As the Isle of Man-based Southern 100 road racing event approaches, enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating the annual influx of overseas riders. Since its inaugural run on Thursday, 14th July 1955, the ‘friendly races‘ have attracted competitors from adjacent islands, including England, Scotland, the Island of Ireland North and South, and Wales. Moreover, the July event has consistently drawn in riders from Europe, the Americas, and the Antipodes, solidifying its reputation as a premier road racing destination.
A Rich History of International Participation
The first Southern 100 in 1955 featured Gavin Dunlop from New Zealand, a pioneer of the ‘Continental Circus.’ A year later, fellow Kiwi George Murphy followed in his footsteps, racing at the iconic Billown circuit. Over the past 68 years, the event has welcomed a steady stream of international riders, with 2024 being no exception.
International Riders to Watch
This year, a total of seven solo competitors, two sidecar crews, and one sidecar passenger will make the journey to compete on the 4.25-mile Colas Billown Course. Among the notable solo riders is Finland’s Erno Kostamo, who recently enjoyed a successful stint at the TT Races in June. Kostamo will pilot his BMW, sponsored by 38 Motorsport by Penz 13. Another BMW-mounted rider, Belgium’s Jean Pierre Polet, will represent the Roads Warriors team.
- French riders Amalric Blanc and Cedric Assouvie will campaign a 1000 Honda CBR and a BMW, respectively.
- David Thomas from the United States will ride a 659 Aprilia for Obsession Engineering Ltd, and compatriot Israel Gillette will compete on a 675 Triumph Daytona in the Supersport races.
- Lastly, Logan Barker will make the long journey from Saskatchewan, Canada, to ride a 650 Aprilia for McCrum’s Motorcycles.
Sidecar Action
In the sidecar category, debutants Eric Lenser and Anais Rasset will field their 599 DOM Suzuki, while Steveens Palacoeur and Yann Druel will campaign their 600 Vanneste Yamaha. Frenchman Kevin Rousseau will also make his debut, partnering with 2012 Sidecar Champion Ben Birchall.
Southern 100 Racing, the event promoters, extend a warm welcome to all overseas competitors and wish them an enjoyable and fast Southern 100 2024 experience at Billown this July.
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