England's Calendar of Events | June
Isle of Mann TT Races
Through June 6, 2008
TT Grandstand
Douglas, England
The infamous Isle of Man Tourist Trophy Motorcycle Races have come a long way from their humble roots, when Edwardian daredevils raced tons of metal around farmers' tracks. Today the island braces itself as bike enthusiasts from all over the world descend for two weeks of all things motorcycle-related. Practices start a few days before the actual race for anyone keen to watch.
Since the first race in 1907, this event has been touted as the motorcyclist's Mecca. Early races were contested over a shorter course and won at average speeds of around 36mph. In 1911 the race moved to the present Mountain Circuit. The event flourished, and for a time the British Grand Prix was held on the course, until it was deemed too dangerous in the 1970s. This did not deter the TT riders, and the Mountain Course remains the ultimate challenge for motorcyclists.
Today the roads are closed - including many which run past people's houses so they can't get in or out during practices and races - as the bikes take to the asphalt. During the event, the island comes alive with parties, stalls, rock concerts and nightclub events. The 37.7 mile (62.8km) course tours the whole island and fans even have the opportunity to ride the route themselves. Caution is advised as speeds of 190mph are reached in the actual races, and broken bones and other serious injuries are par for the course.
Spectators should seek out the Creg ny Baa, which offers strategic views of the racers speeding down the mountain and riding towards the finish line at Bray Hill.
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Strathmiglo Highland Games
King George V Playing Fields
June 2008
A long-lasting Scottish tradition, Highland Games are a feature of every main Scottish settlement. One of the earliest in the annual calendar is at Strathmiglo, nestling under the Lomond Hills on the River Eden, in Fife. Held on the town's George V Playing Fields, the traditional "heavy" games join the Scottish dancing and piping in a day of fierce competition.
The "heavy" events are those that require large men in tartans to throw heavy items as far as they can: shot-putting, hammer-throwing and - the most famous of Highland sports - caber-tossing. For the energetic there is also a cycle race and - team-wise - a tug o' war.
Less (but only slightly) energetic are the solo and massed pipers, as well as toe-tapping Scottish dancing, which goes to show that it's not just a battle of the muscles!
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British Lawn Mower Racing Championships
Hamstreet
June 7-8, 2008
The Hamstreet Country Fayre and Festival of Transport hosts the latest rounds of the British Lawn Mower Racing Championships. Spectators can watch mowers with names like Weedy Gonzales and the Turfinator screeching around at speeds of up to 60mph.
It all started in 1973 when Irishman Jim Gavin, disillusioned with the increasing costs of motorsport, created lawnmower racing as a cheaper form of racing, accessible to all. The British Lawn Mower Racing Association now boasts a British Grand Prix, World Championships and a grueling 12-hour Endurance Race that takes place through the night.
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