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Fourteen-times Isle of Man sidecar TT winners Ben and Tom Birchall are the latest and much-deserved winners of the Royal Automobile Club’s Segrave Trophy, awarded for ‘outstanding skill, courage and initiative’.
“We are delighted to recognise the remarkable achievements of Ben and Tom,” says Club Chairman Duncan Wiltshire. “Racing at the Isle of Man TT is always a perilous adventure, the Birchall brothers’ efforts perfectly mirror the adventurous spirit of Sir Henry Segrave, after whom the trophy is named. They pushed both themselves and their machines to the limit in pursuit of speed.”
There are few motor sports quite like racing sidecars around the 37.73-mile mountain course – driver and passenger threading the eye of the needle between hedgerows and farmhouses – no room for error, just like the pioneers of motor racing a century and more ago.
The first races on the Isle of Man were organised by the Automobile Club of Great Britain, which later became the Royal Automobile Club, as the Gordon Bennett Eliminating Trials in 1904 and 1905. Later in 1905, the Club organised the first Isle of Man Tourist Trophy for racing automobiles, and the first Isle of Man TT for motorcycles was held in 1907. The latter was organised by the Auto-Cycle Club, later the Auto-Cycle Union, a branch of the then-Automobile Club of Great Britain.
Ben (47) and Tom (37) started racing together twenty years ago, with Ben working the handlebars and Tom working as passenger. A sidecar passenger is much more than the name suggests, as they have to position themselves through corners to stabilise the three-wheeled machine. Being moveable ballast at speeds of up to 170mph is not a job for the fainthearted!
The brothers took their first TT victory in 2013 and have since won thirteen, going unbeaten between 2015 and 2023. They have also won four sidecar world championships.
“Sidecar racing, especially around the Isle of Man, is also the epitome of teamwork,” adds Duncan Wiltshire. “Watching Ben and Tom around the TT course you see how they work together to extract the most out of their machine. It’s a spectacular show and I salute their skill and bravery.”
The Segrave Trophy has previously been won by some of Britain’s greatest motorcycles racers, from fellow sidecar racer Steve Webster and TT legend Joey Dunlop to Barry Sheene, Mike Hailwood, John Surtees and Geoff Duke.
Ben can hardly believe he now ranks alongside those greats. “To be put anywhere near those names – I’m so thrilled we’ve been chosen, it means so much,” he says.
“It’s absolutely mind-bending,” adds Tom. “Motorsport and the TT are such wonderful environments and to get an accolade like this is just bizarre.”
During the 2023 TT the Birchalls became the first sidecar pairing to lap the TT course at over 120mph, an incredible speed for a vehicle powered by a 600cc engine and carrying two people.
Following that landmark success younger brother Tom decided to retire from the sport, happy with his record and feeling that he had rolled the dice enough.
“I was always dead honest with myself,” says Tom. “Every year I’d ask myself, are you ready to commit to this? And I’d always said, yes. But after last year’s TT I asked myself and I couldn’t say it.”
Achieving the first 120mph sidecar lap was the perfect time to make the decision.
“The final two laps of that race were the most sublime, surreal experience I’ve ever had – doing that speed, getting cheered on in the sunshine,” adds Tom. “We pulled into the winner’s enclosure and I just thought, this is it, this is as good as it’ll ever get and it just felt like the right time. I’ve got good memories and I’m glad it happened, not sad that it’s stopped.”
At this year’s TT Tom was replaced by Frenchman Kevin Rousseau who helped Ben to a second-place finish in the second sidecar TT, when rider and passenger were still gelling with each other and their LCR Honda outfit.
About the Segrave Trophy
The Segrave Trophy is named after British pilot and pre-war racing driver Sir Henry Segrave – a man who pushed himself and his machines to the limit in the pursuit of ultimate speed. He was the first man to hold both land and water speed records, although the latter cost him his life in 1930. With such drive and determination in mind, the Trophy is awarded for ‘outstanding skill, courage and initiative on land, water and in the air – the Spirit of Adventure’.
The first recipient of the Segrave Trophy was Air Commodore Sir Charles Kingsford Smith, for his transatlantic and England to Australia flights in 1930. Previous holders of the trophy have included Amy Johnson CBE (1932), Sir Malcolm Campbell (1933 and 1939), Bruce McLaren (1969), Sir Jackie Stewart (1973 and 1999) and Sir Frank Williams (1992). The Trophy is awarded only if the Segrave Nominations Committee feels there is a suitable recipient that meets its criteria each year.
At this year’s TT Tom was replaced by Frenchman Kevin Rousseau who helped Ben to a second-place finish in the second sidecar TT, when rider and passenger were still gelling with each other and their LCR Honda outfit.
About the Segrave Trophy
The Segrave Trophy is named after British pilot and pre-war racing driver Sir Henry Segrave – a man who pushed himself and his machines to the limit in the pursuit of ultimate speed. He was the first man to hold both land and water speed records, although the latter cost him his life in 1930. With such drive and determination in mind, the Trophy is awarded for ‘outstanding skill, courage and initiative on land, water and in the air – the Spirit of Adventure’.
The first recipient of the Segrave Trophy was Air Commodore Sir Charles Kingsford Smith, for his transatlantic and England to Australia flights in 1930. Previous holders of the trophy have included Amy Johnson CBE (1932), Sir Malcolm Campbell (1933 and 1939), Bruce McLaren (1969), Sir Jackie Stewart (1973 and 1999) and Sir Frank Williams (1992). The Trophy is awarded only if the Segrave Nominations Committee feels there is a suitable recipient that meets its criteria each year.
The Royal Automobile Club
The Royal Automobile Club was founded in 1897 and its distinguished history mirrors that of motoring itself. In 1907 the Club was awarded its Royal title by King Edward VII, sealing its status as Britain’s oldest and most influential motoring organisation.
The Club’s early years were focused on promoting the motor car and its place in society, which developed into motoring events such as the 1000 Mile Trial, first held in 1900. In 1905, the Club held the first Tourist Trophy, which remains the oldest continuously competed-for motorsport event. The Club promoted the first pre-war and post-war Grands Prix at Brooklands in 1926 and Silverstone in 1948 respectively, while continuing to campaign for the rights of the motorist, including introducing the first driving licences.
Today, the Club continues to develop and support automobilism through representation on the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) and RAC Foundation while promoting its own motoring events including London Motor Week each October, which culminates in the RM Sotheby’s London to Brighton Veteran Car Run.
The Royal Automobile Club awards a series of historic trophies and medals celebrating motoring achievements. These include the Segrave Trophy, the Tourist Trophy, the Dewar Trophy, the Simms Medal, the Torrens Trophy and the Diamond Jubilee Trophy.
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Indian Motorcycle came ready to entertain with the big-bore thrills of the Challenger RR and sideways flat track action of the FTR750 at the prestigious Goodwood Festival of Speed last weekend as legendary racer Jeremy McWilliams piloted the King of the Baggers racer and Brandon Robinson brought his American Flat Track expertise over from the US.
Rubbing shoulders with the greatest riders, drivers and vehicles from all forms of motorsport, the Indian Challenger RR offered festival goers a unique chance to witness the thundering sounds of the King of the Baggers racer as Jeremy McWilliams smoked the Challenger RR rear tyre during full throttle rolling burnouts on the famous Goodwood hill. And it wasn’t just the crowds that were impressed as famous names from the history of motorcycle racing gathered around the Challenger RR at the start line to ask McWilliams what it was like to ride and race.
“There’s not many, if any, events like this anywhere in the world,” said McWilliams. “Seeing these baggers racing on YouTube is one thing, but seeing and hearing them up close is something else, so it was great to put on a show for the Goodwood crowds with the Challenger RR. I think we’ve really surprised a lot of people with the sound and performance of the bike.”
Offering collectors the chance to own a piece of history, just 29 Challenger RR customer bikes were created to celebrate the 2022 King of the Baggers crown. Built to the identical specification and setup as Tyler O’Hara’s #29 championship-winning bike, interested collectors should contact their Indian Motorcycle dealer as soon as possible to secure the last couple of bikes available to purchase.
Totally dominant in American Flat Track Racing, the Indian FTR750 hit the Goodwood hill in the capable hands of Brandon Robinson who has amassed nine wins and 23 podiums over the course of the last five seasons and is currently third in the 2024 SuperTwins standings aboard his Mission Foods Roof Systems FTR750.
Stepping in for Wrecking Crew rider and nine times American Flat Track SuperTwins champion, Jared Mees, who was unable to make the journey at the last minute, the chance for Robinson to be part of the famous UK celebration of motorsport culture that is the Goodwood Festival of Speed was a truly unique experience.
“Goodwood Festival, what’s not the love? This place is insane,” said Robinson. “I didn’t really know what to expect. I’ve always heard good things about it, but then to be here, experience it and ride up the hill with all the nostalgia, the famous riders, drivers, and all the different machines that have been so influential in motorsports is incredible. To be a small little part of that is truly a blessing and I’m stoked to be able to ride the Indian FTR750 here. It’s just my favourite race bike from the last five or six years, it’s got so many wins, and it means a lot to be able to showcase that for our sport in front of all the people here. This place is nuts. I’ve never seen so many people in one place for a motorsport event in my life.”
With seven consecutive American Flat Track SuperTwins Championships since Indian Motorcycle Racing returned to the series with the clean-sheet design, the FTR750 is the most sought-after ride in the flat track world due to its combination of a high-performance 750cc V-Twin engine and ultra-light steel frame that were developed in-house by Indian Motorcycle Racing.
For more information on Indian Motorcycle visit IndianMotorcycle.eu and follow along on Facebook and Instagram.
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The National Motorcycle Museum, in partnership with the Norton Owners Club (NOC), is thrilled to invite motorcycle enthusiasts to their ‘A Whole Lotta Torque About Norton’ Day on Saturday, September 28, 2024.
This event celebrates the rich heritage of Norton motorcycles, featuring talks, demonstrations, and exclusive museum access, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Event Highlights:
• Special Concession: NOC members enjoy entry to visit the Museum collection of over 1,000 British bikes, for only £5 (usually £15).
• Expert-Led Talks: o John Naish: "Norton, Worst Brand in the World? A Look Through Its Press History"
Ashley Cutler: "Inside Norton Engineering"
Brian Gillen: "What’s the latest from the Norton Factory"
Alan Cathcart (Keynote Speaker): "The History of the John Player Nortons"
• Fire Up of Nortons: Experience the thunderous roar of classic and modern Norton motorcycles.
• Ample Access: Free parking (for cars and motorcycles) is available for all attendees.
Join us at the National Motorcycle Museum for an unforgettable celebration of Norton motorcycles, organised in conjunction with the Norton Owners Club. Whether you’re a long-time enthusiast or new to the world of motorcycles, ‘A Whole Lotta Torque About Norton’ Day promises to be an informative and exciting event.
For more details about the event, please visit the official event page at Norton Owners Club Events.
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The famous event, held at Stafford County Showground, over the 12-13th October 2024 is the number one classic motorcycling event in the world. With thousands of bikes on display, live stunts, the famous Bonhams auction and World Champions Carl Fogarty and Frankie Chili as star guests - the show attracts thousands of visitors from across Europe.
"We are incredibly excited to partner with Planet Rock for this year's October Stafford Show," said Nigel Hole, Event Director, "Their dedication to classic rock and its culture aligns perfectly with our passion for classic motorcycles. We look forward to bringing their listeners closer to the action at the show and sharing the excitement of it with them."
Planet Rock, the UK’s leading classic rock radio station, is renowned for its passion for music and its dedicated community of listeners. As the official media partner, Planet Rock will bring its unique energy and enthusiasm to the show, providing exclusive coverage, interviews and promotions, plus behind-the-scene guest content to its audience.
Planet Rock's Head of Marketing, Jon Norman said: "Bikes and Rock music go hand in hand, so to be media partner to “The Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show, sponsored by Carole Nash, is a perfect partnership.”
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A major star of the show is the magnificent steam section, which is packed with 30 miniature steam engines, 70 stationary engines and 60 full-size steam engines of all descriptions. For many visitors, seeing the fabulous line-up of showmans’ engines, with their gleaming, twisted brass, really is a highlight. The ‘Demonstration Arena’ puts the mighty machines to the test, and there’s even the opportunity to drive one. Also, don’t miss the grand parade of miniature steam in the Alec Tanner arena, and be sure to check out the steamrollers in action.
Every mode of vintage transport is represented, and in motion – from a huge display of heavy haulage commercial and industrial trucks, mixed with classic plant and machinery, to more than 160 military machines, American auto trucks and ex-emergency services vehicles. You might even get a bit wet from the fire-tender demonstrations!
The tractor display is second to none, with many clubs choosing South Cerney as their national event. The display is filled with more than 200 tractors, showcasing a wonderful selection of agricultural machinery.
But the event isn’t just about transport…
The Animal and Countryside Arena – From falconry displays, ferret racing, rare breeds, shire horses and horse-logging to beehive-making – it’s all here among the rural displays and educational demonstrations. The popular fun dog show will make its return each day, with all money raised going to Teckels animal shelter – and with 2024 being the International Year of Camelids, ‘Camels through the Ages’ will be making its event debut. This entertaining show features fabulous costumes and informative commentary, to provide an insight into the long history of camel use and culture.
Kids of all ages will love it too – Don’t forget the vintage fairground attractions, some of which are powered by the steam engines. Take a ride on the steam-driven ‘gallopers’, Waltzers or The Yachts – the white-knuckle ride of the 1920s. Drive on the dodgems, see the fair from the air on the Carnival Big Wheel, or have a go on the traditional penny arcade games. You can take a sedate ride on the beautiful Carousel while listening to the fairground organs playing melodies from yesteryear, or board a 10¼in scale steam locomotive or ‘Chuffy the train’ for a passenger ride. Professor Collywobbles returns with his traditional Punch and Judy Show, and the model tent is a ‘must do’. Step into the world of miniature engineering with its models and diorama displays. Making their debut will be The UK Association of Circus Model Builders.
NEW FOR 2024: Swinging you back in time - Be sure to visit the new FREE vintage entertainment tent, featuring live swing music, lindy hop dancing, hair demonstrations by Vintage Victory Roller, retro fashion show, an introduction to Burlesque to dance lessons with ‘Just Jive’ Swindon. Why not dress up in your vintage finery and enter the ‘Best Dressed’ competition? Guest musicians include one of the premier Big Bands in the South West: The Midwest Big Band. This 18-piece Big Band has within its ranks some of the very best local talent – including professional conductor Bob Cutting (ex-Herb Miller band) – and will perform music from Glenn Miller, Benny Goodman, Count Basie, Duke Ellington and golden tracks from the legends of swing.
Massive trade stand zone - Featuring more than 100 curiosity stalls and an autojumble to rummage around, it’s a great opportunity to find a bargain. Or visit the huge craft marquee housing a range of rural crafts and artisan small stalls. Meet the experts and learn about the skills and pastimes that have survived for generations and continue to thrive today.
Food & drink – There are plenty of food and drink ‘pit stops’ across the showground. A firm favourite is the We’ll Meet Again Tea Room, a vintage-themed tearoom set in the 1940s with vintage crockery, props and live music from the fabulous vintage performer Miss Em. It’s a great place to soak up the atmosphere and relax with a cuppa and delicious homemade cake.
There's also the ever-popular Beer Tent located near the vintage fairground featuring live music throughout the weekend. We are delighted to welcome back the Cricklade Brass Band. The band was formed in 1887, and are the oldest established, continuously active association in Cricklade. Often assumed to be a professional band, their team of young-at-heart musicians prefer to concentrate on being an up-to-date, entertaining community brass big band playing a set list of well-known tunes. The Cricklade Brass Band can be seen Saturday and Sunday in the Beer Tent.
FREE vintage bus rides – These operate around the perimeter of the show site, and to and from Cirencester town centre and Kemble railway station to the showground. The vintage bus service connects with selected First Great Western trains including Stroud, Gloucester and Cheltenham. Please check the timetable on the website.
Steam trailer tractor rides - operated by Gloucestershire Fire & Rescue to help raise funds for the Firefighters Charity. The charity provides mental, physical, and social needs of all serving and retired members of the UK's fire family. Members of the local service will be on hand with a fire engine too.
The steam trailer tractor rides are by donation and are another way in which the Gloucestershire Vintage & Country Extravaganza supports charities, preservation projects and community initiatives.
For further information, please visit: www.glosvintageextravaganza.co.uk
Gloucestershire Vintage & Country Fair Extravaganza
Dates: Friday 2 to Sunday 4 August 2024
Venue: South Cerney Airfield, Northmoor Lane, South Cerney, GL7 5QD
Times: 10.00am until 5.00pm
Ticket Prices
Advance tickets available until Thursday 1 August.
Visit: www.glosvintageextravaganza.co.uk
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