THE continuing popularity of the Manx Grand Prix and a change in ACU regulations has led the organisers to seek to extend the racing to an extra day for this year’s meeting at the end of August.
Clerk of the course Phil Taubman has announced that the Manx Grand Prix race programme needs to be extended to four days in order to run seven races, because new ACU rules dictate that the newcomers race can not be run alongside other classes as in the past.
With only two races per day permitted, Mr Taubman has suggested that the 3-lap newcomers race should take place on the evening of Saturday August 27th at 6pm. The idea has been put forward for consultation with the public also invited to comment.
He said, “The restrictions to the race programme would be removed and we would be free to structure an improved race programme for the following week. Also the additional hour is not during the working week there would be less disruption, particularly in Douglas.”
More fans than for many years are coming to the Isle of Man for the racing which has developed in recent years into a festival similar to the TT, particularly in the important area of newcomers with 50 competing in 2010 and possibly more expected for this year.
Mr Taubman explained the theory behind the idea by pointing out that, traditionally, the marshals and officials manning levels have been more than adequate at the end of practice week which would enable the newcomers race to start on time at 5.30pm, followed by a one lap practice session. Furthermore due to deteriorating light conditions at that time of year the race/practice session cannot extend after 8pm.
“This will be consistent with Saturday 20 August, also with roads closing at 1700hrs (granted in 2010) and the earlier closure on 20 August (first practice session) becomes more important with the rescheduled Newcomers race and reduced practice time on 27 August.
“We are therefore engaging in a consultation process with any party we believe may be affected by this additional hour in order to gain feedback. We are consulting the general public, particularly those living on or adjacent to the TT course, the churches, hotels, pubs and businesses on the TT Course, Government Departments and their members, the emergency services and Nobles Hospital, the Chambers of Commerce & Trade, sporting bodies and all local authorities.”
He added, “We hope that you appreciate the requirement and are able to support us in our request and would be grateful if you would let us have your comments by Monday 28 February. If you have any concerns or would like to discuss any aspect of the above please contact me personally on either 490237 (mobile) or 822408 (home). Alternatively you may contact the Manx Motor Cycle Club office by email mgp@manx.net or by telephoning 644649.”
• In the event of postponed racing on Friday 2 September there is the possibility that racing may take place on Saturday 3 September.
