TT's centenary schedule unveiled

The TT Races were first held in 1907

The dates have been announced for the Isle of Man's TT races in 2007 - the competition's centenary year.

Practice racing will begin on Saturday 26 May, with some of the times changed from previous years.

The famous Superbike race will take place exactly a week later. Racing will end with the Senior race on 8 June.

David Cretney MHK said: "We have consulted with the competitors and taken their comments on board in devising this year's calendar."

The race schedule kicks off with the six-lap Superbike followed by the Sidecar A Race on the same day.

The four-lap Superstock race will be on Monday 4 June, the Junior Supersport Race for 600cc machines will be on Wednesday, together with the Sidecar B race.

Lap of honour

Mr Cretney, who is minister for tourism and leisure, said: "We have moved the Sidecar A Race back to the first Saturday to give those competitors extra time to work on their machines after their first race.

"By moving the practice on Thursday to the evening we are able to give the riders an extra 15 minutes practice time, as well as alleviating traffic congestion in Douglas."

To commemorate the TT's 100th anniversary machines from that era will ride one lap around the original St Johns circuit.

There will also be a centenary "lap of honour" with machines from the past 100 years.

Mr Cretney added: "We have been planning the centenary activity for a long time and believe that the programme that we are putting together will appeal to race fans and riders worldwide.

"We believe that we have put together a fitting tribute to the birthplace of motor sport and look forward to welcoming our guests from all over the world."