Manx Grand Prix facts for kids

Quick facts for kids
Manx Grand Prix

Venue	Snaefell Mountain Course
First race	1923
Previous names	Manx Amateur Road Races
Most wins (rider)	Bob Heath (11)

The Manx Grand Prix is a famous motorcycle race. It takes place every year on the Isle of Man. The races are held on the challenging Mountain Circuit. This usually happens in late August and early September. In 2023, the event celebrated its 100th anniversary!

People often call it the MGP or just Manx. It's seen as a great learning experience for amateur riders. Many riders hope to compete in the more famous Isle of Man TT races later. Unlike the TT, the Manx Grand Prix does not include sidecar races. Since 2013, a 'Classic TT' race has been added. This allows older, historic racing motorcycles to compete. Even professional riders can join these classic races now.

The event usually has six races. Each race involves three or four laps of the 60.70 km (37.72 mi) circuit. The races start at the TT Grandstand in Douglas. The types of races change a bit each year. For 2024, there are Lightweight, Classic, Junior, Senior, and Classic Superbike races.

History of the Manx Grand Prix

The Manx Grand Prix began in 1923. It was first called the 'Manx Amateur Road Races' (MARC). This name lasted until 1930. Then, it was officially renamed the Manx Grand Prix. In the early days, it was tricky to decide who counted as an 'amateur' rider.

Many riders who do well in the MGP later race in the TT. However, rules stop them from racing modern bikes in the MGP again. They can only race vintage motorcycles. For example, Chris Palmer and Richard Britton raced old Manx Nortons in 2005.

The official logo of the Manx Grand Prix

In 1989, Gloria Clark made history. She became the first woman to race in the MGP. In 1991, she was even in the Guinness Book of Records. This was for being the fastest woman on the TT Circuit. Later, Carolynn Sells became the first female winner. She won the Ultra-Lightweight event in 2009.

The Manx Motor Cycle Club (MMCC) organizes the MGP. They follow rules from the Auto-Cycle Union (ACU). The ACU manages most motorcycle events in Britain.

Race Categories

The Manx Grand Prix has different race categories. These categories group together various types of motorcycles.

Newcomers Race

The Newcomers class is for riders new to the Mountain Circuit. The TT races do not have a class like this. So, it's the only chance for new riders to race this circuit. Many riders want to join this class. Riders can use bikes up to 750cc. They must wear special colored bibs during practice. This helps other riders spot them. Newcomers can also apply for other classes. Their experience decides if they get to race.

2024 Race Classes

For 2024, the main race classes are:

• Lightweight Manx Grand Prix: This includes 250cc 2-stroke, 200-401cc 4-stroke, Supersport 400, or Moto3 bikes. Each type of motorcycle has its own winner.
• Classic Senior Manx Grand Prix: For 500cc 2-strokes made before 1968. Also, 4-strokes made before 1973.
• Classic Junior Manx Grand Prix: For smaller 350cc machines. Famous past winners include Michael Dunlop and Lee Johnston.
• Junior Manx Grand Prix: For Supertwin machines.
• Senior: This is a main race category.
• Classic Superbike: For bikes made up to 1997.

Clubman Racing

The Manx Motorcycle Club also has 'Clubman' races. These are for amateur riders. They compete in the Lightweight, Classic Junior, Classic Senior, and Classic Superbike Races. Riders who are accepted for the Isle of Man TT are called 'TT' competitors. Others are 'Clubman' and get special awards.

Newcomers wear orange or yellow bibs during practice. This helps other riders see them. Classic riders wear white bibs for the same reason.

How the Races Work

The Manx Grand Prix starts with 'Practice' sessions. Riders get to learn the course. They must complete enough laps at a good speed. This helps them qualify for the actual races.

On the first evening of practice, newcomers get a special tour. Traveling Marshals (marshals on bikes) guide them around the course slowly. After this, newcomers can ride at their own speed.

MGP 2024 Provisional Schedule

*This schedule might change. It depends on approvals and road closures. Specific times will be announced later. If the weather is bad, races can be delayed. They might even be moved to other days. Race distances can also be made shorter by the organizers.

Famous MGP Riders

The Manx Grand Prix has helped many riders become famous. Riders like Martin Finnegan and Davy Morgan started here. They later became well-known TT stars. They also race in other events, especially in Ireland.

Older famous names include Freddie Frith, Phil Read, and Geoff Duke. They all raced at the TT. Duke and Read even became world champions many times. Mike Casey was a winner in 1995.

The late Gary Carswell, Senior race winner in 1997, with the A.B. Crookall Trophy

Joey Dunlop, known as 'King of the Mountain,' also raced in the MGP. He is the most successful TT rider ever. He even got a podium finish on a Classic Aermacchi bike.

Awards and Trophies

Many awards are given out at the MGP each year. The Manx Motorcycle Club uses entry fees and donations to pay for these awards. Many trophies and cups have been given over the years. They range from 'Fastest Lap' to 'Most Meritorious Performance by a Newcomer.'

The winner of the Junior Manx Grand Prix gets the Douglas Pirie Trophy. The Senior Manx Grand Prix winner receives the A.B. Crookall Trophy. A rider can only win the A.B. Crookall Trophy once. After winning it, they must then enter the TT Races.

All riders who finish a race get a Finisher's Medal. If they finish within a certain time of the winner, they get a 'Replica.' Replicas are given to those finishing within 110% of the winner's time. There are also team awards. These are for riders from the same sponsor or motorcycle club. There are about 42 different awards in total.

Other Events During MGP Fortnight

The MGP is very popular with motorcycle fans. It has a more relaxed feel than the TT. During the races, there are many club meetings. These often feature classic motorcycles. There is also a Classic Parade on closed roads. Unlike the TT, there isn't a funfair in Douglas. But there are other fun things to do. These include local music acts and the Manx 3-day Trial.

Manx Grand Prix Lap Records

These are some of the fastest laps recorded at the Manx Grand Prix.

See also

• Isle of Man TT
• North West 200
• Ulster Grand Prix