[Jeff Higgins]

That has been a concern, mjohnson. There have been efforts to put an end to the TT for decades. Send it the way of the Targa Florio, the Monte Carlo Rallye, and other such events. "Outdated", "barbaric", a "blood sport" and all of that.

Well, those who would like to put an end to it have nothing to do with it. Why they would even care is beyond me. Actually, I think we all know why - there are just those sorts among us. Overly interested in other's well being. At least that's their cover story... it really boils down to an innate desire to tell others what they can and cannot do.

Fortunately, the Isle of Man is in a unique position. Many believe they are a part of the U.K. They are not. They never have been. It never joined the European Union either. The Island is a self-governing British Crown Dependency. So are Jersey and Guernsey in the Channel Islands. Each has its own parliament, government, currency, and laws. Interestingly, the IOM accepts British pounds, but not the other way around.

What this means is that the IOM governs itself. They are not beholden to anyone else. They are fiercely independent, loathe to accept any direction, even any suggestion, from the U.K. or anyone else.

The TT is deeply rooted in their heritage. That, and it pretty much pays for everything else on the island, along with the Manx TT in the fall (the vintage bike equivalent). They are proud of their TT and the defiance which it represents. They see themselves as unique in this modern world and, quite frankly, they are. In a very refreshing way.