We are saddened to learn of the the recent passing of former Western Speedway Track Security Officer and 1998 “Pioneer” award winner Milt Schop.
Beginning in the late 1960’s and for many years thereafter, Milt ensured that Western Speedway’s patrons didn’t have to put up with fellow fans who were being overly loud and/or annoying, as well as pursuing and apprehending those freeloaders who sought to avoid paying admission by attempting to watch the evening’s races from the track’s first turn hill or other non-grandstand locations. He carried out his duties with dead seriousness and extreme dedication, but also with a heart of gold. Those few “extreme case” individuals who sought to physically challenge Milt’s authority quickly paid for their indiscretion with a quick and decisive blow from his large and very heavy metal flashlight which he always carried. Living a short distance away from the track on Millstream Road, he was always the last person to leave after making sure that all fans had left and that the entire property was secure. He was well liked by Speedway officials, fans and competitors alike.
