Startline - Road Racing podcast
Startline goes behind the visors with Radio TT and Manx Grand Prix presenter Beth Espey, as she uncovers what it really takes to earn a spot on the grid of the Isle of Man Mountain Course. The podcast explores the physical strength, mental endurance, and race bike toughness required for riders chasing a place on the start line of this iconic and dangerous road racing circuit.
Episodes
Startline Ep 48 - Grant Thomson recorded live at the George
This episode of Startline was recorded in front of a live audience at The George in Castletown on the Isle of Man.
Beth catches up with Isle of Man road racer Grant Thomson after a season that has already brought incredible highs and difficult lows.
From a tough first outing at the North West 200 to standing on the top step twice at the Pre-TT Classic Road Races, Grant reflects on how 2026 has unf
Startline Ep 48 - Aarron West: From the rink to the Mountain
This week on Startline, we’re joined by Aaron West, a racer from Colorado with one of the most unusual routes to the Manx Grand Prix you’re likely to hear.
Aaron didn’t grow up on two wheels. In fact, he only learned to ride a bicycle after seeing TT highlights at the age of 19 and deciding, almost immediately, that one day he wanted to race on the Isle of Man.
Since then, he’s gone from a profess
Startline Ep 47 - Andrew Coulter: The dream that wouldn’t go away
This week on Startline, we meet Andrew Coulter - a Manx Grand Prix 2026 newcomer from Wakefield, West Yorkshire, who has spent years quietly carrying a dream that first started when he was just a kid riding bikes in the street.
Andrew’s route to the Mountain Course hasn't been instant or easy. There have been gaps, setbacks, crashes, work pressures, family life and all the usual chaos that comes
Startline Ep 46 - Stephen Walsh: Juggle if you want to go faster
What makes someone spend years chasing a dream that most people would never dare attempt? And what is it about road racing that keeps people coming back, despite the risks, the setbacks, and the sacrifices?
In this episode, Beth Espey sits down with Irish road racer and psychologist Stephen Walsh, whose life is split between brain injury rehabilitation by day and classic motorcycle racing at weeke
Startline Ep 45 - Brandon Kavanagh: From paddock crew to Manx Grand Prix rider
In this episode, we meet Brandon Kavanagh - a 27-year-old racer from County Wexford who is already making his mark on the roads.
Brandon made his Manx Grand Prix debut last year, hitting his target of a 110mph lap, and he’s now preparing to return with the Roadhouse Macau Racing Team on a new Suzuki GSX-R 750.
But Brandon’s story isn’t just about riding. He’s grown up around bikes, works long days
Startline Ep 44 - Andy Farrell: Let the speed to come to you - and if you need a wee...go
In this episode of Startline, Beth Espey is joined by Irish road racer Andy Farrell - a rider with two Manx Grand Prix wins, membership of the Tommy Club, and more than a few stories from a life spent around bikes.
Andy’s love of racing started in Skerries and what began as a fairly impulsive decision to go road racing turned into a 20-year journey through Irish national road races, the Manx Grand
Startline Ep 43 - Fraser Heginson: Just Loves Bikes
In this episode of Startline, we meet Fraser Heginson - a Manx-based rider whose love of bikes runs through just about every part of his life.
From growing up around the TT paddock and watching his heroes on the Mountain Course, to racing CB500s, Aprilias, classics, and even having the odd go as a sidecar passenger, Fraser’s story is full of humour, honesty and genuine passion for the sport.
Now h
Startline Ep 42 -Billown Bound: Pre-TT newcomers and returners gear up
In today's episode we are talking again about the 2026 Pre-TT Classic Road races.
We speak to some riders taking it on the Billown Course for the first time, while others are back for another go.
Liam Wood, Ben Grainger, Lee Stanaway and George Anderson talk us through their newcomer prep, while Wayne Avis and Adam Randells share what it’s like to return to the event.
The Pre-TT is on from Friday
Startline Ep 41 - Pre-TT Newcomers: Ste Sewell and Liam Taylor
In this episode of Startline, we turn our attention to the Billown Course and the Pre-TT Classic Road Races, taking place on the Isle of Man on 22nd, 23rd and 24th May.
Organised by the Southern 100 Club, the Pre-TT has become one of the standout fixtures in the Classic racing calendar - a proper “must-do” meeting that regularly attracts well over 250 entries across its nine-race programme.
Among
Startline Ep 40 - Charlie Hopkins: From Yorkshire brews to Mountain Course views
In this episode of Startline we are with Charlie Hopkins - a Yorkshireman with a love of tea, a sharp eye for an auction bargain, and a growing passion for racing on the Isle of Man.
Charlie’s journey has taken him from casual biking and pit bikes to the challenge of the Manx Grand Prix in 2025, where ambition, preparation and belief all met on the Mountain Course.
He talks honestly about what it
Startline Ep 39 - Lorenz Rothärmel: From Germany to Glencrutchery Road
In this episode of Startline, we meet Lorenz Rothärmel, a rider whose road racing dream has brought him from Germany to the Isle of Man and to one of the biggest challenges in the sport - the Manx Grand Prix 2026.
Lorenz shares how his passion for road racing first began, what drew him to the Mountain Course, and how he is preparing himself for the demands of racing on Manx public roads.
We
Startline Ep 38 - Shane Doran: From the front line to the start line
In this episode of Startline, we meet a rider whose story is built on discipline, determination and a relentless drive to chase the dream.
Shane Doran is balancing two worlds that both demand absolute commitment - a career in the military, and the challenge of road racing.
And now, he’s setting his sights firmly on the Manx Grand Prix for 2026.
From early inspirations and family support, to the re
Startline Ep 37 - Ray Goodwin and Sam Naughton: The sponsor and the sponsored
Behind every rider chasing a dream around the Mountain Course on the Isle of Man, there’s a story that goes far beyond the bike.
In this episode of Startline, we explore the vital role of sponsorship in motorcycle racing and the people who make it all possible.
Ray Goodwin joins us as a passionate supporter of Manx riders, committed to helping local talent reach the start line and take their next
Startline Ep 36 - Ryan Whitehall: Next stop TT
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 securin
Startline Ep 35 - Rhys Stephenson: It's a family affair
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 brot
Startline Ep 34 - The Scrutineers: The team behind every start line
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
Startline Ep 33 - Gary Partridge: Just mega
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 t
Startline Ep 32 - Matthew Rostron: From three wheels to two
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 b
Startline Ep 31 - Jack Fowler: "My brain's like a washing machine."
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 r
Startline Ep 30 - Returning champions and rising stars: Reeves & Farnier, Ellis & Clément, David Datzer and the MGP newcomers weekend
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
Startline Ep 29 - It takes a team: MBR Motorsport's Mike Bibby and Rodger Wibberley
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 lin
Startline Ep 28 - Racing is why I wake up every morning - Illiam Quayle
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 e
Startline Ep 27 - Raised on bikes, from Enduro to the IOM: David McArthur
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 disciplin
Startline Ep 26 - Connect, Challenge, Change: Women Riders, World Relay
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 r
Startline Ep 25 - You cannae race a house: Johnny Stewart
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
Startline Ep 24 - 3rd generation petrol head screaming on the inside, speeding on the outside: Roddy Taylor
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 ra
Startline Ep 23 - The Dream versus reality: MGP and Classic TT 2025
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 somethin
Startline Ep 22 - Preparing for the MGP together: Around the table with the Robsons
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
Startline Ep 21 - The Manxican and the one that loves pugs: Stuart Clotworthy and Stefan Alger
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 does
Startline Ep 20 - Two wheels, future uncertain: Israel Gillette
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 compa
Startline Ep 19 - You just want to go again: Andy Herd
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
Startline Ep 18 - Journey to a Dream Live: Grant Thomson, Rory Parker and Marcus Simpson
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 Dou
Startline Ep 17 - If you love something enough, you'll find a way: Bailey Harker
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 competiti
Startline Ep 16 - Where love meets the Mountain: Jordan Larkin and Olivia Quinn
In this episode, Jordan Larkin and Olivia Quinn open up about their shared obsession with motorcycle racing - and Jordan’s aim to be on the start line at Manx Grand Prix 2026.
They discuss their racing roots, the emotional weight of supporting each other, and why community and sponsorship can make or break a rider’s future.
We also explore the heart of their relationship, the families who shaped t
Startline Ep 15 - It's absolutely achievable: Adam Williams
In this conversation, Adam Williams shares his journey as a motorcycle racer, detailing his experiences from his first race to his aim to be at the Manx Grand Prix 2026.
He discusses the realities of bike racing, the importance of preparation, and the support he receives from the racing community.
Adam also opens up about the challenges of balancing racing with his full-time job, managing diabetes
Startline Ep 14 - A toda máquina siempre: Victor Ortega Pérez
In today’s episode, we sit down with Victor Ortega Pérez, a rider from Spain who is one of the most dedicated international competitors at the Manx Grand Prix.
Victor first tackled the Mountain Course in 2019, grabbing an impressive ninth place in the Newcomers A race and making his debut in the Junior MGP.
But today, Victor’s isn't just talking about his own progress - he shares advice for anyone
Startline Ep 13 - Born with gasoline in my blood: August Kroon
In this conversation, Danish racer August Kroon shares his deep-rooted passion for motorcycle racing, influenced by a family legacy that spans generations.
He discusses his aspirations to race in the Isle of Man, his achievements in Danish and German championships, and the challenges of balancing his racing career with his job as an aircraft technician.
August also highlights the importance of com
Startline Ep 12 - When your Teacher's faster than your Wi-Fi: Nick Round’s road to MGP
In this conversation, Nick Round shares his journey as a motorcycle racer, discussing his recent successes, future aspirations for the Manx Grand Prix in 2027, and the challenges of balancing his career as a secondary maths teacher with his passion for racing.
He reflects on the importance of sponsorship, the supportive racing community, and the analytical mindset that helps him improve his perfor
Startline Ep 11 - Back in my happy place: Dan Nurrish (and Bailey)
We meet Dan Nurrish in this episode - a racer whose passion never left him, even when life forced him off the bike for a number of years.
Dan grew up around motorcycles, and those early memories have shaped everything, and now with his sidekick and canine manager Bailey by his side, he's aiming to make the dream of Manx Grand Prix 2026 a reality.
We know it isn't easy - sponsorship is tough to fin
Startline Ep 10 - The art of the power nap: Daniel Pearson
We meet Daniel Pearson in this episode - the Yorkshire rider powered by tea, legendary naps, and spending time with his Dad doing what they love most.
Every rider has their own way of getting race ready, and as we'll hear, Daniel’s no different - although perhaps a little more relaxed than some.
His routine, his family support, and his ability to handle those unexpected, last-minute changes have a
Startline Ep 9 - Back to the Startline: Damian Horan & Andy McAllister
In the high-speed world of motorcycle road racing, the thrill of the chase comes hand in hand with risk, resilience, and reflection.
In this episode, Damian Horan and Andy McAllister open up about a season that didn’t go quite to plan - the setbacks, the hopeful comebacks, and the lessons learned along the way.
From the physical toll of recovery to the mental battle of getting back on the bike, th
Startline Ep 8 - From pizza to podium: Lee McGavock’s road to the Manx Grand Prix
In this episode, we chat with Lee McGavock, a road racer whose journey is fuelled by family support, determination, and a love of speed.
From buying a pizza shop to balancing life, work, and training, Lee shares the real story behind the leathers.
He talks about career highlights, sponsorship challenges, and why the joy of the journey matters just as much as the finish line - all while aiming for
Startline Ep 7 - Chasing the Island dream:Thomas Altendorfer’s road to the Manx Grand Prix
In this episode, we meet Thomas Altendorfer, a determined young motorcycle racer from Austria who’s setting his sights on one of the toughest and most iconic challenges in road racing - the Manx Grand Prix 2026 on the Isle of Man.
Thomas shares his journey from the early days of falling in love with speed to carving out a path toward the legendary mountain course.
He opens up about the grit behind
Startline Ep 6 - A dream without a plan is just a wish: George Anderson
In this episode of Startline, George Anderson takes us back to where it all began - watching the TT at the Crosby pub with his dad.
Inspired by Adrian Archibald’s victory in that race, he recalls the moment that first lit his passion for racing.
George reflects on how early memories can spark lifelong dreams on the road to the grid, as he aims for the Manx Grand Prix in 2026.
You can find George o
Startline Ep 5 - From the ring to the road: Adrian O’Connor’s fight for the Classic TT
Joining us in this episode is Adrian O’Connor – a self-confessed rebel with a lifetime of stories.
Turning 50 if he makes the grid for the Classic TT, Adrian’s journey has been anything but ordinary: from a promising boxer sidelined by injury to time spent in prison, where he decided life was too short not to chase his dream of racing.
Now, with his Gracie Quinn Racing team named after his t
Startline Ep 4 - NRW Racing and the road ahead: Nick Healy’s journey to the MGP
In this episode we’re joined by Nick Healy from Ireland - a racer who’s been on the grid since 2014.
After the decline of road racing in the south, Nick and a few mates set up the NRW Race Team to keep the spirit alive.
Now, with Nick's sights set on the Manx Grand Prix next year and one of his four kids already showing talent on two wheels, racing clearly runs in the family.
You can follow Nick's
Startline Ep 3 -Throttle dreams and viral moments: Arran Hands on life, bikes & the road to MGP
In this episode of Startline, we’re in the fast lane with a rider who’s chasing dreams on two wheels and breaking the internet while he’s at it.
With a massive social media following, Arran Hands is turning heads both on the road and online, and he's got one goal in his sights: the Manx Grand Prix 2026.
You can find Arran's YouTube channel here and follow him on Facebook, Instagram and X.
You can
Startline Ep 2 - Fuelled by passion: Neil Rutledge's aim to race the Manx Grand Prix
In this episode we meet Neil Rutledge - a racer and a family man who's dreaming big.
Here Neil opens up about life in the garage, balancing work, family, and the relentless pursuit of speed.
It’s not just about bikes - it’s about belief, sacrifice, and chasing something bigger than yourself.
You can follow Neil on Facebook here and Instagram here.
Startline Ep 1 - Breaking barriers on the road to the MGP: Ashley Robson
She’s aiming for the Manx Grand Prix in 2026 - and she’s not slowing down.
Beth Espey talks to road racer Ashley Robson about what it takes to make the Startline of the most challenging course on earth.
You can find Ashley on Facebook here and Instagram here.
You can get in touch with Beth by emailing beth@startline.im
