Midhurst racer Parrett gives thanks for Manx victory

MIDHURST rider Mark Parrett finally finished a race at the Manx Grand Prix '“ and didn't know whether to laugh or cry after it also led to a second career win.

The 41-year-old was scheduled to ride just the Motorsport Merchandise 350 Classic GP Race on the Isle of Man but ended up taking victory in the Okells Brewery Formula Classic Race.

Standing in for Northern Ireland rider Barry Davidson, Parrett was the only rider in the five-strong field to successfully complete the four laps around the iconic 37.73-mile Mountain Course.

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And, despite being the only rider to finish, Parrett, having failed to finish both the classic junior and classic senior races this time last year, did admit his elation at the result.

“It is the first time I have finished for a while and I have got a trophy for coming last – but it was a great race and I am pleased to have won,” said Parrett.

“We had a few problems and I had no brakes for the first lap but it was a great race and the marshals did a wonderful job in helping me out around the course. There was a bit of drizzle for a few miles on and off and I had a few spots on my screen and my visor but it was OK to ride even though it could have been better.”

Parrett now has two Manx Grand Prix wins to his name with his efforts in the Formula Classic Race repeating those in the Senior Race back in 2002.

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And Parrett, who is also a regular at the prestigious Isle of Man TT races, insisted his latest win was equally as good as his first.

“It is another win and it has been a while, I think it is only the third race I have finished since 2002 and I have had a lot of retirements in the classic races,” he added.

“Everyone has worked so hard for it and it was a great race and I am pleased to have finally got a win again around here.”

The 2011 Manx Grand Prix Festival features the Manx Classic and Two Day Trial, The VMCC Rally’s and Festival of Jurby and the Manx Grand Prix Races.

For more information go to www.mgpfestival.com or for more information on visiting the Isle of Man go to www.visitisleofman.com

Charlie Talbot-Smith