It was a thrilling day of action at the 56th Percy Duff, Barbon Hill Climb for motorcycles and three wheelers, writes Vince Brand.
Cumbria Crack’s Vince, of Arenberg Photography, went along to the picturesque Barbon Manor estate, which draws enthusiasts and families to this celebrated event.
Organised by the renowned Westmorland Motor Club, the event was blessed with glorious sunshine.
Founded in 1910, the Westmorland Motor Club has consistently grown, powered by a dedicated team of volunteers who ensure the success of such events.
Earlier this month, the club faced the potential cancellation of the hill climb due to a lack of entries but a call to action on social media successfully rallied the bike and three-wheeler community, achieving the necessary number of participants to keep the event alive.
In the end the Barbon Hill Climb boasted an impressive line-up, headlined by motorcycling legend John McGuinness MBE.
With 23 TT wins, McGuinness is the third most successful TT racer of all time, following the late Joey Dunlop (26 wins) and his nephew, Michael Dunlop (25 wins).
McGuinness, a real roads specialist from Morecambe, also has an extensive short circuit racing resume, including stints in 24-hour World Endurance races like the Bol d’Or and Le Mans, 500cc GPs, and the Daytona 200.
He is a former British 250cc champion, has competed in World SuperSport, and finished third in the 2009 British Superstock Championship.
Joining McGuinness at the start line was British Superbikes star and fans’ favourite, Storm Stacey while completing the Headline Act was Ben Birchall, a dominant figure in sidecar racing with 14 Isle of Man TT victories, having just returned from this year’s edition.
Birchall thrilled the audience with fast demonstration runs throughout the day.
Special guest John Holt, who first participated in the event 60 years ago, added to the historic atmosphere. Now active in classic racing, Holt competed on a Honda CBR and a DMW Hornet, and later handed out trophies to the day’s winners.
A stand-out moment came courtesy of the Black Eagle Team, who showcased a beautifully restored MV Agusta from the golden age of biking.
Previously raced to victory in the Classic TT by Michael Dunlop, the bike’s powerful ascent on the loudest bike up the hill climb was a major highlight.
Competitors were categorised into classes, including solos up to 250cc, 251-350cc, 351-500cc, 501-750cc, 751-1400cc, Vintage, Classic, RWYB, and Sidecars & Three-Wheelers up to 1300cc.
The event was a fantastic family day out, set in a beautiful location and superbly managed by the Westmorland Motor Club.
Passionate riders and fans, supported by an army of enthusiastic volunteers and marshals, ensured the day was a brilliant success.
The 56th Percy Duff, Barbon Hill Climb for Motorcycles and Three Wheelers was a testament to the vibrant motorcycling community and the enduring spirit of the Westmorland Motor Club.
Be sure to mark your calendars for this must-see event in 2025.
