This year’s Manx Classic is once again supported by local car dealer Mylchreests, which is delighted to be associated with this three-stage competitive classic car rally, which takes place on closed roads from Thursday 28th to Saturday 30th April.

The Manx Motor Racing Club was formed in 1987, and two years later held the first Manx Classic Rally which attracts entrants from all over the UK, and is open to drivers of classic cars – those built before 1968. Mylchreests has been involved since the start, providing course cars for the race officials and a venue for the prize giving on the final evening.

“Enthusiasts want to race their cars here because it is a very rare opportunity to drive on the iconic TT course when the roads are closed,” says David Mylchreest. “And because it involves two hill climbs it is a true test of both driving skills and the build of the car, some of which date back to the 1920s”.

The first stage is a sprint, beginning in the pit lane at the TT Grandstand, and then making a U turn up towards the Nook on Thursday 28 April. “This is an evening stage, beginning at 6pm,” continues David, “and the sight and sound of these classic cars revving their engines and then flying up towards the Nook is a great opportunity for spectators.” Stage 2 on Friday is the first hill climb, Creg Willey through to Cronk y Voddy and then, on Saturday the cars and drivers gather on May Hill in Ramsey for the Lhergy Frissell Hill Climb from Whitegates to Guthries.

As each stage includes two practice runs and up to three timed runs there is plenty for spectators to see on each day. And, as the cars set off at regular intervals, it’s a great opportunity for spectators and classic car fanatics to talk to the drivers and admire their vehicles.

“It isn’t just a social occasion, it’s also very competitive,” laughs David who once again has entered with his own 1963 MGB. “The cars must be road legal, but anyone who enters must have the correct safety gear and equipment, and be passed as fit to compete by the scrutineers. There’s electronic timing of all the runs and the winners of each class can be just fractions of a second faster than the next car.”

More information about the event can be found at manxmotorracing.com. Anyone who’d like to volunteer as a marshal for any of the three stages, should contact Paul Dewar on 420995.

Photo - Visitor Tim Greenhill in his 1935 Wolseley Hornet Special (credit: Denise Moore).