known as ‘Golden Voice.’ Bruce rode speedway and tried his hands at Land Speed Racing. I remember as a youngster, he said when riding over 130 mph, to turn left, you leaned right. I appreciate all that the Flanders family has awarded me. From employment to friendships for life. I will miss your ‘Golden Voice’ but one day we will all meet our loved ones again. Until then, Bruce. Godspeed.
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Timothy Bartee - ... it's a sad day ...
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Michael S. Helm - I am so sorry to hear this news. My prayers for peaceful transition! Whisper in his ear that his good buddy Digger is just around the corner to meet him! There will be celebrations in heaven when Bruce passes through those "Pearly Gates!". He has had such a wonderful life. I met Bruce some 45years ago when I was just a teenager. He announced speedway for a short time in Bakersfield. I will never forget the match race between he and my father, Digger. Both of them took dirt samples ... my father turns 1/2 ... Bruce on the other end 3/4. Bruce inspired my father to announce ... subsequently inspired me to announce! Best voice EVER! God be with you Bruce! 💜💜💜🙏🙏🙏🏁🏁🏁
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Pat Green - Back in the days of Speedway at Irwindale Raceway, spent lots of time with Brucie. We all had so much fun. Thanks for all the friendship & fun. Love you, Pat Green
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Penny Bridges - Kevin and I send our hugs and prayers to the amazing man who in the 70s/80’s was also the Voice of Hangtown ... 🙏❤️🙏
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Tom Fox - Love you Bruce, thank you for all the memories.
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Tim Walker - So sad.
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Margaret Minor · So so sorry. I will always remember him.
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Dewayne Stark - Big fan
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Holly Ray - Bruce God Bless you and I hope you know how many peoples lives you have touched in a Memorable way, from the Racetracks you are a Legend 🏁🎤🏍 with the Golden Voice ... We had a box at Costa Mesa for several years with a infield advertising sign for our business The Racers Pub “ in Riverside. You would always make a wonderful announcement about our Pub being a True Racers Pub and because of you we got so much business especially the week after your awesome announcements
Fred Chandler & I Holly Ray” were sponsoring Joe Jones & Brandi Mc Elroy on the sidecars & Fast Eddie Castro and others over the years. You always gave so much more than just announcing the races you put your heart & sole into everything you did and Bruce you are one of the nicest people I have ever met It tears me up knowing you are so ill. The only thing I can add is take your Crash helmet with you when it’s your time to go cause you know that track in Heaven is the Best there is and All the Racers who have passed before us will be there to welcome you with open arms 🏁 🏆 🏁 After you see your beautiful wife. God Bless You & God Speed we love you dearly.
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Warren Reid - Thank you Bruce. The world of motorcycle racing and the thousands of Motorcycle Racers whose names you BOOMED OVER THE LOUDSPEAKERS owe you a giant debt of gratitude.
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Mike Collins - Prayers for his family.
Bruce has been a legend in motor sports.
His voice and name are known around the world.
A great man and a great announcer.
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Doug Nicol - I’ve been friends with Bruce since 1973 . 100 % genuine dude . Love ya man...
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Rick Martinez - It is with a heavy heart I hear this news. He was such a fighter within these past years to defy the professionals. An icon within our lives at so many events, and to just be able to watch him so effortlessly speak of the many different racers, fans, motor and non motorsports events. To Paul and Megan and the rest of his family and close friends know how much he and Vickie meant to those that had the pleasure to sit with them, listen to Bruce and enjoy their company. It was a pleasure to work with Bruce over the many years, and to enjoy the many events he announced over those years after he hung up his own helmet. The sports world will miss you Bruce. So many that never met you, but heard your voice will not look at some events the same without you behind that iconic hat, shirt and mic. God's speed Bruce and may the hugs from near and far be felt by you, and those that will stand beside you in your last hours my friend. Thank you for just being you Bruce!…
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Don Emde - Thanks Howie for the well written piece about our long time friend Bruce Flanders. A little preparation for the moment he will leave us is appreciated. Despite medical issues that would have ended most people career's Bruce carried on and for so many years brought so much joy to racing fans who got to hear his voice at motorcycle and auto racing events and radio and TV commercials. When you heard that voice, you knew it was Bruce. Rest easy old friend.
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Jake Myers - The Vin Scully and Chick Hearn of Speedway. Simply the Best Ever. Hands down best announcer ever.
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Patrick Brookshire - Very sorry to hear my friend 🙏
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Ron Walker - So sorry ... 😢🙏 save all of us your speedway brothers and sisters a spot at the track up there ... 😢🙏🏁
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Aileen McGrath - The heart of the speedway family. You will truly be missed. 😢💕
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Susie Hedrick - So very sad ... my best to the family!
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Duane Carmont - Prayers to Bruce and family
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Ron Stewart - our memory of Bruce history in motorcycles and Racing is many years of involvement of the sport and will always be remembered and a real loss to the two wheeled world.
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Scott Read - Very Sorry to hear this news... One of a kind Announcer AND Person ... Always had kind interaction with others as well... Take care Bruce... Time for some well earned rest... You got this... Thanks for sharing this Megan... Paul and Family... Comfort to you...
And ... Howie for putting this together.
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Jason Bonsignore - So very sorry! Bruce, thank you for all you have done for our sport! My thoughts are with the Flanders family!!!
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J.R. Ybarra - Much Love. Grace and Prayers for Bruce
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Larry Langley - Damn!
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Jayne Albrecht Oden - Sending out prayers for Bruce and his family! Please give him my love and a great big hug for me!
He will always be the best and most exciting voice ever in the racing world!
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Scott Cox - RIP Legend 🎙
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Stuart Glass - I cannot say enough about Bruce he is a great gentleman always had something nice to say to me. His voice was always recognized when I would come out on the track to race. My thoughts are with him and will ever be.
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Rick Whiteacre - I was heavenly involved with Speedway in the 70s, sponserd a couple of Racers including Norman Denny and Pat Lynn, I also Built Jr. Speedway bikes and my rider Brian Thompson won pretty much every Race we ran, we traveled to SoCal many times to Race all the tracks down there and was amazed when I first heard Bruce at Costa Mesa and remember saying that I wish we had a guy like that to announce our Races up north, my heart goes out to him and his family, he is one of a kind.
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Charlotte Foxworth-Ermolenko - Happy trails Bruce
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Bill Walton - Praying for him and the family God bless you all
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Stephen Simrak - The greatest announcer there ever was. A hell of a good guy too.
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Frank Parker - Ya know Kelly will be there waiting
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Rob Buydos - Bruce, Thank you for the sage advice and mentoring early in my announcing career. I will always remember you telling me quit saying” Let Me Tell You “and just tell them what it is your saying.
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Michelle Armstrong-Becker - 🙏🙏so sorry to hear this. God Bless him and all his family.
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Trace Willis - One of my favorite memories is winning the 3-D main my rookie season, on Track Championship Night at Orange Show Fairgrounds with The Voice of Speedway, Bruce Flanders, calling the shots. Always a World Class Professional! My lovely wife Judy & I have you in our prayers. (and thank you for never calling me Tracey!) Trace Willis #132🏁
- Gary Gomez - Sorry for your loss Paul. Thoughts are with you and the family. They need great announcers in heavenly for all the riders up there.
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Paul Flanders - We've got Kelly Moran on the pole. Steve Bast in 2. Rick Woods in gate 3. And Danny Becker up next to the plywood in 4.
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Billy Hamill - Godspeed Bruce Flanders. An American icon in motorsports announcing. Bruce made such a positive impact on not only American Speedway, but such events as the Long Beach Grand Prix, Irwindale Speedway, and many more! He had a very unique style, giving the audience an inside perspective into the racing. He also had a way of entertaining the crowd with his witty sense of humor like the " Submarine races in Mentone Beach" 🤣🤣. My deepest sympathies to his daughter Megan Flanders, Paul Flanders, family and all his friends. His influence and legacy will live on!!

  Roger Elliott - A legend and a friend from my days driving sprint cars at Ascot as the announcer ... Prayers and thoughts always my friend 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
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Ron Black - Sad news, Bruce made The Long Beach Grand Prix so much more fun with his one liners for many, many years along with all the speedway he announced. He will be missed.
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Rocky Robinson - I'll always remember that smooth, deep voice getting the fans riled up at Speedway. He was a big part of the whole experience. There will be some great storytelling at the Pearly Gates when the voice of speedway makes a grand entrance. Godspeed.
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Jeff Medberry - Always a fan of Bruce Flanders and this Racer lov ya Bruce !#44
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Russell Green - Guy is a legend prayers for the whole Flanders family
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Steve Luxton - Oh no! Such a huge part of American Speedway! My thoughts are with the Flanders family and all of Bruce’s friends at this very sad time.
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Chris Johnson - Prayers for a painless transition to join Vicky and for all the hearts that knew the best of the best.
I'm proud to say, Bruce is my announcing mentor and proud to have the honor of sharing the live PA with the very best of the best.… -
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Peter Davenport - Sorry to hear this, thoughts and prayers sent to the Flanders family.
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Lee Cooper - Sending prayers 🙏
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Phil Collins - Thank you Howie. Thinking of Bruce and Family at this time of difficulty.
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Alejandra Medellin · Sad to see him going thru this. I have the best memories with him sharing some shots of his favorite drink while He announces and I scored kept. Sending prayers, Love and peace for all the family. ❤️
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Larry Harrington - A Prince of a man, always !
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Dustin Schroeder - Sending all of our love from northern California. Love you Bruce.🙏 you made our sport magical. "Look at the moves on this guy LOVES THE OUTSIDE LINE." If your name ever came out of Flanders microphone, then you know and have experienced one of our worlds biggest and bestest legends. 🏁❤🙏😇
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Vicki Eichler · Always been a fan Bruce he was the best speedway announcer at San Bernardino fairgrounds. You will be missed. Vicki
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Gail Waller - Thoughts and Prayers to Bruce and all The Flanders Family!
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Bryce Eikelberger - Lifting up Bruce and the entire Flanders family in Prayer, love and hugs to them all!!✝️🙏🏻❤️
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Larry Kosta Jr · Sorry to hear this news ...
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Ken Ray - Luv ya Bruce, ... God Bless Megan and the entire Flanders family .
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Steve Bauer - I love you, Bruce, you are the best there ever was at your craft. You knew how to make all of us racers feel special and our trip to Hangtown together will forever be etched among my mind's good time memories.
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Mark Moore - I got to work with Bruce once at Glen Helen. He was a classic then and will forever be one. A cigarette in one hand and a beer in the other. Thank you Bruce
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Roger Hyden - We were proud and honored to have Bruce be the voice and personalty of Pirate Speedway.
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Mike Flanders - My Dad is awesome. He has been an inspiration to me and many worldwide.
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Geoffrey Herkner - Sensing prayers. Sad news
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Rick Huspek - Prayers
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Dennis Gildehaus - Prayers coming you're way, wishing you and the Flanders family the best. Mouse
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Peggy Parker Blue - I have so missed his voice at Irwindale Speedway. He is the best announcer I have ever known. He has been the voice of Speedway forever. His sense of humor was the best. May his journey to the other side be peaceful. May God bless his family. Sending love and prayers. ❤ 🙏
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Tom Hamilton - When Costa Mesa promoter Harry Oxley made the decision to replace entertainer extraordinaire and fixture Larry Huffman with Bruce as the track announcer, I thought he had made a rare bad decision. But in short time, Bruce captured the Fairground audience with his sharp wit, one-liners and keen knowledge of racing. No disrespect to Bruce, but I will always consider Larry Huffman as the best and his shoes were tough to fill. Bruce was more than up to the task and carved his own niche in the racing world. My prayers are with him and his family at this time.
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Lance King - Thank you Howie. Grew up racing with Bruce and Larry announcing. Both Legends and hurts to hear Bruce is in this state. We all love you Bruce
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Bob Messer - Bruce Flanders was our OG Announcer at the Annual Hangtown Motocross Classic from the late 70s through 2015. I've known Bruce for 50 years. Always an upbeat guy who always gave recognition to the racers at Ascot, Lions, Irwindale, Hangtown and many more and that was just in Moto. Very unique recognizable voice of racing for decade. I know he and his voice will be sorely missed by race fans everywhere. Special love and prayers sent to you Bruce in these end times from the DDNMC and Me. Peace and Serenity my MotoBrother. Love to the entire Flanders family.
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Kathy Moore - Our prayers are with you and your family 🙏🙏🙏
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Juli Morton - God Bless you Bruce!! Sending hugs to you and your family.
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George Scott - Bruce is great guy.
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Tim Gewecke - Sorry to hear this, definitely one of the most iconic voices in Motorsports! It’s a pleasure to have gotten to know you all those years ago. We love you Bruce!
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Lanny Jay· Thanks for great commentary every Friday night. You were great Sir.
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Joe Colombero - Bruce is the voice I always hear when I think of Speedway.
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Mike Crawford - Prayers for you,Bruce. Thank you for your friendship. Sandy Reed tried to make him more “mainstream” at the Riverside races but you couldn’t take the”Bruce” out of him.
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Hal Sanguinetti - Bruce gave me my start as a Motorsports announcer, at Irwindale Motocross. We worked many big races together, including the Hangtown MX, Saddleback MX, off road races and more. I learned SO much from him. He also helped me learn so much when I worked …
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Gary Ledoux - Prayers from Florida ... Gary Ledoux aka Mayor Clum.
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Brooks Rayborne - The entire Rayborne family and race team are sad to hear this ... His voice at the tracks will never be duplicated ... We send our prayers and love...
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Charles Dukie Ermolenko - Run hard!!!
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Peter Rovazzini - He’s one amazing announcer speedway and the Long Beach Grand Prix. Bruce old friend my prayers are with you and your family. May the Lord bless you and keep you🙏
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Mike Johns - Thank you, Howie. I'll email him. Bruce Flanders has been an important influence and inspiration, my entire life.
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Shelley Dean Sloane - I can hear his voice right now it will never go away. God be with you and your family Bruce WE WILL MISS YOU ❤🙏
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Kate Perkins - So sad to hear this. I only met him once with his lovely wife. Sending love and hugs to him and his family and friends.
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Hayley Gudgel - Prayers and wishes being sent from my family to the Flanders family. Bruce is a staple for So Cal speedway and we’ve missed him so dearly recently.
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Jaleen Oxley - Losing Hero’s sucks. No one has done more than Bruce Flanders for the sport of Speedway. With all due respect and without offending anyone, I say “To Hell With 2020.” Bruce is still with us but, is sorely missed already. Prayers to all his family and friends. Never forgotten 💔🙏🏻 Brad and Jaleen Oxley ~ Costa Mesa Speedway
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Linda Giles - My Heart is Broken ... He will enter the world of Paradise and NEVER forgotten I will Pray for you and for your wonderful Family ... God please be with this wonderful man on his journey HOME
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Larry Coleman - I was so fortunate to co-announce with Bruce at Laguna Seca and even did Hang Town one year with him. I announced with Bruce and Bill Spencer and we had a blast. Probably the most fun was when Bruce announced and did our winners interview at Long Beach in 81 when we won the sidecar race. I am sure when Bruce gets to the pearly gates Bill Spencer will meet him with a Bud and show him around. Thanks for the memories buddy.
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Kymber Harrell Estes - Red, Red, Red, Red, Red. One of the greatest of all times is going to be the star of the show at one of the biggest parties heaven has ever seen. Prayers to the entire Flanders family. We are all praying for a smooth crossover. I’m so blessed to have been a part of Bruce’s life as scorekeeper at many different venues. We first met when the Grunion were running in Mentone Beach many many moons ago. 🐟
Bruce always inspired and motivated me to live my best life no matter what size I was. Bruce celebrated with me when we did a before and after picture. And man what was in that bottle? 😉 🍻
Bruce will always hold a special place in my heart. So many special memories. Until we meet again dear friend, you will be missed. They need the greatest announcer in heaven now.
🇺🇸🏁 🎤
Love always,
Kymber and Team Estes
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Marcia Patterson It was a lot fun being around him. Great voice and we loved his wit.
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Tony Gallegos - Oh no!
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Pam Santin An amazing man. Our Hangtown announcer for many years. Always made you laugh so hard. Some really, really funny stories with him. Im so sorry this is happening!!!
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Joseph N Robin Godoy - 100% always a class act and honestly all announcers owe Bruce a debt of gratitude because he showed them how it should be done. Godspeed
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Scott Spivey - No words but pure love brother and comfort from me !!
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Paul Flanders - How proud I am to have my two older brothers, John and Bruce! I learned so much from them while growing up. It was like having two extra fathers. I mean, who else in the second grade knew that a 5/8" wrench is larger than a 9/16"? I got to drive Bruce's cars at an early age. He had a hot rod '58 Ford, then a 64-1/2 Mustang that was one of the first with the Hi-Po 270 HP 289 CI engines. I learned how to adjust the valves and ignition timing on engines while they were running. Those were great days growing up with them.
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Ken McKinney - My deepest sympathy and most ardent respect to your family.
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Dee Ann Bast - Bruce was a great announcer. Mike and I were just talking about some old videos we have and the expressions Bruce used to describe him. Bruce was also the reason Mike was on the L. A Sprockets. A story in itself, but he had Mikes back at the time!! RIP Bruce! You had a voice like no other!!
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Steve Martin - We lost a true Motorsports legend yesteday Bruce Flanders. I feel honored to have heard him many times announce at Laguna Seca and to have heard my name over the PA and then some 30 years later to hear my sons names. Bruce and his iconic voice was such a huge part of Speedway here in the US. You will be missed my friend godspeed Bruce Flanders.
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Scott Lee Daloisio - Last night between 7:00 and 8:00, I received a phone call from longtime good friend Terry Clanton. I knew sooner or later what was coming but did not want to hear it. Terry was calling to tell me that our mentor, hero, friend of over 40-years and the best motorsports announcer of all-time (that includes going into the future), Bruce Flanders, had just passed away. Over the past couple of months, we knew it was inevitable, but it still was tough to take.

Terry and I were talking earlier in the week about how great Bruce was behind the mic. Most people who heard him over the years agree he was the best. But Terry and I both agreed, Bruce's best work ever was at the original IMS in the late '70s through the '80s. That place and Bruce were made for each other. It rocked on Wednesday nights with Bruce behind the mic.
His quick wit and knowledge of all motorsports made it impossible to not listen to him. You did not want to miss anything; he was that good.

Perhaps someday I will sit down and gather all my Bruce Flanders stories and write them down to share. There are hundreds, but here is a couple that happened at the Tustin Thunder event at the El Toro Marine Station in, I think, 1997. The Tustin Thunder was a deal that had a lot of great vintage race cars that, basically, drove around and did not really race hard. Bruce got the job as the announcer and he got me the job as his backup for the weekend. I was announcing a class of sports cars when one flipped in front of the grandstand. It was a vintage car and if you remember vintage road racing cars, they usually had a big white circle with a bold, black number in the middle. When the car flipped, I said, “The #73 flips right in front of the grandstand.” One of the scorers jumped up and screamed at me, “You cannot say who it is, he may have fans watching.” This prompted Bruce to stand up, look out the press box window at the crowd, and say so everyone, including the scorers, in the press box could hear, “I don’t see anybody in the stands with a white cane or a seeing-eye dog. I think they all can read that number.”

The same weekend, we went to where they had a catered lunch area for V.I.P.’s and race employees. We got our food, Bruce looked around for a place to sit and spotted a big wig from the Marines sitting with three-time Tour de France winner Greg LeMond and 1976 Olympic decathlon gold medalist Bruce Jenner. Bruce said, “let’s go sit with them.” We did and he started talking with them like he would any friend. They all enjoyed his company and his humor. Bruce always knew where the best stories were.

Bruce was loved by one and all. And I mean people who knew him personally and those who just knew his voice. Personally, I could never repay him for the things he did for me when I transitioned from a photographer to an announcer. He answered every one of my questions, steered me in the right direction and got me great gigs. I thank you for everything you did for myself and others, Bruce. We will all certainly miss you and will think of you all the time. Until we meet again on the other side, rest in peace, my friend.

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For Immediate Release

PERRIS AUTO SPEEDWAY MOURNS THE DEATH OF ITS FIRST ANNOUNCER, BRUCE FLANDERS

(Perris, CA, August 19, 2020) Promoter Don Kazarian and the staff at Perris Auto Speedway are saddened by the passing of the track’s first announcer, Bruce Flanders. The legendary mic man passed away last Friday at the age of 75 after a long battle with COPD.

Flanders baritone voice and quick wit had been a staple on the Southern California racing scene for nearly a half-century. A jack of all trades, when it came to motorsports announcing, the Vietnam War veteran was popular with Speedway Motorcycle, Sprint Car, Stock Car, and Indy Car fans not only in So Cal, but also around the country. His longest continuous gig was the Long Beach Grand Prix. He took over the announcing duties there in 1978 and announced every LBGP since. His work there was rewarded in 2016 when he became a member of the Motorsports Walk of Fame in Long Beach.

“Bruce Flanders was our announcer the first three years at Perris Auto Speedway,” said a subdued Kazarian. “He was a pleasure to work with and he was a complete pro. Like everywhere else before and every place he announced after, the fans loved him. He never missed a beat and his quick wit and extreme knowledge of racing made him one of a kind. Most of all, he was a great guy. He was the same on and off the microphone. Just a genuinely nice person with a tremendous sense of humor. Everyone at Perris Auto Speedway is saddened by his passing and we send thoughts and prayers to his children Megan and Michael.”

While many know Flanders as an announcer, many do not know that he was also a racer. He raced Speedway Motorcycles on the Southern California circuit. And in his late 20’s, he set a land speed record on the Bonneville Salt Flats when he went 141.703 on a production motorcycle. He also hot lapped a Sprint Car at Ascot.

“Bruce was the greatest motorsports announcer of all-time,” current Perris Auto Speedway announcer Scott Daloisio said. “A lot of people try to imitate him, but nobody has or ever will equal him. He was just too good. In addition to being a great announcer, he was also a great man. Bruce was always willing to help up and coming announcers hone their craft. When I was transitioning from a race photographer to an announcer, he was my mentor. He answered all my questions and offered advice. The same with longtime Costa Mesa Speedway announcer Terry Clanton and many others. He wanted to help all of us. A lot of the other guys would not give you the time of day, but Bruce was different. He cared.”

Bruce Flanders
Scott Daloisio Photo

Dorcey Alan Wingo - Salute to a Hall of Famer: Speedway fans woke up Saturday morning to learn they had lost their great announcer, Bruce Flanders. A former racer himself and son of a National Long Track Champion, Bruce was also a Vietnam Veteran who served in my old Army outfit, the famous Fourth Infantry Division. I was always proud to call "Brother Bruce" my friend. He was one of a kind.

Bruce Flanders

August 2007 at Industry Speedway
Bruce interviews Industry Promoter Lee Crecelius for RAZ Video before the races get started.
Dorcey Alan Wingo Photo

 

“The Voice” Bruce Flanders passes at age 75

I’m sorry. I wish I could change or make what I say less painful but it is not possible. On Friday, August 14, motorsports announcer Bruce Flanders died.

Bruce Flanders

Flanders had put up an amazing fight. Doctors gave him six months to live when he was diagnosed with Chronic obstructive pulmonary (COPD) disease almost twelve years ago. Chemotherapy, trails drugs and group procedures, Bruce did it all. Some showed short term promise but a cure or even stabilization was not to be.

Things took a tragic turn when Bruce’s wife Vickie Flanders passed unexpectedly last year. In perfect health her passing not only robbed Bruce of the love of his life but also of his caretaker. Although Bruce hid the hurt and stress it was there. Unfortunately no one could help, it was what it was.

Bruce Flanders

Bruce and Vickie Flanders

Daughter Megan Flanders moved back home and became his caretaker. His brothers Paul and John and Bruce’s best friend Ike Clanton along with Flanders relatives did their share to help with both the physical and mental part of this terrible situation.

Bruce Flanders

Megan Flanders

Bruce Flanders

The Flanders Brothers L/R: John – Paul - Bruce

The day before Bruce passed I went to see him. In and out on consciousness I sat there next to him till he woke. I told stories about our lifelong friendship. Unfortunately Bruce’s speech was very limited and difficult to understand so all he could do is listen. I did most of the talking and he responded with head shakes or garbled replies. Still very much interested in what was going on it was wonderful but after a while Bruce dozed off again. Still I was pleased cause during that short time the Flanders I love and respect relived a lifetime.

Bruce Flanders

Flanders home phone rang consistently. Even though all the calls went to an answering machine there was a device by his hospital bed that allowed him to hear the person who was leaving the message. Unfortunately he could no longer move more than a few inches so all Bruce could do is listen but he enjoyed hearing all those positive messages that friends and strangers left.

Bruce Flanders

L/R: Bruce Flanders – Harald Zechner – Terry Clanton – Bob Brayton

The calls, emails and social media posts were one of the few positive things Bruce had left. Because he would sleep 22 hours a day Megan played or read them to Bruce when he was awake. Sometimes several times. They would always bring a smile to his face.

Bruce Flanders

Bruce Flanders was born in Pasadena as were his two brothers John and Paul. TheirCanadian dad Earl married Lucile from Altadena California. Earl liked Speedway and at its pre-war height he raced four or five venues a week. In 1948 he won the AMA Jack Pine Enduro.

Bruce Flanders

Earl and Lucile Flanders loved motorcycling and racing

In August of 1945 Earl and Lucile opened Flanders Company. In the 50's they became the Western U.S. Distributor for BMW and NSU motorcycles. A Flanders Racing team soon followed with riders likes Dave Ekins and Harlen Bast. It was a great joy and education for three boys growing up around racing and the networks that support it.

Bruce Flanders

The family that motorcycles together stays together and the Flanders family did it all. Earl was an AMA competition committee member, AMA district referee and Southern California race promoter. Earl also managed the annual speed trials held on the Utah Salt Flats. Speedway, Enduro, Desert, Bonneville, it didn't matter. Bruce Flanders loved motorcycles as much as his mom and dad did. Earl and Lucile Flanders and Bruce are in the Trailblazers Hall of Fame.

Bruce Flanders

Earl and Lucile Flanders at the Trailblazers Banquet

Bruce Flanders

(L) Larry Huffman and (R) Don Emde with 2018 Trailblazers Hall of Fame inductee Bruce Flanders

In 2018 Bruce Flanders was inducted into the Trailblazers Hall of Fame!

(I nominated Bruce to the Hall of Fame in August 17, 2017 and the board voted him in that day however he did not officially receive that title till the Trailblazers Banquet on April 7, 2018)

Middle brother Bruce graduated from Saint Francis High School in La Canada California. An AA degree in Business at Pasadena City College was planed but Geology, a very visual science was a course requirement. Bruce being colorblind ended up dropping the class.

Now carrying less than 15 and 1/2 college units Flanders was drafted. On his 21st birthday Bruce was in boot camp and by his 22nd in Vietnam. He served in the Army from 1966 through 1968. He never talked about it. War is hell.

Bruce Flanders

A young Bruce Flanders

Normal life returned once Bruce became a civilian again. Motorcycles, Flanders Company, racing. Bruce was enjoying it all. Tradition dictated that every year in August, Earl and the boys went to Bonneville. Bruce became an announcer there in 1968.

Bruce Flanders
Bruce at Victorville 2005
Dorcey Wingo Photo

Family friend Jack Milne was putting a deal together to run Speedway in Orange County and needed an announcer. Jack's first choice was Earl Flanders but he declined and recommend Bruce for the job. On Friday, June 13, 1969 Bruce Flanders became the first announcer at Costa Mesa Speedway.

Bruce Flanders

An upcoming work commitment to announce at Bonneville required a short absence from Speedway. When Bruce returned Larry Huffman had replaced him as the Costa Mesa announcer.

Bruce Flanders

Motorsports announcers L/R: Larry Huffman and Bruce Flanders

No hard feelings Bruce would rather race. 1970 saw him competing at Costa Mesa on a JAP owned by Butch Fairchild. His next machine was a Velocette powered Speedway bike that Flanders Company shop foreman George Williams designed and helped build. Longtime Velocette aficionado Ernie Pico provided the motor. It was a very light combination but suffered from too much chassis flex.

Bruce Flanders

Bruce Flanders and Paul Flanders with the Speedway Bike that was custom built at Flanders Company

A Division-1 rider in Lancaster and Bakersfield and D-2 at Costa Mesa Bruce raced Speedway for four years. Unfortunately it was Flanders the announcer that got all the attention. Bruce retired from active competition in 1974 when Lions Drag Strip hired him to be their Motor Cross announcer.

Bruce Flanders

Bruce Flanders holding his original racing leathers

In 1975 Bruce Flanders was announcing Speedway Motorcycles four nights a week. Car promoters also came calling. In 1977 Ascot hired him to announce their Saturday night Sprint Car show.

Bruce Flanders

Bruce Flanders gets the crowd going at Inland Motorcycle Speedway

Known for doing his homework demand for Flanders services grew. In 1978 it was over 100 gigs. The Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach, Formula Atlantic, the Toyota Pro Celebrity race, and Oldsmobile Pro Series were just a few of Bruce's clients. Del Mar, Caesars Palace, Sears Point, Glen Helen, IMS and dozens more utilized his services.

Bruce Flanders

There were TV and cable shows. In 1983 Bruce hosted two Formula One shows for television. He also hosted award winning television productions for Mickey Thompson, Ultimate Frisbee, the short-lived "Fast Company" and many more.

Bruce Flanders

Bruce Flanders interviews Speedway World Champion Bruce Penhall for a RAZ Video Production
2004 Dorcey Wingo Photo

In 2008 Bruce came down with pneumonia. Hardly able to move he spent days in the hospital. A cigarette smoker for over forty years Bruce was diagnosed with severe Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Almost always fatal they sent him home from the hospital to die.

Quitting is not a family trait so Flanders daughter Megan, son Mike and wife Vickie slowly nursed him back. Oxygen machines (24/7) and up to three mile walks daily, Bruce regained his strength. Spending countless computer hours he searched for every COPD clinical trial on the internet. Often unaware these trials existed Bruce's doctors were amazed with his research. Often reluctant they approved his enrollment in a variety of cutting edge procedures. Some showed improvement, some were disastrous.

Bruce Flanders

Following in his father’s footsteps Bruce Flanders son Michael is a Motorsports Announcer

“This new clinical trial has been the most invasive so far and I’m a little anxious about the whole deal,” Bruce told me after one such enrollment. “I always walk a lot but still had to increase my exercise regimen by around fifty percent to qualify. I needed to bring the most fit body that I could to this procedure. I sure hope I live long enough to see stem cell therapy help to fix this problem" he relayed.

Bruce Flanders

Lifelong friends Harald Zechner and Bruce Flanders

Flanders best medicine was his announcing and even in the darkest hours he performed. Unable to walk more than 10 steps at a time and always hooked up to an oxygen tank friends and family drove him to work. His voice still crisp and clear Bruce Flanders articulated why he was one of the best in the business. The fans gave him courage, the promoters gave respect. Even the racers were in awe.

Bruce Flanders

Right up till the end Bruce Flanders kept that golden voice that he was so well known for.
2011 Dorcey Wingo Photo

"The Voice of Speedway" is a title the fans gave Bruce when he first announced the brakeless two-wheel circuit. A title richly deserved, fans, racers, sponsors and promoters loved the verbal excitement he brought to announcing. Bruce much like his dad Earl loves Speedway motorcycle racing.

Wednesday nights Flanders announced Speedway at the Grand Arena in the City of Industry. "The Voice of Speedway" is so well respected there they hold an annual event in his honor each year. One of the seasons biggest nights "The Bruce Flanders Ugly Hawaiian Shirt Contest" is so popular it has achieved cult status. Promoter Kelly Inman has already made plans to make this a Championship event in Bruce Flanders honor.

Bruce Flanders

Bruce Flanders in one of his many “Ugly” Hawaiian Shirts

Flanders was also "The Voice of the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach." Their announcer there since 1978 Bruce is admired for his proper pronunciation of all those foreign names and his knowledge of the cars and racers.

Bruce Flanders

2020 would have marked Flanders 42nd year of announcing at Long Beach had the race not been cancelled

Bruce was also the "The Voice of Irwindale Speedway". There since the track first opened in March of 1999 he announced NASCAR, USAC, Sprint Cars, Super Moto, Monster Trucks, Demolition Derby and a host of other 2 and 4 wheel disciplines that raced at the 1/2 mile Super Speedway. Bruce announced there for 18 years before the Speedway closed. “I won't be working Saturday nights anymore he told me. I thought I would go before Irwindale Speedway did."

Bruce Flanders

A Birthday surprise featured Bruce Flanders on the cover of Irwindale Speedway Program

"I have announced more different forms of racing machines in more places for more different people and sanctioning bodies' than I can remember", Bruce would always boast. True that cause announcing was his life’s passion.

Bruce Flanders

Bruce Flanders holds a picture of him standing with Speedway World Champions Jack Milne and Bruce Penhall

Once I asked Bruce if he had any regrets and his reply was as genuine and down to earth as he was; “I have ridden the bull for the full 8 seconds, I lived through Vietnam, I've got a great family. I set a land speed record for "Pops" Yoshimura on a Kawasaki KZ 1000 at Bonneville back in 1973. I rode Speedway and everything else with two wheels for years. I'm respected in the industry as a good announcer and person. Regardless of what else happens, it's been a good life."

The Family Flanders: John, Paul, Caeson, Megan, Bruce,Teri, Heather and Jeff

We will miss you Bruce Flanders. Rest in Peace my friend.

Respectfully, Harald "Howie" Zechner

-----

Well. I’m sorry. I wish I could change or make what I say less painful but it is not possible. Today, Tuesday August 11, Megan Flanders informed me that her father Bruce Flanders is on his death bed. Whether a matter of hours, days or even a week doctors can’t say but Megan did relay that they told her the time has come.

Bruce has put up an amazing fight. Doctors gave him six months to live when he was diagnosed with Chronic obstructive pulmonary (COPD) disease almost nine years ago. Chemotherapy, trails drugs and group procedures, Bruce did it all. Some showed short term promise but a cure or even stabilization was not to be.

Things took a tragic turn when Bruce’s wife Vickie Flanders passed unexpectedly last year. In perfect health her passing not only robbed Bruce of the love of his life but also of his caretaker. Although Bruce hid the hurt and stress it was there. Unfortunately no one could help, it was what it was.

Daughter Megan Flanders moved back home and became his caretaker. His brothers Paul and John and Bruce’s best friend Ike Clanton also are doing more than their share to help with both the physical and mental part of this terrible situation.

Now under constant hospice care his body weight is less than 100 pounds. On drugs and anti-depressants Megan tells me pain is not an issue and hopefully it will not be.

When I asked Megan if she wanted this made public she said yes and asked that everyone email or call Bruce to offer comfort and say how much they admire the man we affectionately call “The Voice of Speedway”. Bruce has no physical strength and sleeps about 22 hours a day so please leave a message on the answering machine or computer. Megan reads them to her dad when he is awake. Contact information is 909/880-1610 or BFFlanders@aol.com I will report more after visiting him tomorrow.

Howie Zechner (August 12, 2020)

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Bruce Flanders, the voice of everything
by Howie Zechner
April 21, 2016

Those of us in the two-wheel persuasion think the Flanders guy is a motorcycle announcer. Of course, why wouldn¹t we? After all he started at the Orange County Fairgrounds announcing Speedway Motorcycle racing in 1969. Just the beginning Bruce went on to be the track announcer at countless Speedway venues and was so revered at the now defunct Inland Motorcycle Speedway that fans openly rebelled when a new promoter spoke of bringing in another.

Forty-seven years gone and Flanders still announces Speedway at the City of Industry. He is the man that fans, racers and promoters call The voice of Speedway. Don¹t believe me, well stop by any Wednesday Night and see for yourself. https://www.facebook.com/IndustryRacing/?fref=ts

Flanders should be good you say. After all dad owned Flanders Company, a motorcycle dealership, repair facility and parts house in Pasadena California. Bruce, brothers John and Paul all worked there so motorcycles, speed, sponsorship and racing were the family¹s business. John Flanders still works the business to this day.

It was a wonderful upbringing Bruce told me. Dad Earl, the 1948 Enduro Champion and mom Lucile were big-shots with the AMA, SCTA, SRA and other motorcycle organizations. Both Earl and Lucile Flanders have been inducted into the AMA and Trailblazers Hall of Fame.

As Chief Timing Official at the Bonneville Salt Flats Earl, Lucile and the boys were accustom to spending weeks on the road. Racing the Catalina GP or handling Enduro check points out in the middle of the Mojave Desert for races like the two-day Greenhorn Enduro, wherever they competed or officiated it was a family affair and the kids enjoyed participating.

Bruce¹s exposure to such a wide variety of disciplines and locations led to an education that shaped the cornerstone of Flanders announcing career. Racing Speedway motorcycles for a few seasons also helped, as did a 1973 record setting run at the Bonneville Salt Flats for the fastest production motorcycle. Flanders 141.703 mph Yoshimura Kawasaki record stood for seven years.

Promoting was one more brick in Flanders wall of motorsport evolution. Drags, Speedway motorcycles and motocross at the old Irwindale Speedway and Sprint Cars at Corona Raceway. But like a moth to flame it always came back to announcing. It¹s what Bruce loved. He knew it would be his life's calling.

Know for his obsession with name pronunciation, race states and sponsorship Bruce Flanders is a perfectionist who always does his homework before word one is uttered. He research¹s every event and all those involved. Not being prepared or having all the facts are not in Bruce¹s MO (modus operandi) and is a betrayal of everything the man believes in. That devotion to detail has not gone unnoticed. It¹s made him an announcing superstar.

I average 53 flights out of a suitcase before it needs replacement the Flanders guys joking told me. No lie he¹s worked most every major sanctioning body and racetrack in America and even some in Europe. A short list includes names like Formula One, IndyCar, CART, NASCAR, AMA, NHRA, IMSA, SCCA, FIM, SCTA and more. Better know locations include Ascot, the Hangtown GP, the original Irwindale Raceway, Glen Helen, Laguna Seca, Sears Point, the Caesars Place Grand Prix, the Miami Grand Prix, Daytona Motor Speedway, Watkins Glen, Irwindale, Fremont, Orange County International, Lions Drag Strip, England¹s Wembley Stadium, Euro Speedway Lausten Ring in Germany and so many others. More than one of the above have called Bruce Flanders the voice of. It¹s a respect title like judge, or president or sir I¹m guessing.

The Irwindale Event Center is another place that Flanders calls home. Built in 1999 this Half Mile Super Speedway features NASCAR and another dozen or so four-wheel classes and sanctioning bodies. Fans there call him The voice of Irwindale Speedway. Judge for yourself as it runs most Saturdays between May and September. http://www.irwindalespeedway.com/

The Grand Prix race at Long Beach is another Flanders haunt. Bruce has announced every race there since 1978. The Associations president and CEO, the drivers, the fans, the advertisers all love him. Naturally they call him The Voice of the Grand Prix. For more information, visit http://www.gplb.com/

On Thursday April 14, 2016 Bruce Flanders became the 25th person to be inducted into the Long Beach Motorsports Walk of Fame. Movers, shakers and motorized royalty were in attendance and sang the praises of Flanders. The Mayor spoke about Bruce¹s legendary contributions to the field of motorsports. Flanders medallion that includes a microphone was unveiled in the sidewalk on Pine Avenue in front of the Long Beach Convention Center.

Congratulations Bruce Flanders. You truly are The voice of everything.

---

Happy Birthday to "The Voice of Speedway" Bruce Flanders June 5, 2020

A few years back I was honored to nominate Bruce into the Trailblazers Hall of Fame. Below is my presentation. It's well worth a read cause Bruce Flanders represents the best in the racing brotherhood

Bruce Flanders was born in Pasadena as were his two brothers John and Paul. Their Canadian dad Earl married Lucile from Altadena, California. Earl liked Speedway and at its pre-war height he raced four or five venues a week. In 1948 he won the AMA Jack Pine Enduro.

In August of 1945 Earl and Lucile opened Flanders Company. In the 50's they became the Western U.S. Distributor for BMW and NSU motorcycles. A Flanders Racing team soon followed with riders likes Dave Ekins and Harlen Bast. It was a great joy and education for three boys growing up around racing and the networks that support it.

The family that motorcycles together stays together and the Flanders family did it all. Earl was an AMA competition committee member, AMA district referee and Southern California race promoter. Earl also managed the annual speed trials held on the Utah Salt Flats. Speedway, Enduro, Desert, Bonneville, it didn't matter. Bruce Flanders loved motorcycles as much as his mom and dad did.

Middle brother Bruce graduated from Saint Francis High School in La Canada California. An AA degree in Business at Pasadena City College was planed but Geology, a very visual science was a course requirement. Bruce being colorblind ended up dropping the class.

Now carrying less than 15 and 1/2 college units Flanders was drafted. On his 21st birthday Bruce was in boot camp and by his 22nd in Vietnam. He served in the Army from 1966 through 1968. Don't ask him about it. War is hell.

Normal life returned once Bruce became a civilian again. Motorcycles, Flanders Company, racing. Bruce was enjoying it all. Tradition dictated that every year in August, Earl and the boys went to Bonneville. Bruce became an announcer there in 1968.

Family friend Jack Milne was putting a deal together to run Speedway in Orange County and needed an announcer. Jack's 1st choice was Earl Flanders but he declined and recommend Bruce for the job. On Friday, June 13, 1969 Bruce Flanders became the first announcer at Costa Mesa Speedway.

An upcoming work commitment to announce at Bonneville required a short absence from Speedway. When Bruce returned Larry Huffman had replaced him as the Costa Mesa announcer.

No hard feelings Bruce would rather race. 1970 saw him competing at Costa Mesa on a JAP owned by Butch Fairchild. His next machine was a Velocette powered Speedway bike that Flanders Company shop foreman George Williams designed and helped build. Longtime Velocette aficionado Ernie Pico provided the motor. It was a very light combination but suffered from too much chassis flex.

A Division-1 rider in Lancaster and Bakersfield and D-2 at Costa Mesa Bruce raced Speedway for four years. Unfortunately it was Flanders the announcer that got all the attention.

Bruce retired from active competition in 1974 when Lions Drag Strip hired him to be their Motor Cross announcer.

In 1975 Bruce Flanders was announcing Speedway Motorcycles four nights a week. Car promoters also came calling. In 1977 Ascot hired him to announce their Saturday night Sprint Car show.

Know for doing his homework demand for Flanders services grew. In 1978 it was over 100 gigs. The Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach, Formula Atlantic, the Toyota Pro Celebrity race, and Oldsmobile Pro Series were just a few of Bruce's clients. Del Mar, Caesars Palace, Sears Point, Glen Helen, IMS and dozens more utilized his services.

There were TV and cable shows. In 1983 Bruce hosted two Formula One shows for television. He also hosted award winning television productions for Mickey Thompson, Ultimate Frisbee, the short-lived "Fast Company" and many more.

In 2008 Bruce came down with pneumonia. Hardly able to move he spent days in the hospital. A cigarette smoker for over forty years Bruce was diagnosed with severe Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Almost always fatal they sent him home from the hospital to die.

Quitting is not a family trait so Flanders daughter Megan and wife Vickie slowly nursed him back. Oxygen machines (24/7) and up to three mile walks daily, Bruce regained his strength. Spending countless computer hours he searched for every COPD clinical trail on the internet. Often unaware these trails existed Bruce's doctors were amazed with his research. Often reluctant they approved his enrollment in a variety of cutting edge procedures. Some showed improvement, some were disastrous.

“This new clinical trial has been the most invasive so far and I’m a little anxious about the whole deal,” Bruce told me after one such enrollment. “I always walk a lot but still had to increase my exercise regimen by around fifty percent to qualify. I needed to bring the most fit body that I could to this procedure. I sure hope I live long enough to see stem cell therapy help to fix this problem" he relayed.

Flanders best medicine is his announcing and even in the darkest hours he performed. Unable to walk more than 10 steps at a time and always hooked up to an oxygen tank friends and family drove him to work. His voice still crisp and clear Bruce Flanders articulated why he is one of the best in the business. The fans gave him courage, the promoters gave respect. Even the racers were in awe.

"The Voice of Speedway" is a title the fans gave Bruce when he first announced the brakeless two-wheel circuit. A title richly deserved, fans, racers, sponsors and promoters loved the verbal excitement he brought to announcing. Bruce much like his dad loves Speedway motorcycle racing.

Wednesdays finds Flanders announcing Speedway at the Grand Arena in the City of Industry. "The Voice of Speedway" is so well respected there they hold an annual event in his honor each year. One of the seasons biggest nights "The Bruce Flanders Ugly Hawaiian Shirt Contest" is so popular it has achieved cult status.

Flanders is also "The Voice of the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach". The announcer there since 1978 Bruce is admired for his proper pronunciation of all those foreign names and his knowledge of the cars and racers. 2018 will mark Flanders 40th year of announcing at Long Beach.

Bruce is also the "The Voice of Irwindale Speedway". There since the track first opened in March of 1999 he announces NASCAR, USAC, Sprint Cars, Super Moto, Monster Trucks, Demolition Derby and a host of other 2 and 4 wheel disciplines that race at the 1/2 mile Super Speedway. Bruce expressed his sadness with the news that the Speedway will close at years end. "After 18 years I won't be working Saturday nights anymore he joked. I thought I would go before Irwindale Speedway did"

So what's next for the Flanders guy? Well the doctors say he's in his sunset but Bruce never got the memo. His calendar is already filled with 2018 commitments and his attitude and resolve are unshakable.

"I have announced more different forms of racing machines in more places for more different people and sanctioning bodies' than I can remember Bruce boasted. "Announcing is what I do and what I enjoy. "Its what keeps me alive.

"Still, I'm not complaining" Bruce continued. I have ridden the bull for the full 8 seconds and it is not over yet. I lived through Vietnam; I've got a great family. I set a land speed record for "Pops" Yoshimura on a Kawasaki KZ 1000 at Bonneville back in 1973. I rode Speedway and everything else with two wheels for years. I hope that I'm respected in the industry as a good announcer. Regardless of what else happens, it's been a good life"

So far Bruce Flanders is beating the odds but time is a cruel mistress. Hopefully this Board will approve Bruce for induction into the Trailblazers Hall of Fame. He is a worthy candidate.

Thanks for listening

Harald "Howie" Zechner

In Memory
R. I. P.