Past and Present Champions Unite at 70th Anniversary Lunch

7 October 2025

Past and Present Champions Unite at 70th Anniversary Lunch

This year marked a historic milestone for the Southern 100 Road Races, as the ‘friendly races’ celebrated their 70th Anniversary on the Billown Course.

It is hard to believe that over 70 years have passed since George Costain and Joe Mylchreest first officially measured the course using the traditional ‘chain’ measure of 22 yards, walking the full length of the course. Their work confirmed what remains true today, the Southern 100 course measures an exact 4.25 miles.

To celebrate the anniversary, a number of former champions were welcomed back to Castletown, representing seven decades of racing heritage. Those in attendance included Ron Langstan (1960), Charlie Williams (1972), Steve Tonkin (1974), George Fogarty (1979), Dave Dean (1980), Dave Ashton (1981), Con Law (1982), Brian Reid (1983), Dave Pither (1984), Kenny Harrison (1985 & 1986), Dave Leach (1989), Bob Jackson (1995 & 1998), Ian Lougher (2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2007, 2008), Michael Dunlop MBE (2011 & 2012) and most recently Davey Todd (2022, 2024 & 2025).

A special Champions Lunch was hosted by the team at The Garrison, Castletown where His Excellency Sir John Lorimer and Lady Lorimer joined the celebrations. Each former champion was presented with a commemorative glass plaque as a token of appreciation. The lunch provided a wonderful opportunity for champions of past and present to share stories and reflect on their experiences of the Southern 100, with conversations filled with enthusiasm for both the races and the Billown Course.

Following the lunch, the champions crossed the road to the Southern 100 Fanzone run in conjunction with Bushy’s, where a lively ‘Champions Chat Show’ was held. Fans were treated to an afternoon of memories and tales from those who have etched their names into the event’s history.

The 70th Anniversary celebrations brought together the spirit, camaraderie and passion that have defined the Southern 100 for generations.

As the curtain closes on this landmark year, attention now turns to the future. Preparations are already underway for the 2026 Southern 100 Road Races which will take place on 6th, 7th, 8th & 9th July 2026.