TTXGP riders confirmed
Wednesday 03 June 2009
TT
Young racing stars Olie Linsdell and Dan Kneen, who have been flying in practice for the 2009 Isle of Man TT, have been confirmed as riders in the first ever TTXGP.
The line-up for the inaugural zero-carbon eGrandPrix, which takes place around the Mountain circuit on June 12, has been officially unveiled by the organisers.
It features 20 riders and a list of specially-prepared prototype machines. While teams entering the TTXGP have been established for months, the closing dates for riders was extended to May 31, 2009, to ensure all teams could field riders fully approved by the Auto-Cycle Union.
Alongside Linsdell, a winner at the North West 200, and Kneen, who made history in 2008 when he became the first person to win three Manx Grand Prix races in a week, there are several more well-known names.
They include Tom Montano, who has previously raced the fastest MV Agusta in the history of the Isle of Man TT races, Paul Owen, one of the stars of the PlayStation2 game TT Superbikes Real Road Racing Championship and TT veteran John Crellin.
Manx resident Crellin, a racer and adventurer, will compete for the India-based TORK team.
In addition to being a TT competitor since 1984, Crellin is a dedicated climber, having recently returned from this third attempt to scale Mount Everest. He has already successfully ascended the world's other six highest peaks - Elbrus in 2000, Kilimanjaro in 2001, McKinley in 2001, Vinson Massif in 2002, Aconcagua in 1998, 2008 and 2009, Carstensz Pyramid in 2006 and Kosciuszko, also in 2006.
Crellin said he is looking forward to the challenge of the TTXGP.
He explained:
‘I love the challenge of climbing, but the thrill of motorcycle racing is a little closer to my heart in terms of an adrenaline rush. The TTXGP can add an exciting new dimension and a fresh challenge to the world of motorsport, which can only enhance its reputation and help reach out to a wider and more diverse audience.’
He added:
‘I’m highly motivated by the TTXGP challenge and proud to be one of the first people to be involved in the world’s first zero-carbon eGrandPrix, which is extra special as it’s happening on my home patch, right here on the Isle of Man.’
‘I’m also delighted to be part of such an historic event, which is the beginnings of securing a future for motoring and motorsport, and one that bridges the gap between innovation and the mainstream uptake of environmentally friendly vehicles.’
TTXGP Operations Director Sadie Homer said:
‘The quality of riders we have involved in the TTXGP is of a very high calibre. We have worked hard to ensure all teams have the riders that can make the TTXGP exciting and safe.’
‘One thing’s for sure, from our line up of riders, it’s clear to see that this is going to be one seriously competitive race.’
Isle of Man Tourism and Leisure Minister Martyn Quayle welcomed the announcement of riders for TTXGP.
He said:
‘I feel sure that everyone on the Isle of Man will give these pioneering teams and riders a warm welcome as they start their ground-breaking racing around the famous TT mountain course.’
‘This high quality field of experienced riders will be hugely beneficial to the teams as they attempt their challenging task.’
The full list of riders can be downloaded from the TTXGP page.