TT Motorcycle races commence 25th May
12th May, 2013
Once again it's that time of year when the famous Isle of Man TT Races come round.
The TT (or Tourist Trophy to give it its official name) was started in 1907 and was run on the St John's short course, which was 15 miles long. The Snaefell Mountain course as we know it today was added in 1911. The first full mountain course race was won by Oliver Godfrey, with an average speed of 47.63mph. The Isle of Man TT race was part of the FIM Motor Cycle Grand Prix between 1949 and 1976, however the FIM stripped the TT of its official status shortly after the 1976 event.
The TT is unique because it's a time trial event on public roads. Riders set off individually in ten-second intervals, which means they are racing against the clock and not necessarily the rider in front.
This years event runs from 25thg May to 7th June.