Tom, I was seriously considering packing it in after this year. I know most of the riders appreciate what we do but the negative remarks tend to come from the high profile people (no disrespect).
But you sometimes wonder why you do it.
Marshalling at the TT will never be the same as short circuits..EVER.. because of the nature of the beast, it is just a totally different animal.
In the end I couldn't resist and went on the IMC course last week, so I'll probably be back next year.
I think one of the main problems is recruiting new (and younger) marshals. It needs to be constantly drummed into people that more marshals are always needed and it is down to the riders just as much to try and encourage everyone they meet to sign up.
What is your opinion on the early morning practices being phased out?