TT2006 - Isle of Man

The 2006TT was a sun-drenched week for all the Ducatisti who gathered to worship at the alter of Mona. We started the club's activities as usual on Mad Sunday at Glen Maye, where we had a cornucopia of outstanding Dukes turn up to bask in the sunshine.

This one started to melt in the heat.

Early arrivals included Troy Bayliss and a mate on Shakey's old bike.

Soon joined by Bob Hartman on Smarty's bike

There was a twin that thought it was a four...

...and a single that really was a twin. Interesting Tricati would have got best special award if we still gave one...

...but we don't, so the best bevel award went to a proper single, Allan Simpson's 350 Vento.

Competition for the best two-valve was close..

...but Brendan Byrne's 900 SS shaded it. . Nothing at all to do with him also being a Chelsea supporter. Come on you Blues!

Jonno also took a break to present Mike Humphreys with the best 4-valve award for his immaculate and well-used 916, then went back to Regalia duties.

	Team DOCGB took a couple of days off, watched some racing, the stunt show and Steve Colley at Port Erin, and climbed the lookout tower on the headland. After that we needed some refreshment.

Team DOC get ready for departure from Spaggy's apartment at Port Erin.

And so we moved on once again to Old Laxey, and the DOC Barbecue at the Shore Hotel on Tuesday.

Retro meets Newtro as Baines 900SS and Capirossi Rep get aquainted at Laxey...

...then a real 70s bevel joined in.

Matt's custom clocks amused.

The beer and burgers refreshed the Ducatisti...

..amongst whom were a visiting party of 20+ American dealers and Duke fans, who were visiting the TT for the first time...

...and we did our best to foster Anglo-American relations deep into the evening.

So that was about it for 2006. Except for Keith wowing the departing throngs on the quayside with his immaculate collection of what he says is official Ducati TT clothing (we think not!). And when you next see him, ask him if he still needs a man to start it for him!

Roll on the 2007 Centenary. We will be there. Bigger, Better and Louder. Why not book it now?