Island games
The 30th Manx Classic hillclimb continues a local tradition that dates back to the first Gordon Bennett trials in 1904
This three-day event, from April 26-28, consists of one sprint and two hillclimbs on closed public roads, attracting a wide array of vintage and classic cars to the island. Jaguars, Frazer Nashes and Bentleys, the GN Spider, modern sports cars and Edwardian entries have starred in the past – and more than 100 entries are expected. Viewing is free of charge, but be aware that many roads and pavements will be closed off.
The event starts with The Sloc sprint on Thursday 26, in the south of the island, with spectacular views the full length of the track, then moves onto Creg Willey’s hill (part of the TT course) on Friday.
Friday also heralds a spectacular finale as drivers tackle Lhergy Frissell – another section of TT course and the longest hillclimb in Britain.
These roads also formed part of the Gordon Bennett Trials route in 1904 and the following year’s RAC TT, so the Classic maintains strong links with the island’s rich, proud motor sport heritage.
The TT Grandstand serves as one of many points to view the trials, but you can also volunteer with the Manx Motor Racing Club and contribute to an organisation that once had the late John Surtees as patron. Find out more at www.manxmotorracing.com.
HOW TO GET THERE
Packages from ferry operator the IoM Steam Packet Company are available with double/twin rooms (from £94 for two nights) and foot passenger crossings from Liverpool or Heysham, with an extra £89 charge for a car or low van.
ALSO GOING ON
The Isle of Man Motor Museum holds a collection of more than 400 exhibits spanning 100-plus years of motoring history, including 200 motorcycles, at former RAF station Jurby on the north side of the island. Admission is £12.50.
DON’T MISS
Marshals were brought in from all over the UK for the 2017 Manx Classic. You could volunteer for the 2018 running, though you’ll need to be present for the Tuesday – an extra night’s B&B might be useful.
COMING ATTRACTIONS
INTERNATIONAL
Apr 7-8 –FIA Formula 2, Sakhir, Bahrain The most promising young single-seater drivers face off as the Formula 2 grid lines up in Bahrain. Lando Norris will make his full-time debut, as will GP3 champion George Russell.
INTERNATIONAL
Apr 15 – World Rallycross Championship, Barcelona About 20 drivers will tear around Circuit de Catalunya for the opening WRX round, as Johan Kristoffersson prepares for his title defence against the likes of double champion Petter Solberg (in the new Volkswagen Polo GTI).
INTERNATIONAL
Apr 15– Long Beach Indy Long Beach hosts its 44th GP and its 35th consecutive Champ Car/Indycar race. There have been six winners since 2012 on the 1.968-mile palm tree-fringed circuit.
IN THE UK
Apr 22 – Rally Tendring and Clacton, Clacton-on-Sea The first rally in England on public roads, under the new Closed Road Motor Sport legislation, will take place on the Tendring Peninsula over 45 miles. More than 100 cars are entered.
INTERNATIONAL
Apr 20-22 – Hockenheim Historic, Germany This weekend celebrates the life of Jim Clark and commemorates his passing at the circuit. The event marks the 50th anniversary of Clark’s death and also recognises Lotus’s heritage.
INTERNATIONAL
Apr 28-29 – WTCR, Hungaroring, Hungary The first World Touring Car Cup (WTCR) hits Budapest for its second round. Drivers such as Yvan Muller, Rob Huff, Gabriele Tarquini and 2017 WTRCC champ Thed Björk are confirmed.
APR 05 WRC France
APR 07 INDYCAR Phoenix
APR 08 F1 Bahrain
APR 14 FORMULA E Rome
APR 15 F1 China
APR 15 NASCAR Bristol, Tennessee
APR 28 FORMULA E Paris