I've read all the remarks under the "Aftermath" heading, with great interest. To begin with please understand that members of the riders forum watch listen evaluate and expound passionately about the worlds greatest races.(And I still believe that remark is correct).
Anyway let me make it completely clear that at the last two meetings every riding member of the forum expressed doubts about finishing with the 400/125 event.
However we need to become aware of the growing Manx population,and the effect that is having on the way the races are organised.The Manx Government is totally committed to running the races, as the new contract with the MMCC proves.Don't forget that if the races were being created today in the 21st century, they would not stand a prayer of getting off the ground. We must take stock and realise how lucky we are to: (a) still have the races and (b) have a committed group behind the scenes doing their damndest to run races that the spectators, riders and manufacturers want, and all policed and marshalled efficiently and effectively.
Hey don't think you have the No1 bottom licker here, 'cos I can assure you that if you eaves dropped the meetings you would not think that.
It's just a little difficult to tell you the contents of a confidential meeting, but I just want you to know that all the riders on the forum totally understand the need for a varied TT programme, and are indeed always concerned about the way the races are evolving.
From a personal note, disappointed as I am at losing the 400 event it cannot be denied that despite a reasonable entry this year,spares are running out, and even though this class (as "Ago Murphy" tells me)is well supported in mainland racing, everyone knew that its days were numbered at the TT.Also I think the 125's failed to get together and do enough to hold their end up.
With the end of morning practices, it will be increasingly difficult to manage "split practices" in the future, as time is at a premium.
So......anyone got any better ideas, with a view to classes for the future and to give everyone a more varied programme?
Lots more to talk about, some other time perhaps.
It might seem somewhat churlish to suggest that I hope everyone enjoyed it, in the light of yet more and tragic accidents, both on and off the track, but it seems the TT from a spectator point of view was a great success.
Talking to the MGP office today it appears that the Manx entry is up, with an excellent newcomer entry. All very encouraging.