Following months of recuperation from a crash at the North West 200 in May 2017, Knockhill had a surprise visitor yesterday as Isle of Man TT legend John McGuinness blagged a spot on the James Whitham Trackday to spin a few laps – his first time on a short circuit since the crash.
“It’s the first time I’ve riden round a track since May 2017, it’s been a long time. I did a few parade laps at the TT and at Goodwood last weekend but this is the first time I’ve done a fair amount of laps (100 or so). At first I was nervous going out there, despite having riden bikes for over 30 years, but we’re getting into a rhythm now and starting to enjoy it again,” said the 23-time TT winner.
McGuinness is well and truly back on the comeback trail and is targeting the Classic TT – Friday 24th August to Monday 27th August – as a realistic goal to get back into some form of competitive action.
“I had my heart set on doing this years TT, but my leg broke again and it just wasn’t meant to be. I always said I didn’t want my career to end with me upside down at the North West 200.
“So, I’m now focusing on the Classic TT, which is at the end of August; and that’s why we are here today – just to do a few laps and start to build the confidence again. Hopefully, I’ll be on the Paton at the TT and if I can go well there (to see if I still have the magic) and enjoy it then I’ll certainly be looking at the TT – to be honest I have my heart set on it… but we’ll see.”
We’ve already seen one miracle man around the TT. Will John McGuinness be another? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure, there will be thousands of fans around the world eager to see John back on the island racing once again.
You can find out more about the Classic TT Races by checking out the TT website.
https://www.iomtt.com/classic-tt
Best wishes from all Knockhill John, whatever you decide to do.