NOHANDS HAILWOOD

The interesting article by Alan Cathcart on the EMC, which mentioned the great Mike Hailwood finishing fifth in the 1962 125cc world championship, brought back a nice memory. In the 1962 TT, Hailwood was teamed with Paddy Driver on the EMC racers; both broke down and, as was common then, they were given lifts back to the pits by travelling marshals. These guys knew the course inside out, and being ex-racers, didn’t hang about.

From my vantage point at Kepple Gate, it was noticeable that Paddy clung on to the marshal and seemed distinctly nervous. By contrast Mike was totally relaxed, no holding on for him. He could have been on his way to the shops and this, for me, just demonstrated again his absolute fearlessness. I guess he needed that when a few years later he rode the Honda 500/4!

What a man; still-missed.

A splendid memory, Arthur. Thanks for sharing it. We found a suitable photo for you; here’s Hailwood racing against Derek Minter