Double Southern 100 Solo Champion Passes
The passing of seven-time world champion Phil Read MBE on Thursday 6th October 2022 brings many deserving tributes to one of the ‘icons’ of the road racing family.
Looking back on an illustrious career, after winning the Senior Manx Grand Prix in 1960, the Luton rider moved to the TT the following June and took the chequered flag in the Junior TT, after Mike Hailwood retired.
Phil Read returned to the Isle of Man in July 1961 making his debut at the Southern 100 Road Races and engraved his name in the history of the Billown races with the first ‘dead heat’ of the event as he and Alan Shepherd crossed the line side by side in the 350cc Junior race setting a record lap of 82.79 mph in the process and went on to win the 500cc Solo Championship race in what was the last 24-lap 100 mile race on the 4.25 mile Billown Course.
He returned in 1962 and repeated to double, this time winning the 350cc Junior race outright and retain his 500cc Solo Championship title with a race speed of 84.47mph for 18 lap race setting a fastest lap at 86.52 mph.
Phil’s ‘Billown’ career was brief but spectacular as he joined the world championship scene gaining 52 Grands Prix wins and 8 TT wins.
Rest in Peace Phil and thank you for presence at the friendly races, one of many who went on to achieve British and World Championship victories and accolades.
Southern 100 send their condolences to Michael, Graham, Phil Jr, Roki , Esme and the rest of the family and friends.
(Photo Southern 100 Archives depicts Phil Read on his way to his second Solo Championship in 1962 – 60 years ago.)
