By Ultra Lightweight Race 2 runner-up in 2019, the RAF’s Rad Hughes is next to take part in Road Racing News rising in popularity Manx GP Top 6 series.
A top thirty finisher at the TT and Classic TT Races, former Junior Support class winner at the Southern 100, his answers to the Mountain Course themed set of questions are as follows:
Q1: When you first competed at the Manx, what was your first initial thought of the Mountain Course?
“First night of practice I didn’t really know where I was going so was riding like on a public road, just being able to use both sides. Even rolled off the throttle at the 30 mph sign before Ballagarey before realising I didn’t have to.”
Q2: Most memorable Manx GP bike?
“Have to be my ZXR400 (Kawasaki). A £1200 eBay special. Had no end of problems last year. Was thinking of pulling the entry and getting the race entry fee back.
First race we led till losing a foot peg at Quarter Bridge, if anyone has it can they pop it back, still running off pegs. The second race no one thought it would complete three laps never mind end up on the podium in 2nd place.
That bikes pretty special in the journey it took to get there, involving some diamond geezers who’s family’s have been torn apart through racing helping out with parts. In fact the whole Manx 2019 was a bit of a blag from start to finish.”
Q3: Most treasured memory from the Manx?
“Can’t really pick one moment. Had so many laughs there both on and off the track. The podium was a highlight for everyone involved but I just think I messed up not being better prepared to push on a bit more.”
Q4: Is there one specific Manx GP competitor that you look up to?
“You’ve got to respect everyone out there who’s giving it a go. Picking one I would have to say Mark Castle for his involvement in the newcomers weekend, back when it wasn’t compulsory. So passionate and knowledgeable about the event, always had time to show an interest in how you were getting on.”
Photo by Nick Wheeler
Q5: Describe the Manx GP in one word?
“Expensive”
Q6: Finally, if you could race one machine from any series, championship around the Mountain Course, what would it be?
“Clive Padgett’s YZR 500 (Yamaha), waiting by my phone for the call.”
Words by Stevie Rial
