So how do we gauge if the TT is a success or not? By lap speeds, by the weather, by how many people are wandering aimlessly along the Prom, by how many gallons of grog are sold at the Bushey's tent? Or do we judge it by the sheer skill of the riders going past on the particular part of the course we are watching, or the sheer thrill of the closeness to the action and the sound, even the rush of air that hits you in the face at some points. The statisticians will tell you how many came over this year compared to blah blah blah but the TT doesn't take, it gives something to everyone who has been lucky enough to see it, and if there are more or less worn out old acts performing in the music halls and more or less exhibitionist on the front, it doesn’t detract from the TT because the TT is about the best motorcycle road racing on the best course in the world. OK it rains some years and the bikes change over the years but it is still something unique and should not be measured by the ‘atmosphere’ in Douglas. The TV coverage, which I am told is very good, may be just the advertising the Island needs so make sure you are booked in early for next year.