Ready to experience a thrilling blend of history and high-speed adrenaline? Right here we are at the 11th Milestone on the Isle of Man. It is not just a marker but a legendary series of bends on the A3 Castletown to Ramsey road.
The 11th Milestone gets its name from its location. It lies 11 miles from the start of the famous Isle of Man TT and Manx Grand Prix races. However, don’t look for a sign. The organization’s board is nowhere to be found. The whole combination of bends is known as “11th Milestone”.
Originally, a stone milestone stood near Glen Helen in the 19th century. Later, in the 1860s, an iron milestone was placed near Drinkwater’s Bend. It marked the 13th mile of the A3. The current 11th Milestone marker is near Cronk Bane Farm. This is just before Drinkwater’s Bend.
This area is dominated by the Ballamenagh and Shoughlaige-e-Caine farmland. In the 1830s, the A3 road was re-profiled to avoid marshland. This created the elongated S-bend you see today.
Approaching the first bend, riders come from the Cronk-y-Voddy Straight at high speed. They navigate the Molyneux’s corner before downshifting for the 11th. This series of right-right-left turns can be taken at around 225 km/h. Riders lean in to maintain speed for the descent to Handley’s Corner.
Tragedy struck here in 1949. Ben Drinkwater crashed fatally during the Junior TT. This corner became known as Drinkwater’s Bend. He planned to retire after the race to support young racers.
In 1983, Steve Hislop broke down at the 11th Milestone. From the bank, he watched his rivals speed past. Norman Brown almost blew him off the bank. Joey Dunlop seemed impossibly fast. This moment changed Hislop’s life. He vowed to become as fast as Brown and Dunlop. Hislop went on to win 11 TT races.
The 11th Milestone is exposed to the elements. Mist, rain, and wind are common. The mist is often denser here. Training and races are stopped if the rescue helicopter cannot land.
The 11th Milestone is more than just a location. It’s a place of history. It is a place of tragedy and inspiration. It is a testament to the skill and courage of motorcycle racers. As you stand here, feel the echoes of roaring engines. Feel the spirit of those who have conquered this legendary stretch of road.