For the last few years, an influx of high quality newcomers have been pitting their wits against the
rigours
of the Mountain Course and rider recruitment has again been high on the agenda since last year’s event. Significantly, more and more riders are approaching the
organisers
about riding in the greatest motorcycle race in the world and this year once more sees some great names making their debut.
Since 2004, no less than five riders have broken the 120mph barrier on their debut and many have not only won silver and bronze replicas but also finished comfortably inside the top 20.
The last three recipients of the Newcomers Trophy have been Guy Martin, Cameron Donald and Conor Cummins, which speak for itself. Throw in the likes of Les Shand, Mark Miller, Jeremy Toye, Mark Buckley, Tim Poole, Michael Weynand and William Dunlop and there’s absolutely no doubt that rider recruitment has been an unqualified success.
Oh yes, lets not forget former world sidecar champion Klaus Klaffenbock!