Page 129 - Paddock Life Issue 13 ADRENALINE

From 1989 the Isle of Man Department of Tourism redeveloped the race as The Isle of Man TT Festival - giving it a carnival atmosphere with stunt riders and side shows and entertainment for all and in 2013 bringing The Classics to the show.
The most famous rider and overall race winner was the legend that was Joey Dunlop who won the Tourist Trophy 26 times followed by John McGuiness at 23 wins. Other Hall of Fame riders include the recently departed Sir John Surtees who won here 6 times, Mike Hailwood, another personal favourite of mine as I grew up with stories about him from an uncle, and I coincidently live close to where he hailed (pardon the unintentional pun) from, Great Milton Oxfordshire so I now drive the local lanes he rode all those years ago and Mike won the TT 14 times. Another Dunlop, Michael won here 15 times. The Dunlop name will always be associated with the Isle of Man TT, with Michael Dunlop holding the lap record of 16 minutes 53.929 seconds-133.962 MPH and Joey holding the record of most wins at 26 as mentioned.
TT racing captures the imagination in a way no other race can and its sheer spectacle and uniqueness ensures thousands of fans flock to the island every May and June for their annual adrenaline fix.
The Isle of Man TT is the only race that attracts people in great numbers for an entire period of two weeks where fans can revel in the islands special mix of incredible racing and world class entertainment - and all set amongst the beautiful scenery of the Isle of Man as a backdrop for the greatest bike show on earth.
129