A chilling wind whips around the 26th Milestone. It’s more than just a marker on the Snaefell Mountain Road. This bend in the A18 is steeped in history. More importantly it’s etched with tragedy.
The 26th Milestone isn’t just a number. It’s known as Joey’s. This commemorates Joey Dunlop. He was a 26-times Isle of Man TT winner. Sadly he died in a racing accident in Estonia. The 26th Milestone became a poignant tribute to this legend.
This spot has witnessed some horrific accidents. In 2007 a terrible crash occurred here. A racer and two spectators lost their lives during the Centenary TT races. The impact was immense. The event forever altered the landscape of the 26th Milestone. Safety improvements followed. Part of a grass bank was removed. A new marshal’s shelter was built. Even the milestone itself was moved.
Another tragedy struck in 2014. Three-times British Supersport champion Karl Harris died at the 26th Milestone. He collided with another competitor. His death highlighted the inherent dangers of this notoriously challenging bend.
The 26th Milestone isn’t just about racing deaths. It’s part of a much longer story. The A18 Snaefell Mountain Road itself has a rich history. It evolved from older paths and roads. Nineteenth-century construction techniques are evident in its design. Small cuttings and embankments still exist. They follow the contours of the land. Right-angle bends and sheep gates mark this historical road.
Improvements were made at the 26th Milestone for the 1938 TT races. A small metal milestone from the era of James Garrow was once situated here. It served as the 13th milestone marker on the A18. This older marker is long gone now.
The 26th Milestone isn’t just a point on a map. It’s a place of remembrance. It stands as a silent testament to the courage and the risks taken on the Snaefell Mountain Course. The wind still howls here. It carries the echoes of past triumphs and the somber weight of lives lost. The 26th Milestone continues to inspire awe and respect in equal measure.