Detroit capping legend passes at 85..
 

http://www.freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/a...89/1066/SPORTS

Al 'Speed' Coffman gone at 85...

"For almost 50 years, Al Coffman wrote about horse racing in Detroit, but much of it was done in anonymity. Although his byline was used on the many feature stories he wrote, readers probably were more familiar with his handicapping alter ego, Al Speed..."

Al Speed, I had totally forgotten that name. Grew up in Detroit so I remember the name well. Also Bill Rayle. I didn't realize he was nationally acclaimed.

In those days you had to rely much more on the papers for much of your information for choosing horses, so those guys were really important.

At least he appeared to have lived a full life. RIP