Sunshine, speed and close racing at Pre-TT Classic opener

The opening race of the meeting, the SP-R Singles Classic Race over six laps, saw Hinckley rider Will Loder claim victory with an average speed of 85.459mph. Mike Hose, from Moreton, finished second, while Shelley Pike secured a podium finish in third after a nail-biting battle to the line.

In the 250cc class, Owen Monaghan took the win ahead of Joris Fastenaekels in second and Gary Hutton in third.

Race two, the 1100cc Classic, was contested over seven laps and produced another thrilling finish. Andy Hornby timed his challenge perfectly, making his move on the final lap to storm to victory. Alan Oversby took second place and also recorded the fastest lap of the race at 94.076mph, while Mike Hose celebrated his second podium of the evening in third.

The Geoff Duke Junior Superbike Race followed, and after a difficult few weeks, Port St Mary rider Grant Thomson was determined to deliver on home roads. He led from the start and held on to take victory with a best lap of 99mph. Barry Furber, from Bishop’s Castle, finished second despite his machine having undergone major rebuild work shortly before the race, while Preston’s Leon Donaghy completed the podium in third.

Attention then turned to the sidecars for the M.C. Locksmiths Sidecar Classic Race 1. Among the field were several familiar pairings, along with newcomers Jason Rees and Shayne Perry, who travelled all the way from New Zealand to compete.

The race was won by 2023 lap record holders Kieran Clarke and Andrew Johnson. Dave Molyneux and Dan Sayle finished second, while Greg Lambert and Andrew Haynes rounded out the podium places in third.

Roads around the Billown Course close again at 1pm today for a further six races, with another exciting afternoon of action expected.

Roads are due to reopen no later than 6pm, with the prize presentation taking place in Castletown Square from 7:30pm.

Race 1: Will Loder, Mike Hose and Shelley Pike

Race 2: Andy Hornby, Alan Oversby and Mike Hose

Race 3: Grant Thomson, Barry Furber and Leon Donaghy

Sidecar: Kieran Clarke and Andrew Johnson, Dave Molyneux and Dan Sayle and Greg Lambert and Andrew Haynes