🏍️ Isle of Man TT: A Dangerous Addiction | Al Jazeera Correspondent
2012 ж. 1 Қар.
4 381 828 Рет қаралды
The Isle of Man TT is described as the world's most dangerous race, a complicated and unforgiving course. Yet every year more and more motorcycle enthusiasts come to this tiny British island to race in the event. Is it some kind of fatal attraction?
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I was a heroin addict for 7 years until...My neighbor made a bet with me. He said he'll show me how to ride his bike and once I knew how to ride it he'd let me borrow it for an hour or two. We were both addicts just for different things, he told me that there's no better feeling than riding a motorcycle and I told him that there's no better feeling than being high and he laughed.. Long story short, I've been clean for a year and bought my first motorcycle and let me tell you that he was 100% right..Rip my friend, you truly don't understand what you did for me and my life..
That's my story, brother, with details different, but similar. - Mike in California.
Good news, everybody. The film has been nominated for Best Single Documentary in the BAFTA Television Awards. Thank you for watching it, thank you for your kind comments. With respect, David
Here 8 years later! hope all is well with you
Hey
@pootle kid I would heavily recommend the space between documentary if you haven't already seen it, it is my favourite TT Doc
Sensational documentary, always wanted to go there in person and the insight you have shown is something I would have never expected
This is probably the best TT Documentary i've ever watched ...... open, honest, informative and (in places) quite sad ..... a real 'insight' into the inner 'processes' that most people overlook !! Can't believe it's taken me 9 years to actually find and watch it ..... but i'm sooooo glad i now have ..... BRILLIANT !!!!! May all those people that feature in this that are sadly no longer with us be looking down with smiles ..... NON of them forgotten and every single one of them loved and admired 💖
As a lifelong motorcyclist 16 to my current 61, worked as a motorcycle courier, clocked up hundreds of thousands over my time, owned some of the fastest bikes made, I look at the guys who race there and think they must be insane yet I'm also deeply impressed with their level of skill and dedication.
Sir please I want to join TT
@@bohyebajoshua5929hhjjjmm l 09
When Goat created them, He forgot to install a program called "fear" in them...just laughing in the face of Death. Mad respect!
Mr.Geoff. loved your comment. I have never came close to this level. But..I love watching this race. Replies bring you back.
Agreed….seeing the unstable condition of the bike(s) during most of the race /lap is just insane to me as a normal life long rider ,but I can’t help to look past that and think of the amount of skill these guys have …to be able to put aside the thought of not having any safe area(s) for a crash / lay down/ high side etc etc brings me back to insane or denial …..I’m older now and as a young rider only a few were considered “more” crazy than I was in my group of friends but I can honestly say my “craziest “ moments out of all of em probably never approached the calmest moments of this race …maybe I’m exaggerating but if iam I don’t think by much ….mad respect for anyone who races here either way
Michael Dunlop's Northwest 200 win days after his father died on a practice lap is the most incredible sports story I've ever heard. Hands Down
It's even bigger than Brawn GP's F1 championship win in 2009!
Four Hundred Thousand hits!!!! Thank you everybody .... especially that weird guy who has watched it 300,000 times! Seriously, this is a great achievement for our little film and I just want to thank everyone who made it possible, again. Thank you. David
Just watched this for the first time, David. Beautiful film, sensitively directed, thoughtfully scripted.
A great intro to the TT. Now on my "life" bucket list. Safe riding to all.
Very good movie. You showed us all of it.
Is that you narrating? You have presented this brilliantly. Wonderful work.
T A "lll
Having raced 16 years in the IoM it is THE number 1 races of the year in the world. The riders know what they are letting themselves in for and what the worst outcome could be. It is the ultimate test of Man, Machine and environment.
And they said men cant fly. I beg to differ.
great footage, respect to the makers of it ... TT is a lifestyle, not a bunch of crazy bikers.... These are truly experienced guys, living their dream. And this is exact how the footage is brought ... thumbs up !
Just getting on my bike and riding to the grocery store is amazing. I cant imagine riding the TT
David Jeffries was the rider that got me fully addicted to the Isle of MannTT. His on bike camera views were simply amazing. When he died it was like Senna and Earnhardt dying. I simply couldnt believe it happened. Rest in Peace David.
This makes racing look extremely special and attractive.
Kind words, Stanley Oketch ... many thanks. All the best, David
RIP William Dunlop, you will always be one of the greatest and an inspiration for millions of us 😔
Thanks for watching and ur kind words my best
Respect all who race the IOM.. All winners in my book!
waynester71 wise words 🇬🇧
I know Right
even the 1s who died are they winners too ?.. i dont think this race is worth some1s life
@@kelsofire7366 -- you must not ride... consider yourself lucky the addiction is not rational.
Instead of calling it a dangerous addiction how about we call it a Courageous Gambit? Do you know the difference between courage and bravery? Courage goes first. Anyone calling this addiction is neither courageous nor brave and that's because they are overwhelmed by their instinct to stay alive. (Can't blame them for that) But, I can blame them for belittling the courageous, convicted and, brave amongst us. Those who lead us into great and untried territory. It's this rare spirit that transcends our base instinct to self preserve that opens this future. "A Dangerous addiction" ......Absolutely Absurd.
Not gonna lie. Had the feels hit my chest when William Dunlop was speaking in this video. Ride In Paradise :(
William was very kind and gentle when we worked with him. He spoke candidly and with tremendous grace (the full interview is on the Al Jazeera website). His death hit me hard and I still cannot believe it, to be honest. Kindest regards, David
He almost saved that bike ffs
Michael Dunlop won it this year. Truly amazing story there considering he lost his elder brother, father and uncle to racing. Emotional stuff, the kind movies are made off.
D.J. Hoskins lol what a l00ser
Everyone felt it
Having done 200 mph on a bike. These guys are professional. I could never be at this level. To ride in this environment. The best of the best are here.
Noo doubt.
R.I.P OUR IAN BELL TT SIDECAR CHAMPION OF BEDLINGTON.SADLY MISSED BY ALL WHO KNEW HIM.HIS SPIRIT IS THERE WITHOUT DOUBT.
Rip William Dunlop
TRUCKER TOM truly devastating
HUGE respect to Michael too, for continuing to race despite losing his uncle, brother and dad through racing.
@@jamesmilsom6632 Hope he see's sense and retires
@@tbrowniscool At least he can take solice in the fact his family members died happy, doing something that they enjoyed as opposed to holed up in a hospital bed dying of some disease.
@@jamesmilsom6632Im sure that stance is overated... They didnt die happy at all, dying in hospital with a disease isnt the most common form of death. Here's a tip... try to live as long as you can lol
Guy Martin is a proper lunatic. What a legend
Hugh Jackman picks up speedracing....
Guy Martin apparently said to a journalist once "my buzz is jumping off the bike at 170mph when it goes wrong".
He's got Aspergers..
8yrs on - still hasn't won a TT.
@@nomusplenus Multiple podiums 0 wins , oh guy Martin
@2:58 “Setting a cracking pace of nearly 80 miles an hour.” - I wonder if they ever imagined that they’d be running this race at 200+ MPH.
80 mph was the average speed in the early days. Top speed about 120 mph. 206 mph is the current top speed. Average speed has now topped over 134 mph.
130
No way.
I always imagine what it would be like to time travel. I would bring all kind of things with me including one of these machines.
bmfan Hicky did 135 in 2018 Senior.
This is probably the best TT Documentary i've ever watched ...... open, honest, informative and (in places) quite sad ..... a real 'insight' into the inner 'processes' that most people overlook !! Can't believe it's taken me 9 years to actually find and watch it ..... but i'm sooooo glad i now have ..... BRILLIANT !!!!! May all those people that feature in this that are sadly no longer with us be looking down with smiles ..... NON of them forgotten and every single one of them loved and admired 💖
This is a lovely message to receive, David Parkinson. Thank you so much. I am really glad the film spoke to you. Yes, we have lost friends since we made this film, and it still hurts. Sending you very best wishes ... stay safe. David
As a kid across the pond, Man was always a mystic place for me. Started watching in the 80s when a Brit mate sent me a video of Joey Dunlop's V Four Victory. I was forever hooked. When I finally made it to the IoM, I was blown away. The men, and now women, that compete are at once so ordinary, yet so extraordinary. Long live the TT.
A seven years old production and it still shines. This is beautiful storytelling.
Dear Gasthauz, that is a very generous comment and it is greatly appreciated. Thank you. Stay safe, David
I can’t conceive of the level of focus, and mental & physical strength it must take to even enter such a race. I may not have the skills or heart for such racing, but it makes for a fascinating spectacle.
“The Edge...There is no honest way to explain it because the only people who really know where it is are the ones who have gone over. The others-the living-are those who pushed their control as far as they felt they could handle it, and then pulled back, or slowed down, or did whatever they had to when it came time to choose between Now and Later. But the edge is still Out there.” Hunter S. Thompson
I met a old guy in San Pedro once who was on his way to IOM with his bike. At the time all I remember thinking was you lucky guy. He was trying to raise some funds for the trip. Wasn't his first time. Wish we had these video recorders like we have today back then. He had some real cool stories about his times in the race.
Never thought I would spend 40 min. watching Aljazeera . Great film really tells the TT story I;ve been there twice and hope to go again one day.
Aljazeera has some of the best coverage on any topic, it even comes close to BBC's wildlife docs in my mind.
200,000 views and climbing! Thank you so very much everybody. I am grateful that you are watching and enjoying something that we gave our very best to make. Keep spreading the word. Love and respect, David
LEGEND
Its 2020 mate
@@callmexxx3725 - its 2022 mate
@@randolfo1265 here we are
It's 2023 mate!
I watched the TTs in the late 1950's early 1960's, cars were scarce and many people rode motor bikes or had motor cycles with side cars. TT stars were family names, John Surtees, John Hartle, Mike Hailwood, Pat Read, Geoff Duke, Agostino, and the best sidecar racer Helmut Fath (although I can't remember his passenger). This brought back many memories.
I've been following this race since the 70s. Wide world of sports wouldn't televise it because of how dangerous it is. I've always wanted to go, even though I have never wanted to leave the states. Great documentary.
As an American, with many people here who have no idea what this race is, I really appreciate this documentary. Well done! Love from New Mexico, USA!
I am glad we could bring it to you, @scubawithatuba. All best wishes, David
I have only one dream in my life...Going to see Isle of Man TT race!! Life is courage !! Great men!!!
Yes that would be great!😀
Do go if you can. There’s nothing like it. A very special atmosphere, breathtaking speed and skills and a beautiful island.
Great documentary, good to see Milky helping everyone out, he helped me at MGP 2003 🏁
Just watched this for the second time and, without blowing smoke up your arse, it really is a superb documentary! I didnt elaborate much last time I sang its praises, so I will now. It is clearly aimed at the lay person rather than a life long motorcyclist and race fan but it never gets sensationalistic (is that a word?) about the obvious dangers. It doesnt patronise either and I think those would be faults that most films of this type would be guilty of. As I said in my last comment, I must have watched 100's of films and documentaries and 1000's of hours of bike racing so Ive seen a huge variety of styles and levels of quality but as a good, honest film about a truely unique event it would be hard to beat.
I appreciate your critique, Peter Huskins ... thank you. David ps ... sensationalistic - nope, not a word. D
yes must second your comments very well balanced film well done to all concerned in putting it together bravo if may just plug on you tube TT 3D CLOSER TO THE EDGE LEGENDADO PT a must watch film about the tt hope david ok with my plug !!!!
Tony Pate ... if you must!! Ha ha.
Anyone looking for more brilliant TT documentaries. I highly recommend "The road racers" and "V 4 Victory". There was no-one quite like Joey Dunlop. Unsurpassed as a road racer and a true gentleman. Your Marc Marques'es and the like may be great racers, but can they really measure up to the true gents of motorcycle racing like Joey, Agostini, Geoff Duke and John Surtees?
You should watch the Ulster NW200 Its even more insane
I'm saddened to hear today of that young man, William Dunlop's death whilst racing. My respects to his family.
Thanks for watching and ur kind words MY BEST
@@JMAC-rs6ey The real thanks goes to you and your family for making Road Racing what it is... God bless you, Sir...
I’m a huge fan of the TT and I’ve watched a bunch of documentaries about it, and this by far is the best one out there well done kind sir!
@Andy Street, you are very kind ... thank you. I appreciate your words. I am glad you enjoyed the film. Ride safe, David
Not sure why I got this in my feed..however..this was beautifully presented and informative. I have been a professional athlete and know the desire to compete at all costs! Bravo!!!!
This is true racing.There's nothing like that.
Roth Wood Amen to that Brother. I am hoping to live there within 5 years from now.
Roth Wood this is true racing, yes. F1 is also true racing, if you think this type of racing is the only type of true racing go back to the 60’s.
and there is a very good reason
What is “true racing”
@@paulmichaelfreedman8334 and?
Nerves of steel....Balls of solid brass.
That might just be true, Take the Red Pill. All best, David
...or : nerves of titanium...balls of nonobtanium...😉 Just being a regular at the track days events for many years, I just can't imagine participating in such dengerous race on the streets of the villages... Just unbelievable!!!
Guy Martin is actually Wolverine!!
Wolverine wishes he was Guy Martin!.
Fr
@@darkknight1340 true that
You know the demeanour or the doc maker is very nice, I wish all newscasting was still like that. It’s not about him at all, it’s about the people in the doc. So many “reporters” now force themselves on all of their stories as a way of lending them credibility. It’s a pretty big mess honestly. Nice to have someone do some self-effacing sort of stuff for once, especially for rural racing types who usually get treated like dirt by the fancy pants in offices.
Rip William Dunlop. Really good lad 😢
I'm old and I still ride, but not like these fellows! Much respect and admiration for these superb and daring riders! Would luv to come and watch!
Fantastically entertaining documentary. I loved the fact that they took a newcomer's perspective, really helped get across the unique difficulty of the TT.
Thank you Pilkie101 ... I am so happy that you like the way we approached the film and I am glad that you enjoyed it. All the best, David
Having ridden round the TT circuit many times I find it amazing the these guys can lap 17 minutes or so considering the many "slow" sections like the "Nook" etc!.
Gooseneck is my favourite. A great corner and a great spectator point.
As a long-time rider and enthusiast of the sport, you all did a great job of capturing the essence of the race itself. It's all about toeing that line. They surely have some cojones.
I am a rider who is legally allowed to ride only 160cc in the country because that's the countries law. I am from Bangladesh. I studied in England doing my graduation, but I didn't know about the Isle of Man or the TT. Now every single day I pray to God, and wish; one day, before the end of time, I will ride my bike on that piece of road. For once in my life, even if it is for a day, I want to live, I want to ride, I want to race with these legends One day....
Brilliant...
Thank you RoyalJordanian. Very kind. David
Wow 7 years ago
@@fxjh21 8n8n8n8nin8n8j8nn8n88n
@@kapucinski n8nin8n88n8n8n8j8n8n8nn88nn88nn8
Brilliant documentary. Moving, exciting.....good to see there is still an old school event like this still running. Well done all !
T to
Just watched this for the first time, came across it after a search for the TT. I thin it is one of the best films I have ever seen. Full of facts, great interviews and an admirable passion and respect shown by the interviewer. Thank you for posting on KZhead.
Very kind words, Roger Custance, they are greatly appreciated. Wishing you well, David
The best documentary I have seen about the TT. Please do another one next year. The privateers are as much a part of the TT as the big teams. So happy that you have focused on them. Counting the days until next year. It is better than Christmas for me and my family.
Im from the isle of man and ive watched every tt since i was born
What a lucky place to be born, I'm jealous
@@weko6273 it onistly so good
Every rider who finishes this race has balls of steel, deserves the greatest accolade, n the greatest respect of any rider on earth all I wish for is every rider returns safely best wishes to you all great riders
I absolutely love the dialect of their English. So unique, from an American perspective. Ours can be quite vulgar.
I am not really into bikes, but this film came up on my feed, and I watched it. Kudos to the people who put this together. Well written, poignant, telling a story with dignity, empathy, and humanity. I enjoyed it thoroughly, and found it to be a captivating glimpse into a world I have not explored before. Well done.
Thank you fro your very kind words, Triple E Circle. They mean a lot to me. Stay safe, David
RIP William Dunlop
This documentary and Closer to the edge are two great documentaries about this spectacular event.
Thank you miko ... I am glad that you enjoyed it. All the best, David
Have you seen ROAD its one of the best racing documentaries of all time based on the Isle of Man TT
Awesome documentary! These riders are shamefully few and far between. Hats off to all of the competitiors who have the courage and direction to continue this sport. Also may they rest in peace those who have had their lives taken by the sport they loved dear.
Great documentary. TT is intense. And Guy Martin needs subtitles. I´d love to understand what he says.
He speaks a dialect called 'Dibnah'.
canturgan your comment made me laugh out loud. Hats off to you sir.
I cant understand why people cant understand Guy Martin.
Most of what he says is commonly translated as "faster"
There's no subtitles for Guy Martin, only true legends can understand him 👍
That John McGuiness guy looks like Angus Young when he was younger. I guess he rides his motorcycle like Angus plays his gutair. Wide open and loud.
All these riders are the bravest men on earth. Irrespective of their position in race, they all are winners
More of a 4 wheel racer myself but I doff my cap to the ultimate race.. amazing people. Great documentary congratulations
Thank you jason phelan. I am glad you enjoyed the film. All the best, David
Car racing pulled away from the Island many many years before the 'official' bike racing did.
Still one of the best holidays taken, even after years of skydiving
Exemplifies the dangerous and scary side yet a relaxing documentary at the same time
Fantastic video though it’s sad to see William Dunlop discussing the risks.
It’s very dangerous
@@JMAC-rs6ey I know, and if you understand the risks, you are of sound mind and you still decide to do it then fair play. It’s probably one of the last things you can do on this earth without the nanny state dictating to you.
@@joannietrotter2344 I will continue the endless pursuit of victory. Will power and determination prevail over all NO LIMITS MY BEST NUFF SAID
Can't believe I only just got around to watching this! A brilliant documentary made with sensitivity and insight that will engage people with no interest in bike racing. On a personal note, I watched the 2010 Macau GP with Sue, Gary Johnson's mum, and was moved by the footage of her during Supersport Race 1. Great job.
Thank you for this. The film really captures the spirit of the TT. Loved every second. Brilliant.
Great documentary. Scared the heck out of me but got to admire the passion that drives these guys!
Big Respect and Salute to all those who rode here. I wish I had the resources to participate there.. It's a distant dream from the mountains of India🇮🇳. Born to race and ride.
I agree with Peter. This is a well constructed documentary with some great interviews.
Thank you Captain Howdy ... I am pleased that you liked the film. All the best, David
Amazing footage of the TT and a really interesting documentary
Thank you, Fiona Boss. I am happy that you enjoyed the film. All best wishes, David
You know it’s crazy to hear Michael Dunlap respond to the question about the deaths at the TT now that he is Riding In Peace.
William
Guy Martin had a Crash at the Isle of Man TT when his Transmission failed.. From memory he has had two big crashes on the Isle of Man
Gods of speed!...so much respect for these riders.(Ive been riding since I was 8yrs old) ...and if you have to ask "Why do they do it?"....you may never understand why we race or ride. Great Vid...thnks for sharing R.I.P (Ride In Paradise) Paul Dobbs -2010...Your not forgotten mate.
IOM, the pinnacle of racing and proof that humans are crazy. Mad respect to all who had ever raced IOM.
RESPECT.. I can't text any other words.. Men of passion.. RESPECT AGAIN
Fantastic film short, it really opens your eyes to the danger of the TT and bikes in general, it throws up a lot of questions and answers more. Thoroughly enjoyed watching this. Long live the TT. Have been lucky enough to witness this road race phenomenon on a number of occasions. It amazes me every time. The atmosphere is literally electric. Thank you.
I am so happy you enjoyed it, Angels Travel and Tours. Thank you for your kind words. Stay safe. David
@@kapucinski thoroughly, thank you. Great documentary. Stay safe too. 🙂👍
those evy disguised stone walls really smart. R.I.P Dunlap
Manx GP: Neil Kent 25.08.2011, RIP my friend.
A thoughtful and very well produced and presented documentary, done without any agenda. I very much enjoyed watching it.
it's just fabulous watching 1 hour TT
Really well done. Such a great balance between the thrill, the love, the danger and the history
I’ve ridden since I was 4 years old. I’ve ridden fast. I genuinely wish I had been brave enough to have done this. Everyone who has ever turned a hot lap at the IOM has my respect.
The commentator was phenomenal... had a tear for the boys....Seth
I like in the begining he daid in the quiet world on your bike when your riding all out you font think about bills, woman, anything but concentration on the task at hand. The same thing happenens when you start paddling into a wave on a surfboard, the world goes away and for a little while your free.
What a Fantastic Documentary! I enjoyed the enthusiasm and curiosity as you are a rider yourself! Motorcycling is something else and it is enjoyed by people that are something else! I love the honesty that exists between motorcylists! Thank you for your efforts in making this documentry! Stay safe and enjoy every ride!
Amazing video guys! Thanks for putting this together so well. Motorcycle racer's are living life like its supposed to be lived.
I can watch this on film but if I lived there I would try to visit London while this was going down. That is crazy scary fast. My heart races watching them.
Outstanding documentary the commitment and dedication from riders to Marshals is immense
Thank you Paul Cressey ... you are very kind. I'm glad you enjoyed the film. Best regards, David
So good, so honest.
Many thanks & congratulations to everyone involved in producing this superb documentary. I've watched it countless times - and it never fails to impress me with its quality and sensitivity to the amazing spectacle that is the TT.
Thank you Missy Dee ... those are very kind words and they are greatly appreciated. All best wishes, David
I have been there a few times, spectating and working. This pretty much grasps the feeling of the Isle of Man rces
Thank you Brian Williamson .... that's what we set out to achieve. Grateful for your comments. All best, David
Living on the edge makes you feel more alive, don't think anything else gives you more adrenaline than driving this race! Such brave men😀
It’s a way of life for those people, I love it.
Thanks for your excellent documentary on the TT - the world's most exciting motorsport race - well done! 😎👍
Met the Dunlop family back in 2007 at Motorcycle Convention in Australia.
Thank you DVDA83 ... high praise. Glad you enjoyed it. David
As a Manxman and massive TT fan, it really annoys me when these sort of documentaries are thrown together, sensationalised, factually incorrect and far too much time spent on the obvious dangers and incidents that sadly occur. However, I thought this was really well filmed. A great insight from a Newcomers perspective and the 'torture' pit crew and family go through waiting for riders to return (I've been in that position, Horrible lol). You obviously have a passion for the TT and did your homework...something a lot of past documentary makers and journo's could learn from. Excellent work David!!!
Thank you BodTheCap .... I really appreciate your kind words. With very best wishes, David
Why don't people mind there own Business and leave us to do what We do
Beautifully made and narrated film. Captured the passion and love for this event in a kind and sympathetic light. Thank you 🙏
You are very kind, Chris H ... I am so happy you enjoyed it. Be safe, David
I have always wondered why people want to race at the IOM tt,this documentary really does give an insight into the physiology of those who do literally put there life on the line. Thanks.
I am pleased the film gave you more of an insight, Dj Phantom. We learned a lot making it, too. Regards, David
One of the best documentaries I've seen, and that's the truth. Thank you very much.
Oh wow, Eric Rusch Sr ... that is a huge compliment. Thank you ... I am glad you enjoyed it.
I love bikes and drive bikes on a daily basis but this is in a different league respect lads