Over the Easter Weekend, one of the true legends of the Isle of Man TT celebrates a milestone birthday.
Geoff Duke OBE turns 90 on March 29, and will be celebrating at home in the Isle of Man with his family.
Geoff made his Mountain course debut at the Manx Grand Prix in 1948, and took his first TT victory, the Clubmans Senior, the following year. He took his tally of victories to six by 1955, including three Senior TT wins, and ended his TT career in 1959.
During an illustrious career, Geoff scored six World Championships, including winning both the 350cc and 500cc titles in the same year, 1951, won 33 of the 89 Grand Prix races he started, was named Sportsman of the Year, was awarded the Segrave Trophy and was appointed OBE for services to the sport.
Most notably he raced for Norton and Gilera, although he also did a four-wheel stint with Aston Martin, is also credited with inventing the single-piece leathers, ran his own Gilera team and is today believed to be the oldest living TT winner.
In a birthday message to fans, Geoff said:
“As I celebrate my 90th birthday on Good Friday, I just wanted to thank you all for your kind messages, cards and gifts. It is always a pleasure to receive a letter from a fan and wonderful to know there are so many of you out there who remember fondly my racing days.”
“Unfortunately, I am no longer able to reply to all your kind messages and requests for autographs, but I wanted to let you know how much your letters mean to me. I remain a keen follower of our sport, and have always enjoyed meeting you and reminiscing about the old days at events all over the world.”
“Although I can’t make it to as many meetings as I have in the past, I am looking forward to the 2013 season, especially the Isle of Man TT, which, as many of you know, takes place not far from my home.”
“As I mark my 90th birthday with my family, I will be recalling my career and remembering all the fans who played such a large part in it. Thank you all.”
Watch a short video featuring highlights from Geoff’s career
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