terminal velocity : the Isle of Man TT race

Frank Hulbert and Jack Marshall cannot have realised the significance of the moment as they pointed their single-cylinder motorcycles up the dusty track towards Ballacraine at 10 am on the cold, cloudy morning of 28 May 1907. The Isle of Man Tourist Trophy races were born as the two Triumphs spluttered into life to start their 158-mile journey around the 15-mile 1430-yard St John's Course, plotted on the picturesque island.

The Isle of Man Tourist Trophy is the greatest motorcycle road race in the world, the ultimate challenge for rider and machine. It has always called for a commitment far beyond any other racing event, and many have made the ultimate sacrifice in their quest for victory. A story about freedom of choice, the strength of human spirit and the will to win. It's also an examination of what motivates those rare few, this elite band of brothers who risk everything to win.

The  Isle of Man TT Races stand as the last of the great motor-sporting tests in the world today. Remaining largely untouched since 1911, the 37¾ miles of public roads have played host to some of the greatest motorcycle races and riders of all time. From Mike Hailwood’s epic duels with Giacomo Agostini and Phil Read, to the record-breaking rides by Geoff Duke, Mick Grant and Joey Dunlop, the TT simply reverberates with special memories.

The Isle of Man TT, is widely regarded as one of the world’s premier motor-racing events as well as one of the most dangerous. Held on private roads that have been closed off to other traffic by dictate of the government (the Isle of Man takes its motorcycle race very seriously), racers compete in time trials to see who can navigate the courses fastest. The Isle of Man TT involves insanely high speeds in very tight and challenging quarters. These are hardly courses meant for motorcycle racing; they’re more intended for your regular automobile, and as such, the level of skill involved on behalf of the riders is immense.

As well as being the home of road racing, the Isle of Man has much to offer visitors at any time of the year. Despite being fondly referred to as the ‘Rock’ by residents, the Isle of Man is actually approximately the same size as Ibiza and Singapore, though with a lot fewer people. The Isle of Man is home to a wide range of wildlife and this can be enjoyed on land or at sea if you fancy taking a boat tour to check out the basking sharks which frequent the waters around the Island. For more information about attractions and events in the Isle of Man go to visitisleofman.com.