Delays to the Steam Packet Company's schedule led to fewer marshals than anticipated being available for the opening session but there were enough for Mr Taubman to start the newcomers on their speed controlled lap.

Under the watchful eyes of travelling marshals, rider liaison officer Nick Jefferies and past and current competitors such as Dave Madsen-Mygdal, Richard 'Milky' Quayle and John Barton, the seventy plus first timers completed their first 37.73 mile course.

Weather conditions were tricky with strong winds blowing in off the Irish Sea but there were no incidents reported during the lap.

Unfortunately the untimed practice session scheduled for the Senior, Junior, SuperTwin and Lightweight classes was not able to go ahead due to the shortage of marshals.

The next practice session is scheduled for Monday 18th at 18.20. Roads close around the course at 18.00hrs.