The First Race Day!

Saturday August 26, was the first race day.  It started in the morning with the Senior Classic TT Race.

Here is what the course looks like:

We were watching at Cronk y Voddy (#11), which allows for a fabulous view of the racers speeding up the hill at full throttle, running at  about 160 miles per hour.

Take a look at #2 Jamie Coward and 15 time TT winner #3 Michael Dunlop charge up the hill!

One of my favourite competitors is Maria Costello, a 20 year veteran racer, who is a 'Member of the British Empire', and well-known racer...she was running in third place for most of this race, but, very close to the end, she was passed and came in 4th.  Great job Maria!

After 152 miles and 4 laps, the winner was
 Australian champion and past British Superbike champion, Josh Brookes

After a lunch break, (no, you really don't want to see my chicken sandwich), we watched the Lightweight Classic TT.

Here are the first 2 off the starting gate, #1 Ian Lougher and winner,
setting a new lap record of 120 mph for a 250cc motorcycle,  #2 'Kiwi' Bruce Anstey

Hot on Bruce's heels is 15 times TT winner Irishman superstar, Michael Dunlop

Here is the winner, Bruce Anstey, on his final victory lap!

At the end of our day enjoying the high speed chases down the road, we headed to Port Erin for supper at The Station

A very cheesy lasagne

Fish & Chips

Cheesecake

Sticky Toffee pudding

A visit with the animals tomorrow

Party in the Paddock

The 3 day 'Festival of Motorcycling' always starts off with a themed party in the paddock.  This year was a tribute to the 50's.  Many of the racers, and their families dressed the part and mingled with the crowds.  Two of the 'super stars', John McGuinness and Bruce Anstey, strutted their stuff and posed for the budding photographers.

They never fail to please the fans, so when our friend David asked for a photo, they very kindly obliged.

There was lots to see and do including a antique car show....

....and motorcycle displays.  This Norton was the the first winner of the TT race back in 1907!

Note the extra belt near the rear wheel - always come prepared!

Racer Peter Hickman and his girlfriend blended right in!

.....while William Dunlop discussed racing strategy with a friend

Back at the cottage, David, Christine, Ken and our friend Fred from Manchester, gathered over drinks to finish off the day

Off to the races tomorrow.....