The Isle of Man TT is a race like no other on Earth. Insane speed, questionably insane drivers and a 37 ¾ mile road circuit are just some of the ingredients that are thrown together to create the most adrenaline-fuelled race in motorsport.
Riders and spectators have been congregating at this now world famous island since 1907 and in that time it has mercilessly claimed the lives of well over 200 racers. Most recently in May 2014, Bob Price and Karl Harris – both highly experienced road racers – fell to the course as a tragic reminder of its lethality. Irrespective of its danger, competitors and fans alike return year after year, so if you haven’t checked it out before, here’s a beginner’s guide to the world’s most dangerous race.
History
It’s 107 years since Charlie Collier blazed around the St. John’s Short Court on his Matchless motorcycle whilst clocking a then-lightning average speed of 38.21mph. The time trial road race sees competitors hurtling around the track, leaving the start line at ten second intervals. Over the ensuing century, the race has evolved into one of the most high-profile in motorsport. The original race was held over a 15 mile circuit, although in 1911 the venue was switched for the first time to the Snaefell Mountain Course, increasing lap lengths to a mammoth 37.5 miles. Racing became sporadic as a result of two world wars and it wasn’t until 1947 that the narrow, rural roads were widened and a range of different classes were introduced. Disaster struck in 1976 when the race was stripped of its status as a world championship race due to safety concerns that resulted in several of the major drivers boycotting the event. In spite of this, the race continues to attract support from across the globe which has been rewarded by some of the most mind-blowing rides in TT racing.
The Big Guns
Every sporting event has their legends and the Isle of Mann TT is no different. Throughout its rich history, no one has had more individual success than Joey Dunlop. With 26 race wins at Snaefell Mountain across a variety of classes, he was declared the fifth greatest motorcycling icon ever by Motorcycle News back in 2005, although had passed away in 2000 in a fatal race crash. More recently, John McGuinness has become the standout man in the field and won his 21st TT race earlier this year in June whilst riding with an injured wrist.
Popularity
Each year, thousands of people descend on the Isle of Man by air or sea and can now witness average speeds in excess of 130mph. For those with suitable sea legs, ports along the coast offer ferrying options especially for the event, whilst Flybe and EasyJet offer a range of flights from Liverpool which can get you there in around 40 minutes. Alternatively, British Airways fly from London daily, the flight taking around 1 hour 20 minutes. An estimated 30,000 made the trip across this year, boosting the island’s economy by an estimated £19m.
Summary
Whether you’re an experienced biker or a total newcomer, the Isle of Man TT offers a thrilling way to experience one of the world’s great sporting events right here in the British Isles. Its undoubted danger belies a furiously competitive sport which boasts some of the most advanced bike mechanics out there. With John McGuinness right on the heels of Joey Dunlop’s 26 win record, the coming years could be an exhilarating time to experience the thrill of the TT for yourself.
Written by Adam King
