Manx sidecars clock 50 years

Saturday will see the solos head off  from the Douglas TT Grandstand base on a loop round the sourthern part of the island to take in 40 sections while on Sunday it will be to the north and another 38 hazards.

 

One of the beauties of the Manx is the incredible variety of sections from streams to sand and slate quarries to seaside rocky outcrops and then moorland climbs.  

 

Dan Thorpe won his second Manx last year and there's every chance that the traditional trials specialist will make it three this time round.

 

There's plenty of opposition and Barry Kinley must be the best bet for what would be a fantastically well received local win. Barry has been very close several times. 

 

Juan Knight is another rider who is popular whatever the result such is his standing in the trials world.

 

But the Manx isn't just about the stars it has always been a Clubmans favourite and a look down the entry list sees scores of centre riders, many of whom return year after year to simply enjoy a fantastic trial and to ride round with their mates - followed by a beer or three at night. What could be better. 

 

2012 sees the Sidecars celebrate their Golden Jubilee and as ever the Manx sees the biggest sidecar entry by far of the year.

 

A mammoth sidecar route will take in no fewer than 99 sections over the two days and the barrow boys will certainly know they have been in a trial.

 

The two Robins, Luscombe and Morewood once again lock horns  with their respective ballast and both will plan on adding to their respective total of  Manx Swords.. Two local crews, Adrian/Aaron Smith and Gary Flowers/ Antony Smith will be looking to keep the swords on home turf.

 

Local legend Derry Kissack has written a book to celebrate the 50 years of chairs at the Manx and it is well worth  the money, especially if you have taken part or ever witnessed the fun and games that have always been part and parcel of the three wheelers in the island.

 

Derry will even start the trial with his recently re-fettled BSA Gold Star to add a bit of history to the event.

 

There will be no hanging around on the Sunday either because after the trial there is a celebration party planned  where former competitors will join the moderrn warriors armed with plenty of tales of former Manx campaigns.