THE Manx Grand Prix may have ended but it's not the end of the 2010 Manx Grand Prix Festival as the Classic Two Day trial takes place today (Saturday) and tomorrow.
The meeting is part of the newly branded Manx Grand Prix festival that also includes the Manx Grand Prix, the Two Day Trial and the Vintage Motorcycle Club events.
The event has been described, by riders and spectators alike, as the best trial of its type in Europe. The course takes in some of the most spectacular scenery in the Isle of Man.
This year there's a bumper entry of more than 200 riders for the 14th Annual Manx Classic Weekend Trial.
Competitors have travelled from as far away as Australia, the USA, South Africa, Italy, France and Germany and famous names include former TT winner Mick Grant, Grand Prix winner Buddy Yeardsley and three times Classic Trial winner John Maxfield.
Other former winners include Roy 'Ago' Wilson, Dave Thorpe, Peter Salt and Kevin Chapman but the undoubted favourite is local star Juan Knight, riding a Triumph Cub, who now qualifies for the Premier Award as he is over 35.
The leading 40 or so riders away each day will be on relatively modern twinshock machines, but the remainder of the 207 entered are on classic bikes.
The classic bikes are an enthusiast's dream with BSAs, Ariels, Triumphs, Greeves and Matchless machines making an appearance.
Many of them have been totally restored to their former glory and in many cases are more competitive now than they were in their heyday.
The 'Premier' sections are for those riders who like a challenge and the Clubman sections for those who just want an enjoyable weeekend's sport.
With approximately 40 miles each day, today's activity takes place in the south of the Island, going close to the magnificent coastal scenery at Cronk ny Arrey Laa.
It started at the St John's car park close to Tynwald Hill, the site of the Island's ancient parliament, with the first competitor leaving at around 8.30am.
It is expected to finish at around 3pm at Douglas Rugby Club.
Tomorrow's route explores the famous mountain region at Snaefell.
Most of the sections are spectator-friendly with many parts easily accessible. The riders will start from the famous TT Grandstand on Glencrutchery Road, with riders setting off down pit lane from around 8am.
