Jason Bonham, Led Zeppelin drummer and son of the legendary John Bonham, made a surprise appearance at Teme Valley’s opening meeting of the season last Sunday.  Bonham flew in from Florida especially for the meeting, after speaking with the AMCA’s Carole Davies, who kindly sorted him a one-day licence. 

Bonham is no stranger to the AMCA, having ridden with the organisation over the years in between his music commitments and has a strong alliance with Teme Valley, from which he is an ex member.

Having decided to ride, Teme Valley club member Ray Lewis offered up his bike. But in true superstardom style, Bonham decided to fly in his own factory front and rear suspension, forks and rear shocks, handlebars and plastics.  Long time friend Andy Willetts spent a few chaotic days setting up the bike and, after a few teething problems, the bike was all set.  Not so good for Ray Lewis who was also competing in the Seniors, but hey, how often does a superstar ride your bike.

Bonham was understandably nervous, he hadn’t ridden for a while, especially a wet track, having spent the past five years riding in the sand in his hometown of Boca Raton, Florida.  Despite an off in the first race, which saw him involved in a start line pile up, Bonham got better as the day progressed and really enjoyed the racing. 

Bonham was definitely the star attraction on the day and received masses of support from spectators cheering him on around the track but as the day wore on, Bonham could be seen wandering the track and watching the racing, chatting amiably with old friends. Teme Valley report. Galleries