[J.C.]

Every year The Isle of Man hosts the TT (Tourist Trophy) races. These are motorcycle races around an incredibly dangerous road circuit. They are truly exciting races but each year a new debate opens about the number of deaths involving both riders and spectators. I would guess that the average number of deaths each year is about 3-5 people during the two weeks with 3 just yesterday. A couple of decades ago the famous world champion Agostini vowed never to race there again because of the it's danger.
Most of my family live on this beautiful Island and when I return in a few weeks I know that this will all be debated again. There are so many angles to argue and usually I end up thinking that it isn't worth these spectator deaths, but am always reminded that it brings in a massive tourist trade.
I am interested to know what members think about a sport that involves such incredibly high danger. Is it a risk too far?

Edit; I just found an article from Telegraph.co.uk



Three killed in Isle of Man TT accident

By David Fern
Last Updated: 2:16am BST 09/06/2007

A motorcyclist and two spectators died in a horrific crash yesterday during the closing stages of the final race in the Isle of Man TT Centenary Racing Festival.
The incident happened on the Snaefell section of the 37.73-mile Mountain Course at a point known as the 26th milestone, locally called Joey's.
It is understood that the rider lost control of his machine, which ploughed into a group of people who were watching the Senior race.
The rider was named last night as Mark Ramsbotham, 24, from Norfolk. He died at the scene, becoming the 224th competitor to be killed in the history of the event. A spectator died at the scene and another died later in hospital.
Race officials scrambled two rescue helicopters to the event. The first took two casualties to Nobles Hospital in Douglas and this was followed by a second, which transferred another person. Race organisers have not named the spectators who were killed while they contact next of kin.
The organisers, the Manx Motorcycle Club Ltd, have launched an investigation into the crash together with the coroner of inquests.
They issued a statement saying: "We wish to extend our sympathy to the families and friends involved."
The incident led to the delay of the Parade of Champions, which went ahead later in the afternoon, but, as the news reached the paddock, celebrations of the victory by John McGuinness, at race and lap record speeds, was muted.
He had already received his trophy and enjoyed the spoils of victory, his 13th on the island, before news reached the competitors.