SIDE-CAR: THANKS to the support of Solihull Observer readers, side-car passenger Anne Garnish has successfully completed the Isle of Man TT races.
Anne normally passengers for local driver Simon Smith at short-circuit meetings, but Simon made a tough decision to take a year out from the TT to concentrate on his other racing.
Readers of the Observer contacted Anne in May to pledge their support for her TT campaign with donations. Their names were featured on the fairing as she raced on the 37.74-mile public road circuit last week.
The unique course is considered to be one of the most challenging and dangerous circuits in the world.
Her driver was veteran French campaigner, Francois Leblond, completing his 13th TT.
Together they placed 23rd in both races with average speeds of over 103mph. On aggregate they achieved 18th place in the field of over 50 teams.
In 2013, Anne competed with driver David Saunders of Willow Racing at the TT where they crashed in practice week, returning to racing at the end of the the year.
“I am so pleased to have had the opportunity to return to the Isle of Man TT.” she said.
“After last year’s crash, I felt I had unfinished business with the circuit.
“My goal was to complete one race, so to have two Finishers’ Medals and average speeds of over 100mph is a dream come true.
“We missed out on a Bronze Replica trophy by 0.5mph in our first race, so I may have to go back again now.
“I’d like to thank everyone supported our TT campaign and made this possible. Not only did their names appear on our TT fairing, but they’ll also be featured on Simon Smith’s fairing as we compete in more club championship rounds in the UK this year.”
Smith flew over to the Isle of Man for Sidecar Race A to support his short-circuit passenger, which has rekindled his desire to tackle the TT again.
In 2015, Simon will be entering the TT with passenger Dave Gristwood in the chair, and will be competing in the British Championship with Anne.
