3rd March 2010BMW
will return to the Isle of Man TT in 2010, it has been announced.
The involvement of the German
manufacturer is another major boost for the event, which recently announced a
KTM superbike will race this year and that the 2010 TT will see the British
racing debut of a Moto2 Grand Prix machine. It is the first time since the
late 1970s that an official BMW team has entered the TT, and the announcement
comes just 12 months after the Bavarian manufacturer re-entered top flight
motorcycle racing in the Superbike World Championship.
BMW first entered the TT in 1937 and has won 30 races, the majority in the
sidecar class. The last time an official BMW team raced at the TT, more than
30 years ago, the riders were Helmut Dahne and Hans Otto Butenuth. At the 2010
TT, the BMW Superbike will be ridden in both the Superbike and Senior TT races
by Germany’s Rico Penzkofer, who finished fifth at last year’s Macau Grand
Prix. An official test rider for BMW, 34-year-old has been part of the major
development team of the S1000RR, a bike that has created headlines all over
the world both for its design and performance.
Penzkofer made a strong debut at the TT last year, when he contested the two
Supersport races. He achieved a personal best lap of just under 120mph and
left the Island with two bronze replicas. With a year’s experience around the
Mountain Course, the Borna rider is expected to feature more prominently this
year and the former World Endurance Championship race winner is relishing his
return to the TT.
He said: “To be representing BMW on their return to the TT is a tremendous
honour for me and after my debut last year I can’t wait to return to the
Mountain Course, riding the Superbike will obviously present a new challenge,
but the bike is superb and that, combined with my own improved knowledge of
the course, should see us able to make a good impression.”
“Troy Corser and Ruben Xaus have proved in World Superbikes that the bike is
competitive and we hope to do the same at the TT.”
Tourism and Leisure Minister Martyn Quayle added: “It’s re ally exciting to
see the return of such a prestigious marque to the Isle of Man TT and their
involvement in the 2010 races is a great boost to an already strong list of
manufacturers – more evidence that the TT is going from strength to strength.”
Top of Page
25th February 2010
KTM enter Isle of Man TT Races for the first time
- Iconic Austrian brand to debut at TT 2010 with Redline Motorcycles and James
Edmeades
Austrian manufacturer
KTM are set to increase the levels of official manufacturer participation at
the 2010 Isle of Man TT Races with the news that Redline Motorcycles will be
entering one of the flagship KTM RC8R Superbike machines in the Superbike,
Superstock and Senior TT Races. The off-road giants have been increasing their
road racing efforts in recent years with 2009 seeing official participation in
both the Austrian and German Superbike Championships and it is anticipated
that the machine on the Island will mirror those in specification in what will
be KTM’s first ever TT appearance. The man given the task of riding the bright
orange bike will be Loughborough’s James Edmeades. The 26-year old is no
stranger to the TT having ridden in the 2006, 2007 and 2008 events. The former
Virgin R6 Cup rider narrowly missed out on his first 120mph lap in 2007 and
has already picked up two bronze replicas from his nine races whilst he also
took a strong fifth in last season’s RC8 Super Cup Championship.
In addition to the TT outing, Edmeades will campaign the bike in this year’s
British Superbike Evo Championship and he is eagerly looking forward to his
return to the Mountain Course. “The opportunity to become the first KTM rider
at the Isle of Man TT Races is a tremendous honour for me and after the three
great years I enjoyed between 2006 and 2008, I can’t wait to get back on the
Island. The KTM RC8R is a superb bike and I’m sure it will perform well around
the course with its excellent handling qualities.
He continued: “I was carrying an injury when I was last at the TT and didn’t
perform as I would have liked which is something I’m keen to put right this
year. I’m sure both myself and the team will give a good account of ourselves
and further prove the capabilities of the KTM Superbike machine.” KTM will
join Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki and Kawasaki with their official manufacturer
supported efforts at this year’s TT whilst discussions with other leading
manufacturers not currently represented at the TT are close to being
finalised.
Hon Martyn Quayle, MHK, Minister for Tourism and Leisure, Isle of Man
Government commented: “It will be fantastic to see KTM competing for the first
time on the Isle of Man and how appropriate that they will be lining up on the
grid with Suzuki who are celebrating their 50th anniversary of racing at the
TT. It shows the continued strength and enduring appeal of the TT Races and I
hope that KTM will have a long and successful TT history.”
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24th February 2010
Moto2 GP bike set for sensational Isle of Man TT
debut
- Olie Linsdell teams up with FTR to bring state of the art prototype machine
to the TT
The Isle of Man TT Races are again proving their worldwide importance and
value to the motorcycling world with the sensational news that one of the
all-new Moto2 GP bikes will be contesting the Senior TT. The 600cc bikes have
replaced the two-stroke 250cc machines at GP level and the 2010 TT will be the
first place that race fans will see the bike being raced in the British Isles.
British chassis manufacturers FTR will be supplying the Honda-engined machine.
It will be a similar spec to that being ridden in the Grands Prix by riders
including former 125cc World Champion Gabor Talmacsi and GP winners Alex Debon
and Andrea Iannone. British rider Graeme Gowland has also had considerable
success on the machine when he raced in the Spanish Championship at the end of
2009.
Bedfordshire based Olie Linsdell will be riding the special GP bike, which
should be able to mirror the speeds of the Supersport bikes. Olie will be
following in his father’s footsteps in riding a revolutionary machine on the
Mountain Course. Steve Linsdell was the last man to ride a GP bike in a Senior
TT when he rode the 500cc Paton in 2007 and he has also ridden bikes like the
GTS1000 Yamaha and Triumph Saxon at a high level. 22-year old Linsdell, a
double Manx Grand Prix winner in 2007, looked set to have a strong TT 12
months ago until he broke his leg during Wednesday evening’s practice session
following an incident at Glen Duff. He was back in the saddle for the Classic
2009 Manx Grand Prix where he led the race until being forced to retire on the
final lap. One of the brightest talents to emerge in recent years, Linsdell is
now 100% fit and is clearly excited to be given such an opportunity. He
commented:
“The Moto2 GP class is exciting for everyone at the moment and I’m delighted
and honoured to get the opportunity to race one at the TT. There’s a big buzz
around the class and while the 600cc bike won’t be quick enough to challenge
the Superbikes for the win in the Senior TT, there’s no reason at all why it
can’t lap in excess of 125mph and get inside the top ten which would be a
great achievement.
He continued: “Both the team and I obviously have a lot to learn about how the
bike will cope with the Mountain Course but the chassis is as good as anything
else out there and we’ll be aiming to match, if not better, the 600cc
Supersport lap times. The whole project is sure to create a lot of interest
during TT fortnight and we’re confident we can do it justice and get a
credible result.”
Hon Martyn Quayle, MHK, Minister for Tourism and Leisure, Isle of Man
Government commented: “The TT has always provided a great test-bed for new and
innovative machinery since its inception in 1907 and everyone is really
looking forward to seeing how the Moto 2 GP bike performs on the course. This
year’s event is sure to be fascinating for spectators with a wide range of
manufacturers – both new and established – competing against each other as
well as the return of some old favourites.”
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23rd February 2010
Tim
Reeves' 2010 TT appearance in doubt
Sidecar ace Tim Reeves is facing an uncertain Isle of Man TT future after one
of his main sponsors withdrew their support for the 2010 road racing season.
The triple World Sidecar champion, who finished in a brilliant third on his
Mountain Course debut in 2008, was due to contest the two Formula Two sidecar
races with new passenger Dan Sayle but their appearance is now very much in
doubt thus potentially depriving the event of one of its main stars.
Already
the sixth fastest driver in the history of the TT, Reeves and Sayle were
expected to be one of the main favourites for honours in June, the Kent man
going into his third season of TT competition and Manxman Sayle already the
outright lap record holder and 4-times winner. The duo had also planned to
switch to Honda power to aid their cause as they aimed to get ahead of main
rivals Dave Molyneux, John Holden and Simon Neary. However, the loss of
sponsorship now means that Reeves is currently facing a spell on the sidelines
and unable to run his F2 outfit unless a new sponsor can be found.
Speaking on Monday, Tim said: "Coming in to my third year at the TT, the only
thing on my mind was winning and with support from Honda everything was
looking rosy but I now find myself facing the prospect of missing the races
altogether. I'm only interested in going there to win but to upgrade the F2
outift and run it again this season is going to cost something in the region
of £15,000 so unless that can be found I won't be on the Island in June. I'm
desperate to put the last two years of experience and knowledge into good
practice and get a TT win so I hope someone can come onboard soon and help us
make that dream a reality."
The Isle of Man TT Races take place from May 29 - June 11 and potential
sponsors can contact Tim on 07595 929376
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17th February 2010
Isle of Man Government Department of Tourism and Leisure launches 2010 TT
Races hospitality packages
- All forms of TT tickets available from official Travel Agency Regency Travel
The 2010 TT VIP packages are now available direct from the Official TT Races
Travel Partner Regency Travel. Regency Travel is now marketing hospitality
only tickets as well as VIP travel and accommodation. Fans can also purchase
grandstand tickets from the Douglas based company.
The ‘VIP Club Hospitality only packages’ are priced at £225 plus VAT per
guest. The deal grants exclusive access to the TT VIP Club where people can
entertain their guests at the heart of the world famous race. The TT VIP Club
is located trackside in Nobles Park and has capacity for 200 guests.
The ‘VIP Club Hospitality Package’ offers the guests all day access to the
Hospitality Suite. This includes a complimentary bar open during licensing
hours, breakfast served until 10am and a gourmet hot and cold buffet lunch
prepared by first class chefs. Tickets can be purchased individually or booked
as tables of eight.
The package also offers reserved grandstand seating; a bird’s eye view from
the hospitality suite roof-top, access to the TT paddock, exclusive rider
appearances and race day competitions with money can’t buy prizes. Guests will
also receive a special souvenir TT gift pack that includes official
merchandise, the official TT programme, a race guide and an ear-piece radio
tuned to Manx Radio’s ‘Radio TT’, the official TT radio station.
VIP guests are also treated to an exclusive chat with TT winning riders
shortly after each race as well as hearing the thoughts of the VIP guests.
Last year Valentino Rossi, Murray Walker and Bradley Smith dropped into the
Hospitality area and a number of high profile celebrities are again expected
to attend in 2010.
The Hospitality packages are available for each of the four race days at the
2010 TT Races. Saturday 5th June sees the prestigious TT Superbike Race and
the first Sidecar Race, Monday 7th June features the Royal London 360
Superstock Race and the first Supersport Race. The second Supersport and
second Sidecar Races are scheduled to take place on Wednesday 9th June along
with the clean emissions TT Zero Race and the week finishes on Friday 11th
with the Senior Race, Suzuki 50th Anniversary Parade and TT Classic Parade.
You can reserve your place in the TT VIP Club now by calling +44 1624 694456 or
email
sales@regencytravelholidays.com
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28th January 2010
Clean emissions motorcycle racing to return to the Isle of Man TT in 2010
- - ‘TT Zero’ event scheduled as integral part of Isle of Man TT Races
calendar
- Isle of Man Government puts up £10,000 prize for first team to record
100mph lap
Following the success of the inaugural clean emissions motorcycle race on
the Isle of Man in 2009, the Isle of Man Government Department of Tourism
and Leisure, the promoter of the TT Races, today confirmed that a clean
emissions race would again take place on the TT Mountain Course, as part
of the 2010 TT Races programme.
The clean emissions race in 2009 has been widely credited with
accelerating the development of clean emissions transport and many of the
technical innovations that were introduced in the Isle of Man are expected
to become an integral part of future mass market
transport. The event was conceived with the support and involvement of
numerous Departments of the Isle of Man Government as part of the Island’s
Freedom to Flourish programme. The 2010 clean emissions race on the Isle
of Man has been renamed ‘TT Zero’ and the race
will become part of the core TT programme. It will feature riders who are
also competing in the other TT classes. The one lap race will be open to
clean emission motorcycles and will take place on Wednesday 9th June at
4.30pm, following the Royal London 360 Superstock
and Supersport Races. There will also be qualifying sessions on Saturday
5th and Monday 7th June.
As with the core TT Races programme TT Zero will be run by ACU Events Ltd,
using the latest FIM regulations. However TTXGP Ltd, who promoted the 2009
event, will not be involved and the Isle of Man Government’s Department of
Tourism and Leisure will become
the race promoter for the clean emissions race as well as the core TT
Races programme. As well as the usual prize money available to teams and
riders, the Isle of Man Government has also created a £10,000 prize fund
for the first TT Zero Race team to record a 100mph
lap (160.93kph) around the 37 and 3/4 mile course. This landmark was
achieved for the first time by a conventional bike in 1957, when Scotsman
Bob McIntyre lapped the TT Course in 22 minutes 24.4 seconds for an
overall average of 101.03mph. Rob Barber and Team Agni recorded a fastest
lap time of 25 minutes 53.5 seconds (87.434mph) in the 2009 clean
emissions race. -
-
-
-
- Hon Martyn Quayle, MHK, Minister for Tourism and Leisure, Isle of Man
Government, commented: “We have enjoyed a very successful partnership with
TTXGP Ltd and I would like to take this opportunity to thank them for
their hard work last year. We look forward to welcoming many of the
electric bike teams and riders back to the Isle of Man in 2010 as well as
to seeing new challengers pitting their wits against the Mountain Course.”
He continued: “We are delighted that the Isle of Man was the first country
to run an electric bike race and the fact that there are now events
scheduled around the world is a tribute to the Island’s entrepreneurial,
innovative spirit and shows what an achievement it was for the Isle of Man
to run the groundbreaking inaugural event. We are now building on this
fantastic start by properly integrating the clean emissions class into the
race programme - this really does send a clear signal that electric
motorsport is fast evolving and that the TT Races remain at the forefront
of motorcycle sport.”
-
-
Regulations and entry forms for the TT Zero Race will be released on
Friday 29th of January and the forms will only be available in electronic
format, and can be downloaded from the official Isle of Man TT Web Site,
iomtt.com. The closing date for entries has been set as Friday, March
26th, 2010.
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22nd December 2009
MANX
TELECOM POST TT RACES
Practice and Race Programme Announced
Following on from the excellent news that Manx Telecom are to be the
title sponsors of the Post TT Road Races on Saturday 12th June 2010, the
organising Southern 100 Club have wasted no time in finalising the race
programme for the event which will bring the 2010 TT Festival to a close.
Practice for the Manx Telecom Post TT Road Races will take place on the
afternoon of Saturday 12th June to be followed
- by three eight-lap Races.
Race 1. 125cc/400cc run concurrently as a two class race.
Race 2. 250cc/ 650cc twins run concurrently as a two class race.
Race 3. 600cc race.
Between practice and racing there will be a break of 45-minutes, allowing
the course to be opened for members of the public. Actual timings have yet
to be finalised and will be announced once Regulations and Entry Forms are
available.
The club looks forward to the continued support of all the two-stroke
sponsors, riders and enthusiasts to ensure the continued success of this
popular meeting and to keep the sights and sights of these unique machines
racing around the Billown Course.
The Club would ask sponsors, entrants and riders to email race secretary
George Peach (georgepeach@manx.net) to indicate their support and
intention to enter the meeting. Further details will be announced in due
course.
ENDS
Top of Page
17th December 2009
MANX TELECOM POST TT RACES
MANX TELECOM STEPS IN TO SAVE POST TT RACES
Manx Telecom is to become the new face of the
prestigious Post TT Races, it has been announced.
The island’s premier telecommunications Company is to sponsor
the 2010 event which will take place on the Billown Circuit at the end of the
TT fortnight. The meeting will be officially named The Manx Telecom Post TT
Races.
The sponsorship deal was signed this week between Manx Telecom
and the race organisers, the Southern 100 Club.
Andy Bridson and Phil Taubman (Southern 100 Chairman) signing the agreement
as Phil Edge (Press Officer), Voirrey Barron (Manx Telecom Marketing
Communications Manager) & George Peach (Race Secretary) witness the event.
The Post TT races, a traditional finale to the TT fortnight
which attract many of the star name road racers, have been a fixture on the
Billown Circuit since 1991. But with the withdrawal of sponsorship from the
Department of Tourism and Leisure following the 2009 meeting, there were
genuine fears that the event would have to be scrapped. “This would have
been a huge disappointment to everyone connected with the event; the
organisers, the riders and the thousands of spectators who come to watch the
racing,” said Southern 100 Press Officer Phil Edge.
“So we are tremendously grateful to Manx Telecom for stepping
in and literally saving the event. It is marvellous news to attract such a
high profile sponsor,” he added. Sales and Marketing Director Andy Bridson
said the Company was honoured to be associated with the Post TT Races.
“This is a very prestigious and much loved event in the Isle of Man road
racing calendar and Manx Telecom is proud to have its name associated with it.
We look forward to welcoming all the teams, riders and, of course spectators,
to the Billown Circuit next summer for some exciting racing,” he said.
The Manx Telecom Post TT Races feature the 125cc and 250cc
classes but the exact configuration of the race programme has yet to be
decided. The event will be staged on Saturday June 12, the day after the
Senior TT. Should the Senior TT be postponed to the Saturday, then the Manx
Telecom Post TT races will take place on Sunday June 13.
Ends
Top of Page
1st December 2009
Isle of Man TT winner Ryan Farquhar has announced his
plans for the 2010 season.
The Dungannan man will once again ride Kawasaki machinery in
the International and National road races, joining forces with MSS Colchester
Kawasaki for his Superbike campaign.
The partnership was confirmed at the Carole Nash International
Motorcycle show at Birmingham’s NEC.
For the 2010 TT, the 33-year-old will ride a
specially-prepared Ninja ZX-10R Superbike. MSS Colchester Kawasaki will create
a dedicated Superbike, similar in specification to their British Superbike
machines, but set-up to cope for with the unique demands of the long distance
road circuits.
Farquhar will also ride his own KMR-run Kawasakis in the
Supersport and Superstock TT races.
The Superbike will be in the same colours as the MSS
Colchester Kawasaki British Superbike team while the 600cc and Superstock
machines will once again run in Farquhar’s familiar black and orange livery.
The 2009 Duke Road Race Rankings winner will also ride the MSS
Colchester Kawasaki Superbike at the North West 200 and Ulster Grand Prix.
This year has been one of great success. In addition to
claiming the Duke Road Race Rankings title for the fourth time, Farquhar took
61 race wins, seven road race championships, surpassed Joey Dunlop’s record of
110 Irish national race wins and was voted Irish Motorcyclist of the Year.
Farquhar said:
‘I’m really excited about this opportunity. I’ve seen the
speed of the MSS bikes during British Superbike this year and the team have
been doing really well. Nick Morgan has been doing my engines for many years
and it’s great to be supported by the team and Kawasaki UK, I can’t wait.’
‘With the MSS Colchester Kawasaki Superbike and my own KMR
team, it promises to be another great season.’
MSS Colchester Kawasaki team owner Nick Morgan added:
‘We’re very pleased to be able to announce a full road
racing programme with Ryan at the forefront. Ryan had a very strong year on
the roads and we had a great leap forward in BSB, so it could all come
together for a great season.’
Kawasaki Motor UK Sales and Marketing Manager Michael
Johnstone said:
‘This is an impressive partnership, our official Kawasaki
Motors UK Superbike team and one of the most successful road racers of all
time.’
‘We look forward to seeing how Ryan performs using the very
latest Ninja machinery.’
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Top of Page
26th November
2009
Spectacular entertainment programme promises to test stamina of
Isle of Man TT fans!
The Isle of Man
Department of Tourism and Leisure today announced an action packed Festival for
the 2010 TT Races. The programme will see seven nights of thrilling
entertainment on Douglas sea front as well as the return of many old favourites
around the rest of the Island.
Extreme sports,
stunt shows, air displays, music, comedy and film will all feature in the
action-packed calendar. Fans will also have numerous opportunities to meet and
greet their heroes at the chat shows and fan zones during the festival. And if
that wasn’t enough, TT2010 will also feature the 50th anniversary celebrations
of leading Japanese manufacturer Suzuki's involvement in the TT Races.
The entertainment
programme kicks off on Thursday 3rd June with the TT ‘Day of
Champions’. Former motorcycling champions and TT legends will be interviewed on
the main stage at the TT Grandstand. All the stars will also be on hand to meet
fans, give racing tips and sign autographs. With even more stars appearing daily
during race week, the TT Main Stage will be at the heart of the action.
Some of the UK’s
leading stand-up comedians are also being lined up to appear on the Island
during the TT festival. The Island has earned itself a reputation as a comedy
hotbed in recent months with performances from the likes of Lee Evans, Alan
Carr, Sean Lock, Ross Noble, Al Murray and Michael McIntyre and negotiations are
currently at an advanced stage in confirming appearances in 2010.
Saturday 5th
June sees the beginning of the seven-night ‘Extreme Sports’ extravaganza
on Harris Promenade. The TT Entertainment Zone will feature seven individual
shows featuring the best extreme sports acts, stunt shows and classic bikes.
These shows are sure to be extremely popular but fans needn’t worry too much
about missing any of the action as everything will be replayed on a huge video
screen.
Thrill seekers
will be able to experience an adrenaline rush of their own with a choice of
bungee jumping, gyroscopes, simulators, slingshots and more. There will also be
a dedicated children’s experience as part of the activities.
There are a large
number of live music experiences scheduled throughout the Island during the
fortnight and the official action will take place on Douglas Promenade. The TT
Live stage will be situated high above the crowds on the Villa Marina Colonnade
and will host an eclectic mix of bands every night. The Villa Marina Promenade
Suite will turn into a TT Nightclub for the duration of the Festival with live
music every night, cabaret and extended bar opening till 2am, whilst some of the
UK’s leading headline music acts are being lined up to play the Villa Marina
Royal Hall during Race Week. There will also be live music every evening at the
ever-popular ‘Bushy’s Beer Tent’ featuring the best local talent.
The Villa Marina
will also host the post race prize presentations on Monday 7th and
Wednesday 9th June with fans getting the chance to mingle with the
prize winners from the Superbike, Sidecar, Superstock and Supersport races.
Manx National
Heritage will be hosting a temporary exhibition celebrating Suzuki’s 50th
anniversary of competing in the TT at the Manx Museum in Douglas. Suzuki
machines have been hugely prominent at the TT Races since 1960 and the
exhibition promises to be a treat for anyone interested in motorcycle racing. It
will feature historic machinery, leathers and memorabilia marking the highlights
of Suzuki’s participation on the Isle of Man. Among the Suzuki names featured
will be Mitsui Ito, Ernst Degner, Mick Grant, David Jefferies, Adrian Archibald
and Bruce Anstey. The exhibition is the first in a number of events being
planned by Suzuki during the 2010 TT to celebrate their anniversary.
The TT this year
will also offer something for fans of Moto GP. Sunday 6th June is
being earmarked as ‘Moto GP day’ at the TT Grandstand. Leading motorcycle
industry personalities will host a live screening of all of the action from the
Italian Grand Prix at Mugello as well as chat shows and race analysis in the
Grandstand’s ‘fan-zone’
The Grandstand’s
giant screen will also be replaying all the action from the TT fortnight. The
Qualifying, Preview and Race highlights programmes will be shown every evening
following the day’s action along with live timing data and Radio TT commentaries
during the races.
There will be more
big screen action at the Villa Marina throughout race week. The Broadway Cinema
will be showing a full programme of bike themed films in celebration of all
things ‘two wheels’. A particular highlight will be a rare screening of ‘Take
it to the Limit’. Hosted by director Peter Starr, the film features classic
1970’s race action from riders such as Steve Baker, Kenny Roberts and Barry
Sheene. There is also footage of Mike Hailwood’s return to the Island as a
travelling marshal for the 1977 Manx Grand Prix ahead of his 1978 TT return.
The action during
the TT festival won’t just be confined to Douglas. Peel in the West of the
Island will host a special TT Day on Sunday 6th June featuring
attractions for all the family. Ramsey continues to host the ever-popular Ramsey
Sprint on Tuesday 8th June, the drag sprint held on the Mooragh
Promenade on the north side of the town. Open to everyone, the Sprint features a
wide range of bikes and experiences for all the family. The Red Arrows are also
planned to appear for a display during the day and will return during the
evening over Douglas Bay performing during the ever popular Douglas Beach Race.
Plans are also being finalised for a TT event to be held in the picturesque town
of Port Erin in the South of the Island.
The action moves
to Laxey on the east coast of the Island on Thursday 10th when local
motorcycle club the Moddey Dhoo host their annual meeting on Laxey breakwater.
The day will feature chat shows, auctions, custom motorbike displays and live
music.
The entertainment
schedule comes to a climatic end on Senior Race Day, Friday 11th
June, with the final night of action on Douglas Promenade. Included in the
programme will be the Senior TT Prize Presentation, a ‘Winner’s Parade’
featuring all the week’s race winners and their winning machines, the Battle of
Britain air show and a huge fireworks display to mark the end of the festival.
Hon
Martyn Quayle, MHK, Minister for Tourism and Leisure commented:
“We’ve
carried out a lot of research and put a huge effort into coming up with a
festival that we think will have something for everyone. We’ve got lots going
on all over the island, especially during race week itself and many of the
attractions and events are free to attend. We want to make sure that visitors
and Island residents are able to find many things to do throughout the TT this
year.”
-
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Top of Page
26th November
2009
John
McGuinness heads list of former winners returning to the Isle of Man for TT 2010
- 11 former
winners set to compete in 2010 Isle of Man TT Races
TT legend John
McGuinness is again expected to be the man to beat in the 2010 TT Races as he
looks to add to his list of 15 solo titles on the Isle of Man. John is now
second on the all-time winners list behind only Joey Dunlop’s 26 victories.
However there
could be 10 other riders with TT wins lining up against him next year, led by
Relentless by TAS Suzuki team-mates Bruce Anstey and Cameron Donald. The
Northern Ireland based team are one of the few leading outfits to have announced
their team in 2010 and they will be looking to benefit from confirming their
line-up at the earliest opportunity. Cameron Donald will be particularly keen
to make his mark in 2010 as an injury sustained during last year’s practices
robbed him of the chance to defend his Superbike title after he’d set an
unofficial lap record during qualifying.
Michael Dunlop
will be looking to build on his first TT success in 2009, when he won the
Relentless Supersport Race while his brother William will be keen to add his own
name to the Dunlop dynasty honours board.
Steve Plater will
be hoping to defend the inaugural TT Championship title that he won in 2009,
which he clinched with his win in the blue riband Pokerstars Senior TT on the
final day but a number of riders are expected to challenge him for the title -
none more so than double TT 2009 race winner Ian Hutchinson who lost the
outright Championship title on the final lap of the Senior Race.
Other former
winners expected to appear again in 2010 include Ian Lougher, Ryan Farquhar,
Chris Palmer, Adrian Archibald and Michael Rutter. There are also a group of
riders who achieved podiums in 2009 and will be looking to make the top step in
2010, particularly fans favourite Guy Martin who is still looking for his first
TT victory.
Local favourite
Conor Cummins will be aiming to become only the fourth Manx TT solo race winner
ever after his outstanding performances at TT 2009, culminating in his runner-up
spot in the Senior TT. Gary Johnson and Keith Amor are also expected to be
challenging the front-runners following their TT podiums last year.
There will also be
a chance for riders further down the field to claim a title in 2010 with the
creation of The TT Privateer Championship. This new introduction to the TT Races
allows solo teams and solo riders of independent status to compete with
recognition at the highest level in the world’s premier closed public roads
motorcycle race. Entries will be accepted against predefined criteria and
points will be awarded to
the first fifteen riders in the Superbike, Superstock, Supersport and the Senior
TT Races using a world championship points scoring system with awards for the
top three finishers at the end of Race Week.
The two sidecar
races are again expected to be extremely competitive with former and current
world champions lining up against 14 time winner Dave Molyneux and new partner
Gary Partridge. Molyneux will be competing in the famous green colours of
Kawasaki and the manufacturer will be hoping to record their first sidecar TT
victory.
The Birchall
Brothers, Ben and Tom, will be returning to the TT as current World Champions
and will be looking to build on their fastest lap of 110.615 whilst former World
Champion Tim Reeves has a new partner in experienced competitor Dan Sayle and
will be looking to emulate his third place as a newcomer in 2008. Simon Neary
and Stuart Bond will also be quietly confident of building on their 2009 podium
with the backing of newly formed race team run by outright lap record holders
Nicky Crowe and Mark Cox.
Meanwhile a host of
talented newcomers are set to join the entry list for 2010 in both the solo and
sidecar classes. The DTL Rider Recruitment Team headed up by TT aces Richard
‘Milky’ Quayle and John Barton have been discussing debuts with a number of
leading riders from the British Superbike Championship paddock as well as riders
from Europe and further a field and several have already visited the Island to
begin learning the 37 and ¾ mile course ahead of a debut in June 2010.
Hon Martyn Quayle,
MHK, Minister for Tourism and Leisure, Isle of Man Government, commented:
“We
already think that we will have one of the strongest line ups at the TT in
living memory. With the return of a host of lap and race record holders,
current champions and former winners fans can expect fast laps and close racing
on the Isle of Man in 2010.”
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26th November
2009
Isle of Man Government Department of
Tourism and Leisure appoint Regency Travel as official Travel and Ticketing
Agency for the Isle of Man TT Races
- Manx based
company to offer worldwide packages to visit the TT Races
Isle of Man based
travel company Regency Travel has been appointed as the official Travel Agency
of the TT Races following a tender process. The company will market a wide
range of packages, designed to suit all budgets, for fans to visit the races.
The trips will include premium packages featuring top end hotels as well as
homestay and camping breaks at Glenlough, Union Mills, the football club at St
John’s and the St George’s campsite next to the TT Grandstand in Douglas.
Regency Travel
will be offering a full ‘destination management service’ that will include
travel, accommodation, excursions, transfers, car rental, ground support and
24-hour emergency assistance. They are also able to arrange group travel and
will be the official ticketing agency for TT Grandstand and TT Hospitality VIP
tickets.
The company has
been instrumental in developing direct flights from the Isle of Man to Europe
and will be offering direct flights to and from the Island to Belgium (Bruges)
and Paris during the TT in 2010.
As part of the
contract, Regency Travel will be developing a website that will allow visitors
to ‘tailor-make’ and book their own packages. The site, which will be up and
running in March 2010, will be live 24 hours a day, and will allow visitors to
book their entire trip, from door-to-door, from any destination worldwide. They
will also have a hotline number to assist with telephone queries and bookings.
The Regency team
will support the Department of Tourism and Leisure in their promotional
activities and representatives will be on hand at the Carol Nash NEC Motorcycle
and Scooter Show to answer any questions and take bookings.
Richard Howarth,
Sales and Marketing Manager, Regency Travel, commented:
“We
are looking to make it as easy as possible for people to book and visit the TT.
We think that our tailor made packages will appeal to a broad market and we are
really looking forward to helping develop and promote the TT worldwide.”
Hon Martyn Quayle,
MHK, Minister for Tourism and Leisure, Isle of Man Government, commented:
“This
is a critical appointment for the TT and I’m delighted that we have a Manx
company on board to help us achieve our objectives. We are looking to capitalise
on the global profile that the event now enjoys by increasing the number of
visitors to the Isle of Man and boosting the local economy.”
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26th November
2009
Department of Tourism and
Leisure announces 2010 Isle of Man TT Races Programme
- Mountain Course race
schedule reverts to core programme
- Billown Lightweight and
Ultra Lightweight TT Races no longer part of schedule
- Parade laps return on
Senior Race Day in 2010
Following the thrilling
series of races in 2009, when all of the solo race records were broken and a new
outright lap record was also set, the Department of Tourism and Leisure has
announced that the main 2010 TT Race programme will remain unchanged. However,
the Billown TT Races will no longer form part of the TT Race programme as the
race organisers have decided to concentrate resources on the core mountain
circuit races in 2010.
Visitors to the 2009 TT
Races were treated to the fastest laps in history, the visit of Moto GP star
Valentino Rossi as well as witnessing the first TT win for the latest member of
the Dunlop dynasty, 21 year old Michael Dunlop. The crowds also saw the fastest
ever female lap of the course from newcomer Jenny Tinmouth.
As in 2008, nine different
riders featured on the podium in 2009 with Michael Dunlop scoring his first TT
win, following in the footsteps of uncle Joey and father Robert. This win is
expected to take the number of former winners returning to the Island to contest
the 2010 solo TT races to 11.
John McGuinness confirmed
his position as one of the greatest TT riders of all time by moving to outright
second place in the winners list with 15 TT victories, behind only Joey Dunlop’s
26 titles, passing the great Mike Hailwood, while Dave Molyneux moved further
ahead at the top of the all time sidecar list, extending his titles to 14, four
ahead of second placed Rob Fisher.
Qualifying week starts with
a Free Practice session on Saturday 29th May 2010 and runs until
Friday 4th June. Race Week begins with the Superbike and first
Sidecar Race on Saturday June 5th. Monday 7th will see the Superstock
and first Supersport Race classes, which saw some of the closest racing in 2009.
The second Supersport and Sidecar Races are scheduled for Wednesday 9th
June with Race Week culminating in the blue riband Senior TT on Friday 11th
June.
The
race organisation is currently developing plans for another zero carbon
emissions race on the Isle of Man in 2010 and the slot has been provisionally
scheduled on Wednesday 9th of June following the Supersport and
Superstock TT Races.
Classic
racing motorcycles will make a welcome return to the TT in 2010 with the Suzuki
50th Anniversary Lap of Honour and the TT Classic Parade scheduled for the
morning of Senior Race Day.
Both events will
feature racing machines manufactured before 1998 with capacity for a
total of 200 entries across both events. Entries are invited and will be
reviewed by a committee featuring representatives from ACU Events Limited and
the Department of Tourism and Leisure. Any revenue derived from the Suzuki 50th
Anniversary Lap of Honour and Isle of Man TT Classic Parade will be used to fund
the future development and safety of the TT Races.
Martyn
Quayle, MHK, Minister for Tourism and Leisure, commented:
““We
are operating in a tough financial climate and have therefore decided to
concentrate our resources on the core race programme that is proving so popular
with fans. We are again
delivering a thrilling racing experience, with many fans and media commenting
that the TT Races are now as strong and exciting as they have been in living
memory. We believe that with the return of the classic parades that there is now
something for all motorcycle enthusiasts.”
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Department of Tourism and Leisure representatives to attend
Birmingham to promote Motorsport on the Isle of Man at Carol Nash
NEC Motorcycle and Scooter Show
- Leading
riders to attend the press conference and ‘TT Day’
The
Department of Tourism and Leisure will have its own stand this year at the Carol
Nash NEC Motorcycle and Scooter Show in Birmingham, to promote the TT Races and
other motorcycling events on the Island.
The team
will be in Hall One, alongside the major motorcycle manufacturers, and will be
showing the award winning TT TV coverage from 2009 on a giant video screen. The
stand will also feature Steve Plater’s HM Plant Honda Supersport bike.
The DTL
will be supported by many of the leading riders including John McGuinness, Bruce
Anstey, Ian Hutchinson, Guy Martin, Ian Lougher and Conor Cummins as well as
sidecar favourites Dave Molyneux, Tim Reeves and Ben Birchall. The riders will
be taking part in a press conference on Thursday 26th November, when
many of them will be announcing their plans for the following season. Hon
Martyn Quayle, MHK, Minister for Tourism and Leisure, will also be outlining
plans for TT 2010 including exciting details regarding entertainment at the 2010
TT Festival.
The riders
will also be back at the show for the ever-popular ‘TT day’ on Saturday 5th
December where they will be joined by TT legends Phil McCallen and Mick Grant.
The entertainment is centred on the Blackhorse Main Stage where TV commentator
Steve Parrish will be hosting a chat show and also testing the riders TT
knowledge with the popular quiz, “A question of TT Races.” Fans will also get
the chance to chat with their heroes and pick up signed memorabilia including
the official TT 2010 TT poster.
The Isle of
Man TT Marshals Association will also be manning the stand throughout the show
and will be encouraging people to sign up to join the ‘Orange Army’. They will
be joined by newly appointed official TT travel partner Regency Travel, who will
be advising fans on TT trips and packages and selling hospitality and grandstand
tickets.
Hon Martyn
Quayle, MHK, Minister for Tourism and Leisure, commented:
“We
are delighted to be in such a prominent position in Hall One, alongside many of
the leading industry brands and we will looking to encourage as many people as
possible to come to the Isle of Man in 2010.”
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Here are a few photographs from the 2009 Isle of Man TT Road
Races...
Dave Molyneux & Dan Sayle (2) and Nick Crowe & Mark Cox (9) at the Jurby Road
Circuit:-
Teams start to arrive at The Grandstand prior to TT Practice week:-
Pre TT Classic Racing at The Billown Circuit, Castletown:-
Isle of Man TT Practice gets underway:-
and then the races.....
