Startline - Road Racing podcast

In this episode, we’re joined by Ryan Whitehall - a rider whose determination and pace mark him out as one to watch. From the Isle of Wight and racing under WR Racing, Ryan has steadily built his road racing career since 2018. After overcoming a serious crash in 2021, he’s returned stronger, with standout performances across the roads scene. 2025 proved a breakthrough year, with Ryan securing his first Manx Grand Prix podium and joining the Tommy Club with a 120.58 mph lap. And he is now preparing for his biggest step yet - his first ever Isle of Man TT in 2026. You can find Ryan's YouTube channel here, and find his Facebook page here and Instagram racing page here.  And if you're in the Omagh area and need a road sweeper - check out Ryno Sweep. The Startline podcast is brought to you in partnership with the Manx Motorcycle Club, the Promoter and Rights holder for the Manx Grand Prix. Startline is on Facebook and Instagram, so please give the pages a follow and keep up to date with the latest episodes and see some extra content. And if you'd like to be part of the podcast, you can email beth@startline.im 

On the podcast today, Beth is with TT 2026 newcomer Rhys Stevenson. At just 20 years old, Rhys has already made a serious impression in British Championship racing since making his debut in 2021, establishing himself as one of the sport’s most exciting young talents. He races under the banner of his family-run team, Rocket Racing - and it really is a true family effort, with his three younger brothers also competing, and Mum Tracey and Dad Mark playing a central role in keeping everything moving both on and off the track. When they were over on the Isle of Man to do some laps, Rhys, Mark, and team member Eddie Allen caught up with Beth to talk about how preparations are going ahead of the TT debut. You can follow Rhys on Facebook and Instagram, and you can find the Rocket Racing Page on Facebook here.   The Startline podcast is brought to you in partnership with the Manx Motorcycle Club, the Promoter and Rights holder for the Manx Grand Prix. Startline is on Facebook and Instagram, so please give the pages a follow and keep up to date with the latest episodes. And if you'd like to be part of the podcast, you can email me - it's beth@startline.im     

In this episode, we meet the team without whom racing on the Isle of Man simply wouldn’t happen - the Scrutineers. They’re the quiet guardians of the sport. The people behind the scenes who check every machine, every detail, and every rider before a wheel turns - whether that’s on the Mountain Course, the Billown Course, or out in the dirt at off-road events. For those new to racing, scrutineering can feel like a daunting hurdle. But as you’ll hear, this is a team driven by one goal: to help riders get to the start line safely and give them the best possible chance to live out their racing dream. Beth chats with some of the key figures on the Island: Trevor Denning, Chief Technical Officer for the TT and Manx Grand Prix; Dave Redmayne, Chief Technical Officer for the Pre-TT and Southern 100, and Deputy for the TT and MGP; Grant Howard, Deputy Technical Officer for Pre-TT and Southern 100 and Chief for off-road events and Jo Warriner, Chief Technical Officer for the Andreas Racing Association and Deputy across the TT, MGP, Pre-TT and Southern 100. And if you would like to be part of this amazing group of people, they would love to hear from you. You can find them on Facebook here, or when there's a meeting at Jurby, pop up and have a chat. The Startline podcast is brought to you in partnership with the Manx Motorcycle Club, the Promoter and Rights holder for the Manx Grand Prix. Startline is on Facebook and Instagram, so please give the pages a follow and keep up to date with the latest episodes. And if you'd like to be part of the podcast, you can email me - it's beth@startline.im 

In this episode of Startline we are with Gary Partridge from Happy Dog Image Solutions about his extraordinary career in sidecar racing - from early mishaps and European adventures to TT triumphs and overcoming injury. Along the way this episode explores the camaraderie, risks and resilience of road racing both on the Isle of Man and further afield. You can get in touch with Gary at Happy Dog on their website here or on Facebook. Also - keep an eye out for news on the official 2026 Manx Grand Prix merchandise. We also catch up in this episode with Thomas 'Uccio' Altendorfer a month on from his disappointment at not making the first MGP newcomers' weekend because of the weather in Austria. You can follow Thomas on Instagram. The Startline podcast is brought to you in partnership with the Manx Motorcycle Club, the Promoter and Rights holder for the Manx Grand Prix. Startline is on Facebook and Instagram, so please give the pages a follow and keep up to date with the latest episodes. And if you'd like to be part of the podcast, you can email me - it's beth@startline.im     

In this episode of Startline, brought to you by the Manx Motor Cycle Club, we hear another inspiring story of a racing dream becoming reality. Sidecar passenger Matthew Rostron grew up surrounded by the sport, inspired by his grandad who raced sidecars at the TT. Through determination, hard work, and the support of those around him, Matthew has carved out his own place in road racing and will be back on the Mountain Course again this year. And as well as competing in the sidecar class at the TT, he will take on the Classic TT on two wheels, his first solo venture around the Mountain Course. Matthew is on Facebook and Instagram, you can also follow his solo progress with the Green Ant Racing Team and his sidecar racing with Real Road Racing. In this episode, we also head to Jurby to meet Gary Partridge, the man behind Happy Dog Image Solutions, a business that is a very familiar name in racing both on the Isle of Man and further afield. Known for producing the official Manx Grand Prix merchandise, Gary explains the story behind the Happy Dog name and introduces the team...now including a cat...who help keep the operation running. The Startline podcast is brought to you in partnership with the Manx Motorcycle Club, the Promoter and Rights holder for the Manx Grand Prix. Startline is on Facebook and Instagram, so please give the pages a follow and keep up to date with the latest episodes. And if you'd like to be part of the podcast, you can email me - it's beth@startline.im     

In this episode, Beth chats with TT rider Jack Fowler about his road racing journey so far. Since starting out at the Manx Grand Prix in 2018, Jack has steadily built his experience on the Mountain Course, moving to the TT a couple of years ago. And all this while balancing racing with family life and a full-time role in motorcycle product development. In this conversation, Jack shares what it’s really like to prepare for the TT, from the mental focus required at high speed, to the challenges of race week, sponsorship, and life beyond the paddock. He also reflects on the importance of enjoying the experience, the support behind every rider, and his personal goals for the season ahead. Oh and we also talk air frying... You can follow Jack on social media - his Facebook page is here, he's also on Instagram and if you'd like to get in touch with him, you can email jfow1@hotmail.co.uk The Startline podcast is brought to you in partnership with the Manx Motorcycle Club, the Promoter and Rights holder for the Manx Grand Prix. Startline is on Facebook and Instagram, so please give the pages a follow and keep up to date with the latest episodes. And if you'd like to be part of the podcast, you can email me - it's beth@startline.im   

Today we explore the world of sidecar racing on the Isle of Man with two of the sport’s standout crews. TT winner Tim Reeves is joined by his new passenger, Melanie Farnier.They open up about forming a fresh partnership, the trust it demands, and the relentless physical and mental pressures of competing at the highest level. Alongside them, Todd Ellis and Emmanuelle Clément share their own journey through one of road racing’s most demanding disciplines. From securing vital sponsorship and managing the brutal demands of the sport, to the tight-knit community that keeps competitors coming back year after year. For anyone thinking about sidecar racing, Tim and Todd say Steve's Sidecar Place is a great place to start and you can find a link here. Also In this episode we catch up with the fastest German ever around the Mountain Course, David Datzer, who returns to fitness for 2026 after injury forced him out last season. He tells us what his dream is and how it will be marked with a new tattoo when it happens. You can follow David on Facebook here and Instagram here.   Finally we meet some of the newcomers taking on the 2026 Manx Grand Prix, fresh from their very first Newcomers’ Weekend here on the Island. The Startline podcast is brought to you in partnership with the Manx Motorcycle Club, the Promoter and Rights holder for the Manx Grand Prix. Startline is on Facebook and Instagram, so please give the pages a follow and keep up to date with the latest episodes. And if you'd like to be part of the podcast, you can email me - it's beth@startline.im 

In this episode, Beth catches up with Mike Bibby, team owner of MBR Motorsports and one his riders Roger Wibberley. They take us inside the world of road racing - from the early days of turning up with a van and a few mates, to the high-pressure, highly coordinated team effort the sport demands today. Mike, a former racer himself, knows more than anyone that it takes a team to get to any start line. Mike and Rodger talk honestly about the emotional rollercoaster of racing, the growing importance of sponsorship and social media, and why preparation isn’t just helpful - it’s everything. You can find MBR Motorsports on Facebook here and Rodger's page is here. The Startline podcast is brought to you in partnership with the Manx Motorcycle Club, the Promoter and Rights holder for the Manx Grand Prix. Startline is on Facebook and Instagram, so please give the pages a follow and keep up to date with the latest episodes. And if you'd like to be part of the podcast, you can email me - it's beth@startline.im     

In this episode, we sit down with Illiam Quayle, one of the Island’s most exciting young racing talents, as he talks openly about his journey into the sport and his preparations for being a newcomer at this year’s Manx Grand Prix. Illiam reflects on what it’s really like growing up in a racing family and the unique pressures that come with being the son of a road racing legend. He shares his own experiences on the track, the importance of having the right team around him, and how he balances an all-consuming passion for racing with the everyday realities of life. We also explore the physical and mental preparation required to compete at this level, how social media now plays a key role in building a racing career, and what drives Illiam to keep pushing forward in such a demanding sport. It’s an honest and thoughtful conversation with a young rider very much carving his own path and of course we hear about the fact he will make his Mountain Course debut this year with Team ILR. You can follow Illiam on Facebook and Instagram. There's also some very exciting news: The Startline podcast is now in partnership with the Manx Motorcycle Club, the Promoter and Rights holder for the Manx Grand Prix. When it first started back in October 2025, the aim for Startline was to give road racers aiming to come to the Isle of Man a space to tell their story and now working with the MMC, we will be able to explore even more of that journey and I'm so grateful for their support. Startline is on Facebook and Instagram, so please give the pages a follow and keep up to date with the latest episodes. And if you'd like to be part of the podcast, you can email me - it's beth@startline.im   

In this episode, David McArthur shares the story of a racing journey that began far from the grid. Growing up riding bikes in the Scottish Highlands, his early experiences were shaped by family influence - particularly his father’s passion for motorcycles - and a love of riding that developed long before competition entered the picture. David reflects on his progression through different disciplines, from trials riding to enduro and eventually road racing. Along the way, he discusses the realities of building a racing career, including the importance of community support, sponsorship, and the people behind the scenes who make it possible. Looking to the future, David talks about his ambitions in the sport and offers thoughtful advice to newcomers, drawing on the lessons learned throughout his journey and the value of being part of a supportive racing community. You can follow David on Facebook here and Instagram here. We also hear from Lee Stanaway in this episode, and you can find his Facebook here. If you'd like to be part of the podcast, you can email beth@startline.im

In today’s episode, we are there as the Women Riders World Relay rolls into the Isle of Man. 🌍🏍️ This powerful global initiative has already connected more than 20,000 women riders across 102 countries, all with one shared mission: to challenge expectations and reshape what the world thinks a woman motorcycle rider looks like. Using a dedicated app, the relay passes a digital baton from rider to rider, carrying stories, solidarity and momentum as it travels around the globe. Beth speaks with Lisa Brain, the Women Riders World Relay Ambassador for the Isle of Man, alongside other riders and guests who gathered at Isle of Man Motorcycles for the event. The relay’s visit was supported by Open Face Racer and RideSafe.im, with the day captured beautifully by John from Bikersmag.co.uk and Emily Ashworth Photography. We also catch up again with George Anderson after he heard the decision about Manx Grand Prix 2026 and Shaun Anderson, MGP winner and TT racer, offers some insights about taking on the Mountain Course.  If you'd like to get in touch with Beth, you can email beth@startline.im and follow the podcast on social media.

In this conversation, Johnny Stewart reflects on his journey from a small-town upbringing in Galashiels, Scotland, to life as a motorcycle racer. He discusses his experiences competing at the Manx Grand Prix, the realities of sponsorship, and the financial challenges that come with the sport. Throughout, Johnny highlights the importance of enjoying racing, shares the emotional intensity of sitting on the start line, and offers thoughtful advice for those who'll be doing the MGP for this first time. Oh - and we also find out why Johnny's dad doesn't trust him near the lawnmower... You can follow Johnny on Facebook here and Instagram here. Also in this episode, we find hear from some previous Startline guests about whether or not they'll be at Manx Grand Prix 2026. If you'd like to get in touch with Beth, you can email beth@startline.im and follow the podcast on social media.  

In this episode, Roddy Taylor takes us through a life shaped by motorcycle racing - from the early family influences that first put him on two wheels, to the moments that tested his resolve and pulled him away from the sport altogether. He speaks openly about loss, perspective, and what it really takes to find your way back to racing after stepping aside. Roddy also reflects on the power of the racing community, the importance of mentoring the next generation, and the lessons that only years in the paddock can teach. Now, with his sights set firmly on the Manx Grand Prix start line, he shares what resilience, determination, and belonging truly mean - and why racing still matters. You can follow Roddy on Facebook here and Instagram here - and check out Startline on social media to see the photograph of Dougal who gets a mention too. If you'd like to get in touch with Beth, you can email beth@startline.im    

In this episode, we hear from four riders who all had the Moutain Course in their sights for 2025 - and they have all raced the dream. So what was it like - can you ever really prepare for what the ultimate road racing experience throws at you? Ste Sewell, Blake Kelly, Lee Stanaway and Dale Brew talk us through their experiences, which include forgetting something on the start line, doing something your surgeon probably wouldn't approve of and countless cups of tea. Startline is on Facebook and Instagram too, so please give the pages a follow and keep up to date with the latest episodes. And if you'd like to be part of the podcast, you can email Beth - it's beth@startline.im   

We catch up with Ashley Robson again in this first episode of 2026, as she waits to hear whether or not she'll be at the Manx Grand Prix this year. Alongside her parents, Lee and Hazel, we discuss Ashley's early passion for bikes, the emotional challenges of watching her race, and what it was like when Ash got on the podium in the Pre-TT on the Billown Course in 2025. Looking ahead to the next 12 months, they talk honestly about their hopes for the season ahead and what it truly means, as a family, to stand behind Ashley’s racing career. You can find Ashley on Facebook here and Instagram here. Startline is on Facebook and Instagram too, so please give the pages a follow and keep up to date with the latest episodes. And if you'd like to be part of the podcast, you can email Beth - it's beth@startline.im   

In this episode with Stuart Clotworthy and Stefan Alger, we don't just talk about the Manx Grand Prix - although that does feature. We mainly find out about Stefan's love of pugs and why for Stuart, karaoke is now a no go. Stuart has done the MGP before, thanks in part to Stefan's backing, and now Stefan is aiming to be on the Glencrutchery Road start line himself in 2026. This is a team that doesn't take itself too seriously, but undoubtedly has the experience and the passion to make racing dreams come true. You can follow Stuart on Facebook here and Instagram here. Stefan's Facebook page is here - send photos of pugs. If you'd like to get in touch with me, you can email beth@startline.im and if you're able to follow the Startline Podcast on Facebook and Instagram, that would be amazing. 

In this episode, Israel Gillette, a motorcycle racer originally from Tennessee, tells a powerful story of resilience and reinvention. After stepping away from the sport for years, he reignited his racing career in 2017, driven by an unshakable desire to chase unfinished dreams. Now based in Romania, Israel reflects on the profound influence of his loyal dogs, Daisy, Dandy and now Duke, whose companionship has been a quiet but constant source of strength both on and off the track. His journey has been anything but straightforward. Along the way, Israel has faced deeply personal losses and the pressures of navigating business setbacks, moments that tested his resolve as much as any race ever could. Yet through it all, his focus has never wavered. With his sights firmly set on the Manx Grand Prix, he speaks passionately about what racing represents to him: freedom, self-belief, and the courage to keep moving forward when the odds are stacked against you. Surrounded by a hard-earned support network and fuelled by a renewed sense of purpose, Israel looks to the future with determination and optimism; not just to compete, but to prove that it’s never too late to return stronger, faster, and more focused than ever. You can find Israel's  Moto Mutt International YouTube channel here, his Instagram here and take some time to read his blog. We also hear from MGP rider Harley Rushton in this episode, about what he wishes he's known before taking on the Mountain Course for the first time. You can find Harley on Facebook here and Instagram here and I recorded a Journey to a Dream podcast with Harley which you can find here. If you'd like to get in touch with Beth, you can email beth@startline.im 

In this episode, Andy Herd opens up about his journey into motorcycle racing, from those first formative experiences on two wheels to the realities of juggling racing with family life and work commitments. He speaks candidly about the nerves that still hit before the visor goes down and how he's preparing mentally and physically to hopefully be at Manx Grand Prix 2026. Along the way, Andy reflects on the vital role of community, camaraderie and sponsorship in the racing world, and the friendships that make the paddock feel like a second home. There’s also a wry moment of reflection on how a single missed email had unexpected consequences last year... Throughout the conversation, Andy’s passion for racing is unmistakable, underpinned by the unwavering support of friends, family and sponsors as he continues to chase his goal race the  most demanding roads in the world. You can follow Andy on Facebook here and Instagram here. In this episode, we also hear from MGP rider Andrew Jones about what he wished he'd known before his first MGP.  You can find Andrew's Facebook page here and Instagram here. Please also follow the Startline Podcast on social media and you can contact Beth by emailing beth@startline.im   

In Startline today, we hear an episode of the other podcast that Beth does on Manx Radio Motorsport - Journey to a Dream  This started back in June 2023, with the idea of speaking to riders who had already raced the Mountain Course to find out what it took for them to get there.   In December for the first time, Journey to a Dream was recorded  in front of a live audience at The Queen's pub on Douglas Promenade. Beth was joined by Manx riders, Grant Thomson, Rory Parker and Marcus Simpson. Thank you to Okells for supporting this event and to Lee and Carol Bartram for organising everything. If you'd like to get in touch with Beth, you can email beth@startline.im  Thank you to Hannah McHugh for the photographs on the night. It was all to raise money for Tracey's Pictures who support newcomers every year and you can watch the progamme on Manx Radio's YouTube channel here.  

Bailey Harker is a 24-year-old racer from Spalding, who traces his love of bike racing back to childhood inspiration, recalling the early sparks that set him on the path to the track. Along the way, he speaks candidly about the hurdles he’s faced, the victories that kept him pushing forward, and the relentless drive that fuels his ambition. Balancing working full time with the demands of competitive racing has never been easy, but Bailey explains how discipline - and a healthy dose of passion - keeps him moving. At the heart of it all is the unwavering support of his family and the camaraderie of being part of the Cowton Racing team, both of which ground him as he chases ever bigger goals, including Manx Grand Prix 2026. You can follow Bailey on Facebook and Instagram. You can follow Cowton Racing on their Instagram page here. We also hear from MGP and TT rider Chris Moore in this episode.  You can hear another interview I recorded with Chris and his wife Lorna on Journey to a Dream here. And Chris is also on Facebook and Instagram. Startline is on Facebook and Instagram too, so please give the pages a follow and keep up to date with the latest episodes. And if you'd like to be part of the podcast, you can email Beth - it's beth@startline.im