New rider liaison officer for TT
Friday 16 November 2007
TT
TT veteran John Barton has joined the Isle of Man Government’s Department of Tourism and Leisure as a Rider Liaison Officer.
He will work alongside TT winner Richard ‘Milky’ Quayle as part of the DTL’s TT team.
John’s job will be to act as a liaison between teams, riders, race officials and promoters. The liaison officers also work closely with TT newcomers, helping them to understand the course and race conditions.
In addition, John, 38, will assist in promoting the TT at relevant events around the world, including PR work.
DTL TT and Motorsport Development Manager Paul Phillips said:
‘We are delighted to have someone of John’s stature and reputation as a liaison officer.’
‘John’s a well respected figure in the paddock and I’m sure that riders and teams are going to welcome his appointment.’
John made his TT debut in the 1989 125cc race. During his Isle of Man racing career he scored two podium finishes – second in 1997 Singles TT and third in 2000 Singles TT.
He also achieved seven top-eight finishes and 20 top-20 finishes. He set his fastest TT lap – 122.961mph – in the 2005 Senior Race. He finished a credible 11th place in last year’s Superbike TT Race.
John, a former British Superbike competitor, and frequent top-10 finisher, is originally from Rochester, Kent, but now lives in Crosby, where he works as a sports physiotherapist.
He said:
‘As an honorary Manxman, I’m delighted to get the chance to put something back into the TT.’
‘I’m really looking forward to working alongside the rest of the team and contributing to the continued success of this great event.’