The names of Padgett’s of Batley has been synonymous with road racing for generations and during the period 1965 - 1980 the founding brothers Peter and Don and Peter’s sons Clive and Gary were regular competitors at the Southern 100 held every July on the Billown Course.

Peter and Don first lined up beside each other on the starting grid in 1965 - 250cc race on what were to become the famous Padgett Yamaha’s.

Peter rode each year up to and including 1970 with a best 8th place in the 350cc race of 1970.

Don continued up to and including 1977, although he took a sabbatical in 1968 & 1969, achieving his best results in 1972, with two podium places - 3rd in the 350cc race and 2nd in the Solo Championship Race.

Clive, now Team Manager of the Valvoline Racing by Padgetts Honda made his only Southern 100 appearance in 1977, finishing second to Joey Dunlop and taking the Newcomers award.

Gary only road in the friendly races once in 1980 taking 3rd in the 250cc race, finishing 15th overall in the Solo Championship, winning the 250cc class, also collecting the Best Newcomer Award.

After a 35-year absence the organisers are very pleased to welcome the Padgett family back to the Billown Paddock especially in our Diamond Jubilee year, with the Valvoline Racing by Padgetts Honda machines in the hands of local rider Dan Kneen.

Dan joined the 130 mph club in the recent TT and had three great top 10 finishes.

Photo - Don Padgett - 1977.