Thanks from me!
40 years ago I contested the 1978 Isle of Man TT on a works-built TTF1 (NCR) Ducati, as a satellite member of the Sports Motorcycles team, the star rider in which, Mike Hailwood, famously won the F1 TT. At the 2018 IFoS, I was reunited with my old mount thanks to the generosity of owner Murray Kahler, who, despite being away holidaying in Spain, arranged for the Ducati to be sent to Sydney for me. It certainly was a nostalgic trip, firing up the old girl again in the paddock and watching scores of people come running to hear the music from the open megaphones. Out on the track, as the modern-day stars rocketed off into the distance in the GP Legends Clashes, I was able to cruise around at my own pace, mindful of the rarity and value of the machine – and the age of the tyres! A total blast from the past. On Sunday I was also able to sample the famous chain-drive Yamaha XS1100 which the late Greg Pretty took to three wins from three starts in 1981 Superbike competition, and which has recently been completely restored by Mal Pitman. In the final clash I was able to experience the fabulous carbon-fibre chassis “Plastic fantastic” GS1000 Suzuki raced by the late Robert Holden. Thanks to the owners of these bikes, John Testore and Graeme “Spyda” Staples respectively.