Honda has been announced as the new motorcycle partner for the 2016 Isle of Man TT races. As per the new deal, the Japanese two-wheeler maker will supply a fleet of CBR1000RR Fireblades for the TT traveling marshals throughout qualifying and race events.
Honda’s association with the Isle of Man TT Races can be traced back to 1954 when founder Soichiro Honda made his famous TT Races declaration ‘to participate in the TT races’ and to ‘pour in all of my energy and creative powers to win.’ The company made its first appearance in the 1959 TT Races, winning its first race in 1962.
Honda has the most race wins by a manufacturer with over 250 victories, the most recent of which was the closing race of the 2016 Isle of Man TT Races, the PokerStars Senior TT, when John McGuinness clinched his 23rd TT race win, breaking the outright lap record in the process.
Traveling Marshals were first used in the 1935 TT Races. The marshals are positioned around the 37¾ mile course and are able to provide a rapid response to any incidents. All of the bikes carry medical equipment that can assist in managing a casualty. They also carry out duties such as course inspection, observe machines on the course for visible faults and review and report any course incidents.
The Traveling Marshals have previous race experience of the Mountain Course, having competed in either the TT or the Manx Grand Prix. The current team has eight Manx Grand Prix wins and a TT podium between them and all of them are first aid trained to a high level and play a vital role in the Isle of Man TT races safety program, which relies on fast responses.
Nick Campolucci, Head of Motorcycles at Honda commented: “Honda’s Racing history is inextricably linked with the Isle of Man TT Races and we are delighted to extend and increase our partnership with the TT Races and the Isle of Man. Our success around one of the world’s most demanding circuits continues with the current generation CBR1000RR Fireblade and it’s fitting that the bikes help the traveling marshals in their essential work, as well as taking a starring role in the racing.”
David Cretney, Isle of Man Government representative for Tourism and Motorsport, commented: “There is a great bond between Honda and the TT Races, the Isle of Man and its people. It is a great reflection on the current strength of the TT that a company as prestigious as Honda has come on board as an official partner and its support is a vital part of delivering the TT experience and running the races.”
