THE MOUNTAIN COURSE: SECTOR 2
The second sector of the Mountain Course covers the distinctive and challenging 10 mile stretch between Cronk-y-Voddy and Ballaugh Bridge.
CRONK-Y-VODDY
Mostly uninhabited, the long, lightning-fast straights of Cronk-y-Voddy are lined either side by agricultural land, from Sarah’s Cottage to the Cronk-y-Voddy crossroads.
There are lots of great vantage points here, with the most spectacular spots found between Lambell and Molyneux’s in particular. Make sure to check with the marshals before making yourself at home, though!
BARREGARROW
2 miles on from Cronk-Y-Voddy, Barregarrow can be found (and pronounced buh-garrow, if you’re wondering).
A rapid spot with speeds of 140mph, the spectacularly fast left-hand bend can be found at Barregarrow Crossroads at the top of the hill, accessible from either side of the course.
From the inside of the course, you can walk down to the bottom of Barregarrow for more jaw dropping action (as seen from one of the new camera points on the live coverage on TT+ at TT 2024). However, be warned, viewing is limited and this spot gets more and more sought after!
KIRK MICHAEL
Another mile and a half on, we come to many of the riders’ favourite spots to race through - Kirk Michael Village.
The Mitre Pub is a popular choice for many, found just along from Douglas Road Corner, as it provides a great atmosphere, and food, drink and facilities throughout.
Keep going through the village and there are many side streets with limited but nonetheless iconic viewing.
The most popular spot though, is the vantage point at Whitehouse Park just out of the village, (for a fee on race days).
BALLAUGH BRIDGE
Perhaps the most famous landmark on the mountain course, Ballaugh Bridge is one of the slower parts of the course.
After getting airborne over the hump-backed bridge, the riders speed away through the village.
You can watch the riders fly from either side of the junction - just remain behind the barriers. But is inside or outside the course better? The outside has better visibility, but the inside has the Raven Hotel.