MV Wrote:My story is one of an experienced and long serving spectator
of road racing (thats circuit and closed roads) stretching
back to 1958.The same applies to my on the road bike riding
having started at the age of 16 (now 65!)

The people that I hold personally responsible for my "wasted life"
are, in no particular order, (actually, IN order!)
Bob McIntyre, Graham Walker and Mike Hailwood.
They got me hooked on racing, in particular the wonderful T.T.
My first race as a spectator, was at Thruxton for the 500 miler
in 1958
I had to wait from 1958 until 1967 until I made it to the
wonderful Isle of Man and it was all "downhill from there!"
What a year to start?! 1967. Hailwood and Agostini and more.

Since then, I havent missed many TTs and have seen so many
greats. The list is endless and I wouldnt know where to start!
This is why I carry so much knowledge and experience.

I have also spectated all around the uk.

In 1981, I went completely mad and had a brief spell racing
at club level ("It cant be that dificult!")
This involved mostly the North Gloucester club and on the
ex airfield circuits like Little Rissington.
My choice of bike was a Suzuki X7 250cc two stroke.
Being on the "other side of the fence" was something I dont
regret in spite of how it ended.
In May 1981, I raced at Cadwell Park and overdid it.
I fell off at the gooseneck and knocked myself about a bit.
I consider myself very lucky to have survived and had the
experience.
Since then, I have watched with a different head on.
I would never have raced around the Island cos I dont and
never did have the bottle.
I take my hat off to them all, from our own Cargo, Hilary
and Gail Musson,Fitz and Nick Jeffries to John McGuiness
and Shan Harris with hndreds in between.
I cant quite say "been there,seen it,done it"
But I have had a good stab.
As a result,I have so many wondeful friends in here.

Phew, that was better off my chest!

Hey MV, that means we were both doing the North Glos at the same time. I was on a Laverda Montjuic in the 500 Proddy class, then a 498 Honda in the Fourstrokes. Small world!

Sorry, got a bit off-topic there. What I wanted to say was as a short circuit rider who never quite had the commitment to do the Manx or TT, I'm in awe at the determination shown by anyone who has competed in the Island.