I'm a relative newcomer to some of the great stories on here so far, though like most of you it is my first experience that comes to mind. My first T.T was with some mates in 2009 and I'll never forget seeing the bikes on closed roads for the first time. We arrived on Weds of practice week, got the tents pitched at Glenlough just in time for the evening practice session. We perched ourselves on the grass bank at the end of the straight that comes up from Union Mills. I couldn't believe what I was seeing as the bikes flew by us about 18 inches away as they tipped into the fast right hander after us! I don't think I could speak for about ten minutes! Have returned every year since and always try to get to a fast section of the course for the first practice/race of my trip just to feel that buzz again. It really is unbelievable how fast these lads n lasses can go round that piece of road! What I love about the T.T, and road racing in general is how accessible all of the riders are. Like all of you, I've had a chance to meet many of the heroes of bike racing, past and present, and can't remember meeting anyone who didn't come across as a humble, genuine person.

Racing highlights are many in the past few years for me, though a few stand out. Michael Dunlop winning his first T.T in 2009 in the second supersport race was one. I know he can be a bit of a marmite character, but back then, everyone seemed generally chuffed that a Dunlop was back on the top step at the T.T. I think it was 2013 when Bruce Anstey and Cameron Donald had an epic duel in another supersport race, separated by only fractions of a second through the four laps before Anstey claimed the closest of wins. And also the Senior from two years ago! I really think we will be speaking of that many years from now. Harrison and Hickman produced what we all go to the T.T for. In near perfect conditions they went toe to toe for 6 laps, both having to go for it on the only flying lap of the race, the record was always going to be smashed in that scenario. Epic! Roll on 2021!