Description of Sectors Compiled from the Chief Sector Marshals' own reports (Current as of February 2015)

There are other sites that describe the TT/MGP course for their followers but this description is based around Marshalling the course.

The TT/MGP course is 37¾ miles long and for the purposes of Marshalling, is divided into 12 sectors.

Each sector is managed by a Chief Sector Marshal (CSM) and a number of Deputy Sector Marshals (DSM). Each DSM controls a section of the sector, usually a significant corner or a group of marshalling positions within a given area.

The total number of marshals needed to be in the correct positions around the course before a race or a practice can start is just over 500. Each sector has a "Minimum manning level" that is calculated to provide minimal cover at the various spots around the course.

SECTOR ONE Sector One starts at the return road at the Grandstand, goes down the famous (170 mph plus), heading towards Ago’s Leap and along to the Quarterbridge pub. This is the first right hand bend on the course now heading to Bridge and your first left hand corner.

There are a series of very fast bends at Braddan. From here you head out towards , a very fast right and left bend here, and out towards Ballahutchin. Sector One ends at Trollaby Lane. In Sector One we have three Church Halls selling food, a garage and three burger units and toilets. There are some fantastic marshalling points and I look forward to meeting you.

Alan Blaney, CSM

SECTOR TWO Sector 2 begins at the exit of Union Mills and travels along the A1 Douglas to Peel road ending at . Our sector is easily reached by bus or by car and can be accessed at the Crosby crossroads from both inside and outside the course. It is 5 miles from Douglas.

Our sector includes two of the most dangerous corners of the course: Ballagarey and Greeba Castle, meaning there is no shortfall of excitement! We have a full range of experienced marshals who are keen to show "Newbies" how it's done in a safe and controlled manner.

We have public toilets at the Crosby crossroads for those close calls and the Crosby Public House offers toilets, refreshments and excellent meals.

Howard Ellison, CSM

SECTOR THREE Sector Three – the Happy Sector. Where else can you get marshalling points with marshals who bring home made cake, access to Tynwald Mills shops and cafes during lunch breaks, the confidence of working with experienced marshals of all ages and views of some of the most beautiful but most hair raising parts of the TT Circuit. Sector Three extends from through the bends of Greeba, Knock Breck and to where riders sometimes forget they have to turn right. The Sector then goes uphill to – Richard “Milky” Quayle’s favourite part of the circuit - then under the trees to and on to Doran’s Bends where the riders are safely delivered into the hands of Sector Four. Sector Three contains corners, straights, very comfortable hedges and some damn fine sheep.

Dave Dentith, CSM

SECTOR 4 Leaving Sector 3 at Dorans Exit the first flag point in Sector 4 is Beary Bridge which immediately leads into the sharp tight 1 and Laurel Bank 2 sections. There are Portaloos provided at both sections with good car parking but there is very limited spectator access and viewing at both points. After passing the 9th milestone flag point on the right, Glen Mooar Garage which has the radio call sign “Black Dub” is met. At this point is a red flag parking up area, the car park apron is a restricted area which means that no spectators are permitted within it. Again there is a Portaloo provided for marshals at this point. Good car parking. After the sharp left/right bends at the dub, we pass the Vaaish flag point which immediately precedes the helicopter site at the sheep fields on the right hand side.

Good car parking and again equipped with a Portaloo, the sheep fields are a popular spectator vantage point with easy access to and from Glen Helen via a footpath running alongside the course. This footpath also connects Glen Helen 1 and Glen Helen 2 (Bridge) flag points which in turn leads into Glen Helen car park.

At this position is the first Radio Commentary point on the course and as such it is a busy and popular spectator area. There are excellent facilities on offer here including public toilets. As a marshalling point it is the second of three red flag parking up areas within the sector. As the competitors exit the sharp uphill left hander out of Glen Helen, at the top of Creg Willeys Hill, is probably the trickiest series of bends the riders confront on Sector 4. Sarah’s Cottage is a place which demands good judgment from the riders. There is good car parking and a Portaloo for marshals. However there are very few spectators.

As we pass the intermediate flag points at the “Pallet” and the “Saltbin” (humorously known as “the Sin Bin”) we come to the Lambfell section with its three flag points; which in turn leads onto the very fast Cronk-y-Voddy straight where speeds of up to 180 mph are achieved. This is a very popular area for spectators to enjoy the racing and all marshals need to display an extra degree of vigilance at this point. The Cronk-y-Voddy straight is no place for anyone to attempt a “Usain Bolt” across the course. The Sector ends at Cronk-y-Voddy Crossroads, which is also the third of the red flag parking up points.

Sector 4 has a total of 21 flag points within its 2.5 miles length; many of its sub sections have sharp complex bends and corners which ensure that riders and marshals alike are kept interested! Each section has its own Deputy Sector Marshal and manning level, (52 is the minimum required to marshal the sector) and each point has its own particular attraction.

Sector 4 is always looking for people to recruit into it's ranks, and a warm welcome is always extended to “Newbies” and to marshals who perhaps would like a change of scene. For more information, please contact the CSM Colin Watterson through the TTMA office.

Colin Watterson, CSM

SECTOR FIVE Like many other Sectors, Sector 5 is divided into smaller sections, with each section being under the direction of a Deputy Sector Marshal. We have 5 such sections known as 'Burnside', '11th Milestone', 'Handleys', 'Top of ' and 'Bottom of Barregarrow'.

The minimum manning for the sector is 35 and there are 20 positions throughout the sector that need to be manned before the races or practices can commence.

Many places are one-man positions but we try to place two people at these locations if we are lucky enough to have sufficient Marshals on duty. Almost all positions are within easy reach of the section base allowing return at lunchtime or other delays to the racing. It a largely rural area meaning most, if not all, Marshals have to travel to reach the sector as none live locally.

Section 1 is known as BURNSIDE. Sector 5's first marshalling position is Voddy Flag at the end of the Cronk-y-Voddy straight. It is a one-man point and the marshal at this point also alerts the rest of the sector as the bikes approach, rising out of Glen Helen as they appear at the end of the straight. It may look a long way away but it only takes them 7 seconds to reach us! No time to run across the road here! This position is located in a private garden but this is only separated from the spectators in the field by a garden wall. As such, there is no catering facility although there is a wagon in the field next to the house, but it usually isn't necessary as the house owners are very generous with their tea, coffee and even known to provide beef sandwiches!

The position is easily reached from the Section control point.... Burnside This is the control point for this section with one DSM (currently Nick) and 2 other Marshals. Plenty of parking on the owners land and although there is no catering, the house owners are generous with their tea and the DSM provides tea-making facilities.

The final point within the first section is known as the Stockade. This is halfway along the straight and is now a two-man position. This position is surrounded by spectators who are allowed on the banks either side of the marshalling position. There is no catering at this location and parking is either at the 11th milestone or at Burnside and between races, it is possible to return to base at Burnside.

Section 2 is known as 'the 11th'. The 11th Flag is a one-man point within easy walking distance and parking of the control point. It is a one-man position stood on a scaffold platform. No catering here but between races, it is usual to return to base at the 11th milestone.

The base point for this section is the 11th Milestone. One DSM and 4 marshals are the minimum. Plenty of parking in the field but no public catering. There is a toilet here and the DSM and his family provide plenty of tea and biscuits! T hey even had their own Chief Tea Boy although now grown up (a lot!), he probably no longer appreciates the title!

The 11th Milestone also supplies a marshal for the next position, a one man (or usually, woman) point called Ballig Flag. Another position located atop a scaffold with an excellent view of the bikes coming from the 11th Milestone and disappearing towards Handleys. Before we get to Handleys, the next point is Mac's Cottage. This is a one-man point and is the only red-flag position in the sector. Again there is no catering but return to base between races is possible through the field.

Section 3 is 'Handleys' Starting with the one-man (or woman) point of Handleys Flag on right-hand side just before the quick left-right, narrowly missing the stone wall. Again, there is no catering but the landowners provide cups of tea and access to their toilet if necessary.

The base for the sector is next - Handleys corner. Manned by a Deputy, and 4 Marshals. Catering in the form of tea & coffee plus biscuits, cakes and who knows what else is provided by the DSM. Now mounted on a tower which gives good visibility as the bikes suddenly appear. Just along the road, is the 12th Milestone. Another one-man position with a small hardstanding.

Shoughlaige Farm is next. A single position but has full medical equipment at this position. The final point controlled from Handleys is Shoughlaigue Bridge. A fast left-hand bend once described by John McGuinness as his favourite corner on the course and renamed after him in 2012. A small platform alongside the bridge for the Marshals to stand on provides good visibility as the bikes come round the right-hand bend from the Farm and disappear along the straight towards...

Ballaskyr. This is the first position in the next section, 'Top of Barregarrow'. A single-man position with good views as the bikes hit a slight bump in the road and often pass the Marshalling position on their back wheel only!

Top of Barregarrow flag is just across the road from the base and yet another singleton position. Barregarrow crossroads or 'Top of Barregarrow' is the base station for this section. A DSM plus 3 other Marshals man this point.

Catering is available here from the Cronk Aashen campsite owners, a short walk along Brandywell road. There is also a toilet intended for the Marshals only but often used by the public as well. Plenty of parking and a popular place for spectators on the bank. A close watch is needed to stop them straying into the restricted and prohibited areas!

Barregarrow Hill. A two-man position within easy walking of the base station although returning to base is uphill!

The final section on the Sector is 'Bottom of Barregarrow'. Three positions, starting with another one-man point, Bottom of Barregarrow Flag. The main point in the section is next, Bottom of Barregarrow. A DSM plus a minimum of 3 other marshals. Easy parking on the landowners driveway but no catering apart from the self-catering organised by the DSM and the regular team. A toilet is available at this location. This position is often very over- subscribed but we try to accommodate people's wishes to visit occasionally. A very popular position which is now, sadly, mostly prohibited or restricted meaning there are very few spectators in the area although some do brave the ditches and streams to get there. The final point in the section and in the sector is Cammall Farm. No catering and very limited parking. This is the entrance to holiday cottages and usually manned by the owner of the farm. It is the final flag point before the next sector, Sector 6.

Robert Crane, CSM

SECTOR 6 FROM AND INCLUDING WESTWOOD TO ALPINE CORNER WESTWOOD: Section of three very fast bends on the approach to Kirk Michael Village with minimum manning level of 8 Marshals and Deputy Sector Marshal in attendance. Need to bring your own refreshments but toilets and parking available.

DOUGLAS ROAD CORNER: Fast right-hand bend in Kirk Michael Village with minimum manning level of 6 marshals and Deputy Sector Marshal in attendance. Need to bring your own refreshments but parking available.

WHITEHOUSE: This area covers the centre of Kirk Michael Village from the top of the Village (Michael Car Centre) to the Whitehouse Cottages. Refreshments are currently available in the Whitehouse Field along with Parking and toilets

BIRKINS/RHEN CULLYN: Another fast section on the exit from Kirk Michael and towards Bishopscourt Straight. Minimum manning level of 9 Marshals with Deputy Sector Marshal in attendance. Need to bring refreshments but parking and toilets available. BISHOPSCOURT/ORRISDALE NORTH. Minimum of 5 marshals needed. You need to bring your own refreshments and parking is available but no toilets.

ALPINE COTTAGE. A very fast series of bends on approach and exit heading towards . Minimum manning level of 6 marshals with Deputy Sector Marshal in attendance. There are toilets and parking but need to bring your own refreshments. Favourite spot of the Chief Sector Marshal Kevin Quinn although he does visit all locations throughout the event.

Crossing points are open from Douglas Road Corner to Faaie ny Cabbal during the lunch break to allow traffic through the Village. The Mitre Hotel at the top of the Village serves food throughout the day.

Kevin Quinn, CSM

SECTOR SEVEN My name is Eddie Christian I am the Chief Sector Marshal for Sector7, which runs from Alpine to the . Firstly a bit about myself, I started marshalling in the early sixties and worked myself up to eventually becoming CSM, and, along with my wife Rosemary, run the Sulby Glen Hotel. If anybody is unsure where to marshal Sector7 is the place to be. We have the spectacular , the sweeping fast bend at Ballacrye followed by a very fast jump, then it's on to the another great place to marshal. That’s followed by the Sulby Straight where speeds of nearly 200 mph are reached before rounding Sulby Bridge, and then sweeping round the Ginger Hall and off towards Ramsey.

So that’s a brief description of the Sector, as well as myself there are 6 DSMs who will be pleased to meet you and look after you. They are all very experienced and very helpful. The DSMs are at Ballaugh, Ballacrye, Quarry Bends, Sulby Bridge, and Ginger Hall. All of these venues have toilets and food. The only place you will need your own food is Quarry Bends. So come on now, get your form back as soon as possible, preferably to somewhere to somewhere in Sector 7, then my deputies and myself can get to meet you.

Eddie Christian, CSM

SECTOR EIGHT Kerrowmoar Description: There are 4 marshalling points associated with Kerrowmoar. The first is Kerrowmoar West at the top of the Hill. The second location is Kerrowmoar 1 where the riders are literally inches from you as they take the left hand bend. Kerrowmoar 2 follows which is a fairly quick right hand bend and Kerrowmoar 3 has the jump before riders head along the bumpy stretch to . You don’t have to worry about spectators out here as there is nowhere for them to spectate from.

Number of Marshals: A minimum of 8 marshals are required for these four locations DSM: There are usually 2 DSM’s at Kerrowmoar, one located at Kerrowmoar 1 and the other at Kerrowmoar 2. Shelter: There is not much shelter at Kerrowmoar if it rains, but not much shade on sunny days either. Parking: Very limited parking. If you have a car, get there early and the DSM’s will show you where you can park. Motorcycles can be parked more easily. Catering/toilets: There are no catering facilities at this location, so you will need to bring your own food and drink. There is a toilet located at Kerrowmoar 1.

Glen Duff Description: There are 3 marshalling points at Glen Duff. The first is a Kerrowmoar East on the bumpy straight after the riders leave Kerrowmoar. One of the more bumpy stretches of the course which the risers take flat out. Next is Glen Duff, a flat out right hand bend where the front wheel leaves the road over the crest. Finally there is Glen Duff Farm which is on the approach to the two left hand bends before Glen Tramman. You don’t get many spectators out here as the only place they can spectate from is Glen Duff. Number of Marshals: A minimum of 6 marshals are required for these three locations DSM: There is usually 1 DSM who can be at any of the three locations during a session. He will always be at Glen Duff 10 – 15 minutes before roads close Shelter: There is not much shelter at Glen Duff or Glen Duff Farm, but Kerrowmoar 3 is sheltered by the trees. Parking: Ample parking at Glen Duff and it is a 3 minutes’ walk from there to either Kerrowmoar East or Glen Duff Farm Catering/toilets: There are no catering facilities at this location, so you will need to bring your own food and drink. There is a toilet located at Glen Duff.

Glen Tramman Description: There are 3 marshalling points at Glen Tramman. The first is the flag point at the Garey Road, a medium speed right hand corner where you can see the riders approach at high speed before slowing down for Glen Tramman. You can see them entering Glen Tramman from this location. Glen Tramman is a medium speed left hand bend and from here you can see the riders accelerate away towards Churchtown. The final location is the Loop Road immediately after Glen Tramman. The riders are heading straight for you as they exit Glen Tramman. There are spectators at the Garey Road and the loop road, but there are no spectator areas at Glen Tramman itself. Number of Marshals: A minimum of 6 marshals are required for these three locations DSM: There is usually 1 DSM at Glen Tramman Shelter: There is a hut at Glen Tramman. Parking: Ample parking on the loop road Catering/toilets: There are no catering facilities at this location, although there are facilities which can be used at Churchtown between races. There is a toilet located at this location.

Churchtown Description: There are 2 marshalling points at Churchtown separated by 100 yards but with totally different views. Ballakillingan Farm is a right hand kink. You can see the bikes approach from Glen Tramman, and lift the front wheel over the crest. The second location is Churchtown where the riders swoop past only feet away. The fields opposite have become a popular spectator area in the last few years hence the catering facilities now provided there by the land owners. It should be noted that all their profits go to local charities and the IOMTTMA have benefited from this in the past. Number of Marshals: A minimum of 2 marshals are required for these locations DSM: There is usually 1 DSM located between these marshalling points Shelter: There is limited shelter at this point Parking: Ample parking on the loop road or the Garey Road Catering/toilets: Over the last few years there have been facilities available in the field opposite this marshalling location, although you can only get to them between races. There is a toilet located at Churchtown Caravan which is a 3 minute walk away through the field.

Churchtown Caravan Description: There are 2 marshalling points at Churchtown Caravan and Skye Hill. The caravan is a very fast bumpy right hand bend at the end of the Conker Fields. Skye Hill is a fast and bumpy left hand bend on the approach to Pinfold Cottage. You sometimes get a few spectators at these points. Number of Marshals: A minimum of 3 marshals are required for these locations DSM: The DSM located at Pinfold Cottage looks after this marshalling point. Shelter: There is a hut at Churchtown Caravan and Skye Hill is under the trees. Parking: Motorcycles can be parked on the pavement behind the hut at the Caravan. Cars are best parked on the Churchtown loop road. It is a 3 minute walk back from here Catering/toilets: Over the last few years there have been facilities available in the field opposite this marshalling location, although you can only get to them between races. There is a toilet located at this point. Pinfold Cottage Description: A fast swooping S bend. You can see the riders approach from Skye Hill. There is limited viewing for spectators at this point. Number of Marshals: A minimum of 4 marshals are required for these locations DSM: There is usually a DSM at this location Shelter: There is a hut at Churchtown Caravan and Skye Hill is under the trees. Parking: There is no parking at this location. You are best to park at Gardeners Lane which is a 3 minute walk away. Catering/toilets: There are no catering facilities at this location, so you will need to bring your own food and drink. There is a toilet located at this point.

Gardeners Lane Description: There are two marshalling points here. The first at the jump at Glen Auldyn Bridge (regularly seen on the TT DVDs) and the second at the fast right hand corner known as Gardeners Lane. This is a popular viewing point especially for the Superbike races. Number of Marshals: A minimum of 4 marshals are required for these locations DSM: There is usually a DSM at this location Shelter: There is limited shelter under the trees Parking: Ample parking in Gardeners lane. Catering/toilets: There are no catering facilities at this location, although if you have transport you can drive into Ramsey through the estate. T here is a toilet located at this point.

School House Corner Description: There are two marshalling points here. The first on the straight at the Glen Auldyn School and the second the bumpy left hand corner known as Schoolhouse. You can see the riders approach from Gardener's Lane and see them peel into Parliament Square from here. Spectators are usually located in private gardens. Number of Marshals: A minimum of 5 marshals are required for these locations DSM: There is usually a DSM located at either of these 2 points Shelter: There is limited shelter under the trees Parking: There is limited parking at , but it is only a 5 minute walk from the car park at Shoprite. Catering/toilets: There are no catering facilities at this location, although between races you can walk into the centre of Ramsey in less than 5 minutes. There is a toilet located at this point.

Parliament Square Description: There are three marshalling points here. The first on the straight at Bircham Avenue on the approach to Parliament Square. The riders are just starting to sit up and brake as they pass you. There are two points in the Square, one on the approach and one on the exit. This is a popular spectator point in the heart of Ramsey. Number of Marshals: A minimum of 6 marshals are required for these locations DSM: There is usually a DSM located at this point Shelter: There is no shelter here Parking: There is parking at Shoprite car park. Catering/toilets: There catering facilities at this location. There is a public toilet located outside Shoprite.

Bus Station Description: Located on the straight between Parliament Square and Cruickshanks Corner. You can see the riders exit Parliament Square and peel into Cruickshanks from here. This is a popular spectator point Number of Marshals: A minimum of 2 marshals at this point DSM: The DSM at Cruickshanks looks after this point. Shelter: There is no shelter here Parking: There is parking at this location. Catering/toilets: There catering facilities at this location. There is a public toilet located outside Shoprite

Cruickshanks Description: A fast uphill right hand bend, which again is often featured on the TT DVDs. You can see the riders exit from Parliament Square and disappear up the hill towards Whitegates. This is another popular viewing point both on the inside of the course in Coronation Park or on the outside in the road junction or gardens. Number of Marshals: A minimum of 4 marshals at this point DSM: There is a DSM at this location Shelter: There is no shelter here Parking: There is parking at this location. Catering/toilets: There catering facilities within easy walking distance in Ramsey. There is a toilet at this location.

Whitegates Description: A reasonably fast left hand bend at the start of the Mountain climb. Spectators are usually located on the inside of the course in the lane near where the marshals stand. Number of Marshals: A minimum of 4 marshals at this point DSM: There is a DSM at this location Shelter: There is no shelter here Parking: There is parking at this location. Catering/toilets: There catering facilities within easy walking distance in Ramsey. There is no toilet at this location.

Stella Maris Description: A reasonably fast right hand bend at the start of the Mountain climb. You can see the riders leave Whitegates from here see them peel into . The garden of Stella Maris is another popular viewing place. Number of Marshals: A minimum of 2 marshals at this point DSM: There is a DSM at this location Shelter: There is no shelter here Parking: There is no parking at this location, but you can park at Whitegates and it is a 2 minute walk from there. Catering/toilets: There are no catering facilities at this location, so you will need to bring your own food and drink. There is no toilet located at this point although there is one at Ramsey Hairpin which is a 2 minute walk away between races.

Ramsey Hairpin Description: A slow hairpin bend, and the location of the commentary box (so watch what you say when they are on air!!) You can see the riders exit from Stella Maris from here and then disappear away up towards the Waterworks. Spectators can usually be found on both the inside and outside of the corner. Number of Marshals: A minimum of 2 marshals at this point DSM: There is a DSM at this location Shelter: The only helter is under the trees Parking: There is parking at this location Catering/toilets: There are no catering facilities at this location, so you will need to bring your own food and drink. There is a toilet located at this point.

SECTOR NINE If you are interested in marshalling the mountain section of the course, Sector 9 is ideal. Not only is normal public access to many areas difficult on foot, it can be nigh on impossible on two or four wheels unless you go off road. Weather conditions over the sector can be very variable. I have seen it go from bright sun shine with good visibility to being unable to see 100 yards up the road because of thick mist in the time it takes to make a phone call to Control. However, if you wrap up warm and come prepared with waterproofs and sun cream, you should have a good time and will generally find us a friendly, if eccentric, lot.

Generally most spots not only have excellent views of the bikes but, in my opinion, also have some of the best scenery and seascape on the island.

A brief guide to the sector Sector 9 starts just past the hairpin on the way out of Ramsey. The course rises steeply to Waterworks, the first of our main marshalling points.

Waterworks is a fast right hander and very difficult to spectate from and get a view both in and out of the bend, but as a marshal a different story. Cathy Pullen is currently my Deputy Sector Marshal here. She has years of experience, making it an excellent choice for the novice or recently qualified who really wants to learn the art of marshalling the TT course. Cathy, being a trainer for the St. John Ambulance, can offer plenty of advice. There is very limited parking and even that is on the bottom road requiring a stiff walk uphill, but having got there it is really worth it, even if it is just for the view across Ramsey bay and nothing else.

From Waterworks the course continues to rise to and Tower Layby. Each used to be a marshalling point in it’s own right, but Tower Bends has been eliminated on safety grounds with Tower Layby now being the main point. There is limited parking for marshals in the road to the reservoir car park with hardly any walking. A fast bend but with minimal “in and out” visibility even for marshals, but a spot that it is not possible to spectate from easily unless you are a member of the Orange Army.

Continuing up the hill our next marshalling point is Gooseneck, a well known and popular spectator viewing spot, especially as the Manx radio commentary is usually available on the Tannoy. TheGooseneck is a fast, rising right hander and as many bikers know, very easy to get wrong. However, this also means that it’s a good spot for the press and TV crews, (so if you do decide to marshal here be careful not to get “in the news” for the wrong reasons). An easy spot to access, there is ample parking with access back onto the coast road if you want to avoid the course's one way system.

Further up the hill is 26th Milestone or Joey's as it is now known. There is no public parking here so all spectators have to walk if they want to watch from here. But a good spot to marshal from with parking and a good view of the bikes over a fair old distance.

Next is Guthrie’s, a very fast stretch on rising sweeping bends up to the start of the proper. I had forgotten how fast they go here. It was awe inspiring when I made my first stop here as CSM compared with my old spot of Mountain Box it was just jaw dropping. The stone hut is apparently no more, succumbing to the ravages of time and weather, it is now a metal container until decisions are made about replacement. There is very limited parking here but just a short walk up the hill the marshals can park in the forest track. Another area with no public parking.

We then move onto 27th Milestone (or just the 27th) - the start of the Mountain Mile. Another fast spot with a fast left hander rising out of Guthrie’s. The marshalling point here is up on a scaffold which gives quite a good view. There is no public parking but the marshals can park in the forest track opposite.

Now we are onto the Mountain Mile itself. This is really 3 marshalling points in one and not a spot for the feint-hearted. The main spot is in the of the mile with outposts either side. Unfortunately, whilst this an excellent section to marshal from it has very limited parking, with no more than one small car at the outposts and a car and a couple of bikes at the main point. But if you wrap up and come prepared you are in for some very spectacular racing with excellent views of the bikes over fairly long distances.

My personal favourite is still the Mountain Box. Not only can you see the bikes rising out of the 27th and entering the mile but you can also watch them all the way along the mile until they pass on towards Casey’s. Unfortunately, visibility out of the corner towards Casey’s is not as good. There is ample parking here along the green road and on a good day you can get plenty of spectators. And if you are into bird watching you can very often see a Harrier skimming the hillside.

Casey’s is a stone built hut on the last right hander approaching Black Hut. A good spot to watch from but with very limited parking even for marshals. However there is some parking available at Black Hut a couple of hundred yards up the road.

Black Hut is the last marshalling point on Sector 9. A fast left hander where you can see the bikes coming out of the bends from Mountain Box with the riders setting themselves up for the Verandah. A good spot to watch from but with limited parking. There is no public parking.

I hope this has given you a flavour of Sector 9 and if you fancy marshalling the mountain section I think you would find Sector 9 very rewarding. It is a very varied section with many challenges, not least the weather, but if you are up for it why not give it a go. If you need any further information please email or ring. Looking forward to seeing you at the TT, MGP or better still both. Vic Smirthwaite, Chief Sector Marshal SECTOR TEN The Verandah to the 32nd

The Good Bits 1. Fast racing and the chance to see them for up to a mile. 2. The people – many have been marshalling on the Mountain for some years and are a friendly bunch 3. The views of the Island – especially on good days 4. Less “Crowd Control”

The not quite so Good 1. 1. During TT you need to be there earlier and leave later 2. 2. It can be wet and cold

The Verandah: Fast right hander – four bends taken as one. Minimum manning is one DSM and four marshals. Marshals are now positioned on the outside of the course, midway around, with a “Spotter” above the road. The eyes for the others on what happens on the following straight. There is a metal shelter and Portaloo. Limited parking at the old shelter on the inside of the course on the straight following the bends (two cars plus bikes). No catering, but the marshals cook and brew their own on a gas cooker. Fantastic views down the Laxey valley.

Graham's Memorial: Fast “S” bend. Minimum manning is one DSM and three marshals. Flagman at the entry with the other marshals at the brick shelter on the second bend. There is a Portaloo. No parking for cars. Bikes can park on the grass or walk round from the Bungalow. No catering. Marshals cook and brew on a single camping stove. Fantastic views down over Laxey Valley.

The Bungalow: Quick “S” bend. Popular with spectators. Minimum manning one DSM and four marshals plus medics. Flagman at entry with other marshals in a brick shelter on the second bend of three. Portaloo. Plenty of parking or take the tram up from Laxey. Connecting road with Sulby Crossroads and Ginger Hall. Catering. Burger van on site, with tea brewing etc. in the shelter. Views of the bikes all the way up to Brandywell, and also views down the Laxey valley.

Brandywell: Highest point on the course.Another quick “S” bend. Popular with spectators. Minimum manning is one DSM, three marshals and a travelling marshal. Flagman at the entry (Hailwood Heights) the other marshals at the brick shelter on the second bend. Portaloo. Plenty of parking. Connecting roads with Baaregarrow, Crosby, , Union Mills, Cronk ny Mona and Douglas via the access road. Catering van sometimes in practice week and normally in race week. Brewing facilities. Views of the bikes along the Verandah Straight, Bungalow and all the way up to Brandywell. Mountain views all round.

32nd Milestone: Three left handers. Very fast, taken as one by the fast boys and (Dukes) girls. Very close to the bikes. Not for the faint hearted. DSM and three marshals. Flagman before entry, two marshals in the brick shelter, midway round, and second flagman at the exit. Camping toilet maintained by the resident crew. Limited parking opposite the entry flag box (two cars plus bikes). No catering, but marshals can brew up on single camping stove. Views of the bikes for at least ½ mile. Views across Douglas, central valley and further south. All marshals without transport can take the minibus pick up from Laxey or the Creg. Please ask at the office when you sign on.

All three Mountain sectors may be open but they offer fast racing with stunning views of the Island. Try it and you too may become hooked.

Mike Brown, CSM

SECTOR ELEVEN We Mountain folk embrace new marshals. It can get a bit cold and blowy up there but we are a hardy breed.

Windy Corner A fast sweeping right hander. The big boys come through there at about 150mph from the 32nd. There are toilet facilities and a shelter but no catering, so bring plenty of food and a flask. It does get windy up there as the name suggests, but the crew are friendly and welcoming. Car parking facilities available.

33rd milestone Not a bad place to marshal. When the bikes come round there they come at you pretty fast. There will be a toilet there this year but the same as windy corner there is no catering, so bring food and drink with you. Limited parking. There is a hut here.

Keppel Gate Good viewing and parking and a shelter. No catering, but there is a stove for cooking and Brian the DSM does cook. Please offer to contribute if you do accept the offer of food. A very friendly crew.

Kate's cottage Limited parking a shelter. Not for the faint hearted. Very nice crew and very welcoming.

Creg ny baa No shelter but there is parking. If you would like to marshal there be there early, or you may be charged to park. There are no dispensations for the marshals, unfortunately. There is catering there run by the pub and the food is very good.

Hope to see in Sector 11 this year

Sam Bowker, CSM

SECTOR TWELVE What is Sector 12? For any new Marshal Sector 12 is the last Sector on the course before the end of each lap.

It is an ideal Sector for any marshal who lives (or stays whilst on the Island) in the Douglas or areas as many points are within easy walking distance. It is also so popular that many marshals who live elsewhere on the Island or visit every year return to their favoured corner for every TT or MGP.

The Sector covers the area from just after the famous Creg-ny-baa through to the Start/Finish area.

So what do we have at each location that could entice a new Marshal? I will try to outline the basics for you.

Brandish: This is a very fast sweeping left hand corner. The area includes 4 locations that require a minimum of 8 Marshals to safely cover each practice or race. There is a Deputy with responsibility for the Marshals and where they are dispersed in the area.

On a nice day there are excellent views of the bikes from Kate's Cottage area (in Sector 11) all the way down to Hillberry and then onwards to Cronk ny Mona.

There is a small old stone shelter and a Portaloo toilet is provided for Marshals.

Take all supplies with you for each session as there are no other facilities.

Parking is very limited, quite a few bikes can be parked behind the shelter but Marshals with a car may have to park about 200 yards down the road in a small lane, or go with their car up to the Police lay-by (Sunny Orchard) which is the first point within the Brandish area.

There is no access once roads are closed.

Hillberry: This is a very fast quite sharp right hand bend, not for the faint-hearted. The area also includes 4 locations that require a minimum of 8 marshals to safely cover each practice or race. There is a Deputy with responsibility for the marshals and where they are dispersed in the area.

There is no purpose-built shelter at this location but there are plenty of seats under the trees.

Parking can be limited as this is a very popular spot for spectators. A Portaloo toilet is provided for Marshals.

There is limited catering on race days from the small cabin behind the spectator grandstand.

There is access to and from Onchan when roads are closed.

Cronk ny Mona: A long left-hand corner. This requires a minimum of 4 marshals including the Deputy.

There is a modern stone shelter and parking is not a problem for bikes or cars.

There are no catering facilities but it is only a short distance to the spar shop in the adjacent housing estate. A Portaloo toilet is provided for marshals.

This corner is on the inside of the circuit and is accessible from most other inside points within Douglas and Union Mills.

Signpost Corner: A sharp right-hand bend that sometimes results in the riders overshooting and having to turn to regain the circuit. This also requires a minimum of 4 marshals including the Deputy.

There is no proper shelter at this location but parking is not a problem for bikes or cars. They can be safely parked in the adjacent housing estate and accessed through the garden behind the marshals. This is the home of a local race team sponsor (Martin Bullock) and refreshments and toilets are available for the marshals and spectators. There is access to Onchan once roads are closed.

Bedstead: A fast left-hand corner at the entrance to a housing estate. This also requires a minimum of 4 marshals including the Deputy.

There is no shelter at this location but parking is not a problem for bikes or cars. There are no catering facilities but it is only a short distance to the spar shop in the housing estate. A Portaloo toilet is provided for marshals.

This corner is on the inside of the circuit and is accessible from most other inside points within Douglas and Union Mills.

The Nook: A sharp right-hand bend where the circuit separates from the new road onto the traditional circuit. This also sometimes results in the riders overshooting and having to turn to regain the circuit. There is also a minimum requirement of 4 marshals including the Deputy.

There are no catering facilities. It is about a 10 minute walk to shops in Douglas or Onchan between races. A Portaloo toilet is provided for marshals.

Parking is possible in the lane behind the marshals' point.

Governor's Bridge: This comprises a right-hand hairpin bend, a slippery left-hand bend in the bottom of the old road and a fast right-hand bend where the riders rejoin the main road.

The area includes 4 locations for marshals that requires a minimum of 12 to safely cover each practice or race. There is a Deputy with responsibility for the marshals and where they are dispersed within the area.

There is no shelter at this location and catering is limited to race week only from the staff at the adjacent care home (Glenside). It is however just a short walk to the local supermarket. Parking is also available in the car park of the care home.

Toilet facilities are available in the care home

There is access to Douglas and Onchan when roads are closed. Duke's Avenue: There's no bend here and this point is right next to the Start/Finish area. It is a very fast straight and is also a good spot to see the bikes entering the pits for their fuel stops. This requires a minimum of 5 marshals including the Deputy. You must book early for this spot though as it is popular and space for marshals is limited.

This is next to the paddock so all facilities are available in the grandstand area. Limited parking is possible in the edge of the playing fields behind the marshals. There is access to Douglas when roads are closed and as with Governor's. The local supermarket is just a short walk.

I hope these short descriptions give you a little more insight into the Sector and perhaps will convince you to come and join us.

Please remember though that if you are at a point that is well-manned you may be asked to go to a point nearby that is short-handed. In this Sector that would require little more than a 5 minute walk and in some cases you are able to take your vehicle with you, so that you can get away easily when we finish. If you walk somewhere then I, or one of the other Marshals you are with, will always give you a ride back to where you started.

I look forward to seeing you all at some point and welcoming you in person.

John Walsh, CSM