Stars celebrate Isle of Man TT
Monday 08 December 2008
TT
Isle of Man TT stars were joined by World Superbike great Troy Corser and Grand Prix legend Randy Mamola in a celebration of the famous races.
Thousands of fans travelled to the Bike Show at the NEC, Birmingham, on Saturday for TT Day. They were treated to chat shows, quizzes, auctions and a chance to meet their heroes and get memorabilia signed on the Duke stand.
The show kicked off with a chat show on the Blackhorse Stage. hosted by BBC commentator and former racer Steve Parrish. He posed the questions to stars like John McGuinness, Michael Rutter, Ian Lougher, Steve Plater and Tim Reeves.
Among the many revelations, Rutter announced he hoped to be taking part in the 2009 TT and Reeves outlined his plans to build on his debut podium, scored this year.
Parrish also chatted with TT legend and seven-time champion Mick Grant, who reminisced about racing in the Island and picked out Gary Johnson as ‘one to watch’ at the TT in ‘09.
Johnson followed Grant on stage and talked about how he felt he had rebuilt his career by racing in the Isle of Man.
Next up was the ever-popular Question of Bikes quiz game, with American racing legend Mamola skippering McGuinness, Corser and Reeves against Carl Fogarty’s team of Jamie Whitham, Guy Martin and Plater. Rounds included picture board, name anagrams, missing word and guess the disguised rider.
Foggy’s team emerged triumphant, with McGuinness failing to spot an anagram of his own name! In his defence, the quiz organisers had spelt his surname with only one N.
Late arrival Martin took to the stage in the Jester Interactive challenge, only to crash out early on the circuit.
Finally, Parrish heard TTXGP organiser Azhar Hussain outline his plans for the world’s first clean emissions Grand Prix, which will take place on Senior Race day in ‘09. Also on stage were rider Olie Linsdall and Evo Design MD Rick Simpson, who is building a bike to take part in the historic event.
The TT Marshals Association was also well represented at the show, encouraging people to sign up and marshal for the 2009 TT.