Jim

>> Dont u think ure getting a bit ahead of yourself.

No.

>> Davy Morgan,Dan Stewart,Martin Finnegan,Ray Porter and Guy Martin are a long way from winning TT's.

I don't disagree, but the question was where is the opposition for Ian Lougher coming from. It didn't say where for and which meetings. If it is only the TT, then perhaps the list wouldn't be so long, but Martin Finnegan, Davy Morgan and Guy Martin have all beaten Ian at various places in the past if not this year.

>>The latter 2 seem the most promising but who even knows if Martin will race the TT.

I don't but like I said the question wasn't about the TT. I am trying to find out more about Guy Martin at the moment, so perhaps I could answer that question sometime soon.

>>I reckon Davy Morgan must be at least 28,he's been racing a fair while and he gets his best results on the short circuits,on the roads in ireland he's a long way behind the winner.

I disagree. This year his road performances have been very good, and remember he is only around the same age Ian Lougher was when he won his first TT... in 1990. Remember that is what the question was about.

>>As for Ray Porter,hes only beating novices,its a big step up to racing with Archibald on the roads.

I agree. He has a big test in front of him next year and beyond, and perhaps the 'hysteria' might be a bit over the top so far. However he has proved he can learn circuits quickly, and he has made big progress in a short time.

>>Finnegan looks the best prospect,although he hasn't went as well as one of thought after last years UGP perormances.

Martin will surely be the best we have had for some time, and I know I'm biased, but I firmly belive it. To say he hasn't rode as well since last years Ulster might not be quite true. His TT performances where in my mind excellent (119mph from a standing start in the Senior etc) and his recent rides at Walderstown, Skerries and more importantly Kells have been very good.

I must say I am impressed that you noticed Martin at last years Ulster, because many didn't.

Don't forget the others I mentioned some of whom have TT wins to their name already. Ian is a great rider, a hero of mine, and a top bloke, but he is 38 and he can't go on forever. If you only peak at 38 then the likes of Martin who isn't 38 for another 17 years, should be around to entertain us for many years.

Paul