News

Isle of Man Steam Packet Company celebrated its 21st year as Title Sponsor of the Southern 100 International Road Races this year, after more than three decades of involvement with the ‘Friendly Races’.

The action-packed meeting has firmly established itself as a reputable event in the motorsport calendar and attracts big names year-on-year, with the 2019 line-up featuring racing heroes Michael Dunlop and Dean Harrison. The latter dominated the circuit with six wins in his six races, including the highly coveted Solo Championship for the third year in a row. In the Sidecar Championship, it was Pete Founds and Jevan Walmsley who took the top spot in dramatic fashion.

First timers and returning fans were treated to exhilarating action from Monday 8th to Thursday 11th July, with close finishes, hair-raising speeds, tight corners and lap and race records broken over the two days.

Alongside its long-standing title sponsorship of the event, in recent years the Steam Packet Company has worked closely with the organisers to help boost attendance and enhance safety. This includes the introduction of a travel discount scheme for marshals and competitors, the carriage of vital safety equipment and course furniture and recently, free-of-charge transport of cladding for the new race control headquarters which was completed earlier this year.

Isle of Man Steam Packet Company Chief Executive Mark Woodward said: ‘We are proud long-term supporters of the Southern 100 International Road Races and have established a great working relationship with the organisers – working together to  help the event continue to grow and attract new visitors. 

‘It’s been another positive year with strong passenger numbers, demonstrating the popularity of the races. The combination of thrilling racing and friendly atmosphere attracts fans from the UK, Ireland and further afield. The Southern 100 is a real asset to the Isle of Man’s visitor economy and we’re delighted to continue our support of this unique event.

‘Hats off to the organisers, riders and teams for another successful year and our thoughts go out to those injured, we hope everyone makes a speedy recovery.’