THE accolades keep coming for Ivan Mauger OBE MBE, the most decorated solo rider in speedway racing history.

Winner of an unsurpassed six world speedway and three long track titles, the legendary New Zealander was inducted into the Australian motorcycling hall of fame on the Gold Coast on Saturday (September 1) and this week will make a sentimental journey to his native Christchurch for two more honours ceremonies.

On Thursday (September 6) the keys to the city of Christchurch are to be awarded to Mauger, Ronnie Moore and Barry Briggs, all of whom went overseas and became world champions.

Moore won the crown in 1954 and 1959, Briggs in 1957, 1958, 1964 and 1966 before Mauger embarked on his series of victories in 1968, 1969, 1970, 1972, 1977 and 1979. 

Also on Thursday, Mauger will attend the official dedication of a spectacular display at the Canterbury Museum entitled King of Speedway.  Pride of place in the exhibition goes to the gold-plated bike on which he won his first three world titles, and the fabled winged wheel world championship trophy.

The Australian award, which includes five-time world 500cc champion Mick Doohan among its inductees, took place at the Bike Week Festival at Carrara, attended by 25,000 motorcycle enthusiasts.  Mauger is the first non Australian to be inducted.

Two of Christchurch’s champions will be reunited for the key-handing ceremony with Moore, who still lives in the city, accompanying Mauger but Briggs is in the United States and cannot attend.

The museum exhibition launch will cap off a hectic few days for Mauger who is delighted some of his outstanding artifacts now have a new home.

“It’s a great personal honour and I hope will be something to interest and encourage the next generation of New`Zealand riders,” said Mauger, who  will preside over a national speedway academy for emerging talent in January, 2008.