As excitement builds for the 2026 Isle of Man TT, we sat down with the editor of Island Racer to talk memories, racing legends, and what fans can look forward to in this year’s edition.
“Why do you love the TT?”
“I actually didn’t love the TT… until I went there!” Growing up in Kent, grand prix and short-circuit racing felt more familiar, while the TT seemed worlds away—something for riders from the north or across the Irish Sea. But everything changed during his first visit in 1996, while working for a weekly motorcycle newspaper. One trip turned into a lifelong passion.
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Most Memorable TT Moment
The editor recalls his first-ever live TT experience vividly: early morning practice at the bottom of Bray Hill. Bleary-eyed, slightly hungover, and suddenly— WAAAAAAAAAAHHHHH! Jim Moodie flew past on the SEGA Crescent Suzuki GSX-R750, sparks shooting off the road as the bike bottomed out. “I was hooked. Speechless for minutes.”
Other unforgettable moments include:
· Riding the course with TT legend Steve Hislop, narrowly avoiding a head-on encounter at The Gooseneck.
· Clinging to the back of a Honda CBR1100XX Super Blackbird piloted by WSB star Aaron Slight—“Terrifying!”
What Excites You Most About Island Racer 2026?
Simply put: great weather, full race laps, and a safe event for everyone.
What First Sparked Your TT Interest?
Despite watching the odd VHS tape or TV highlight, the TT wasn’t a major focus until work forced his hand:
“I was actually trying to take those two weeks off! Instead, I was persuaded to go… and the rest is history.”
Favourite TT Memory
Two special memories centre around the Dunlop brothers.
Joey Dunlop
Nervous to interview the legend, he finally figured out Joey’s secret escape route through a hole in a fence. “You could see the twinkle in his eye when he realised I’d sussed him.”
Robert Dunlop
In 1996, still recovering from injury and unable to race, Robert was found in the bar of the Empress Hotel. A few pints of Guinness turned into six, the shorthand notes dissolved into chaos, and a long heartfelt conversation unfolded—about racing, recovery, family, and passion. “He left for the ferry looking fresh as anything. I was absolutely hammered!”
Most Anticipated Part of TT 2026
The editor praises the quality of modern TV coverage—though nothing compares to experiencing the TT in person. “When you’ve been there once, watching it on TV makes you feel homesick.”
Must-See Feature in This Year’s Island Racer
The deep dive into how much TT racers really earn—hint: not nearly as much as you think. Many race purely for the love of it, spending thousands of their own money.
The TT in a Few Words
Mad. Madder. Maddest.
Best Spot on the TT Course?
With 37.73 miles to choose from, it’s hard to pick just one—but these top the list:
· Bray Hill for unbeatable speed
· Kirk Michael to see riders blast through a village
· The Creg for a classic viewing spot (ideally with a barbecue and a drink!)
The People Make the TT
For the editor, the real magic lies in the people—racers, teams, fans. From world-class champions to back-of-the-pack dreamers who ship their bikes from overseas to ride the TT once in their lives, everyone shares the same spirit and passion.
Favourite Photo in the 2026 Issue
A stunning shot from the Mac McDiarmid archive capturing Carl Fogarty and Steve Hislop in tight formation at Governor’s Bridge during the 1991 Formula 1 TT, both on Honda RVF750s.
Riders to Watch in 2026
Two exciting entrants stand out:
· Gary McCoy – Making his TT debut after missing last year.
· Mitchell Rees – Returning after an impressive 2025 debut, clocking a lap around 127mph.
Ready to Dive In?
Don’t miss your chance to experience the stories, legends, and adrenaline of the TT. Grab your copy of Island Racer 2026 today and get closer to the action!
