Good post Numptydad, I remember Fred Neville losing his life around Appledene in the 1961 Junior. He was leading the race in terrible conditions. Did you know that his death was the reason why the "no fairing" rule was revoked? Yes, for 1962 fairings were allowed at the Manx for the first time. Previously it had been deemed that fairings were too dangerous for lesser experienced riders, but in fact Neville's crash was put down to exposure in bitterly cold and wet conditions.

I liked your notes on viewing art various points on the course.
I have a spot out near Ramsey where I watch with no one else around, and if the wind is in the right direction, you can hear the riders coming along Sulby Straight, and then when you hear them coming along from Kerroo Moar, it sends a spine chilling tingle of excitement through you, especially when you hear the engine note changing when the bikes hit the bumps.
I too have enjoyed listening to the live commentary with the timing App. Brilliant!
My withdrawal symptoms aren't too bad, because I'll be riding in the Classic TT! Can't wait for August!!