In his address at the club’s annual general meeting, prior to the MMCC dinner at the Best Western Palace Hotel, he firstly asked for one minute’s silence in respect of the ex-riders, marshals and other individuals associated with the Manx Grand Prix who had passed away over the last 12 months.

He admitted that the 90th anniversary MGP had certainly been different, running effectively two separate events, but commented: ‘Despite some of the doom and gloom predictions the whole event [Classic TT and Manx Grand Prix] generally went very well.

‘Most importantly, from the MGP standpoint, vast hoards did not disappear after the Classic TT had finished.

‘As far as the 90th anniversary Manx Grand Prix itself, it is very pleasing to be able to report that, despite certain predictions, the MGP entry stood up extremely well. We were especially delighted that the newcomer entry increased yet again.

‘Most importantly, the whole event was relatively safe. It was great to note that the usual Manx spirit was alive and well in the paddock - despite some of the pressures on the competitors.

‘It was also a joy to have so many ex-winners attend at their own expense and help us celebrate the 90th. Having 71 participate in the past winners’ parade, and, all on appropriate machinery, was extra special. Even more special was a celebratory reception attended by approximately 90 past winners. The buzz during that evening was amazing and I felt privileged to attend.

‘All of our competitors are to be congratulated for taking on the challenge of the Mountain Course and providing us with such excellent racing. Although I hesitate to pick out any one rider, it was good to see a local, Callum Collister, establishing new lap and race records in the Newcomers’ B race.

‘The big disappointment was the cancellation of the Senior race because of poor weather, which was a disaster for all concerned.’


Looking to the 2014 event, Harvey said theclub would continue to develop its relationship with the Department of Economic Development. ‘It is recognised that we must have greater flexibility to avoid race cancellations and we were delighted that the department agreed to us running the Newcomers race on the Bank Holiday Monday.

‘By so doing we have greatly increased the options available to us in the event of bad weather or other impacts on the race programme. There must also be the flexibility to run the Senior and/or other delayed races on the final Saturday of the fortnight. All involved must be prepared for this eventuality – including our competitors.’

He also revealed that, following discussions between the club and DED, the department, in conjunction with other departments of government, is looking to provide more practice time for both the Manx GP and Classic TT.

‘2014 is looking good. The indications are that the number of newcomers will increase yet again. The two Hailwood Foundation weekends for prospective newcomers are so well supported that consideration is being given to organising a third weekend. We are also aware that a number of potential newcomers have already been over independently to start learning the course.’

Harvey Garton concluded by thanking wholeheartedly the many departments, organisations, officials, sponsors, medical services, local constabulary, IoM Fire and Rescue, volunteers and other individuals for helping with the event, in his words: ‘The many people and organisations that are fundamental to the successful running of races on the Mountain Course.’

He made special mention of the MGP Supporters Club, who he said do some amazing work each and every year. ‘In 2013 the MGP Supporters Club made a donation of £45,000 towards the cost of the rescue helicopters which provide such vital medical support to our races.’

He commented on the James May television programme of the Meccano sidecar, shown recently, which he said was good advertising for both the Isle of Man and the Manx Grand Prix, but added: ‘We do need to generate much higher levels of publicity and I would encourage you to provide ideas for future publicity to the club office at the rear of the Grandstand.

‘Let nobody be in any doubt that the Manx cannot continue without a demonstrably greater number of visitors coming and spending more money. Although the event enables so many to take up the challenge of competing on the Mountain Course and continues to be a feeder for future TTs, it has also to provide a positive financial benefit to government. The Manx Grand Prix is now not simply a question of providing races for a growing number of competitors.

‘The challenge for all supporters of the Manx, wherever they may be, is to spread the passion and pass on the message of the quality and atmosphere of our races, and to encourage many more people to come to the island for the Manx Grand Prix.



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