Isle Of Man TT Course

Something rather special, and single-minded, is needed for roads as intimidating as these.

- Henry Catchpole

AS YOU REACH FOR THE BEDSIDE switch, and with a ‘click’ plunge your world into darkness, so the scenes flicker in your mind. And as your head sinks into the pillow, taking the strain from your neck and relaxing your shoulders, so the sounds begin to play in your ears. There are nearly always two identical cars because, hey, you’re dreaming, and it’s cooler with a pair. And the road is always closed. No traffic. No limits.

Initially you see the two shapes, almost perfect wedges in this instance, as if from a helicopter. Already in full flight, they are tearing across a bleak landscape, heathery mountain moorland spreading out around. The distant sea, despite the sun being out, has a steely blue hue.