The Entire guide to… marshalling at the Isle of Man TT Races

The TT is an event of heroes but, without these particular heroes, there would be no racing at all…

People make the Isle of Man TT and among the most important people are the hundreds upon hundreds of volunteers who marshal during TT fortnight.

It takes an orange army of at least 565 marshals for a session at the TT races to go ahead. It is no exaggeration to say that without them, there would be no racing.

Marshals are there to keep competitors and spectators safe throughout the two weeks of the TT. Other than the riders themselves, they get closer to the action than anyone. It’s sometimes a tough job, but the love of the races keeps them coming back year-after-year.

A number of marshals have given 25 years of service (with a few even recording double that) while a some even make an annual pilgrimage from Australia and New Zealand to don orange and take up their post. There’s a real family feeling between the marshals during TT fortnight, and many become lifelong friends away from the racing too.

The Isle of Man TT Mountain course is 37.73 miles long (though you probably know that already) and it goes without saying that marshalling it is a lot more challenging than it would be on a short circuit like Brands Hatch or Donington Park.

For marshalling purposes, the course is covered by 260 marshal posts and is divided into 12 sectors – with a Chief Sector Marshal in charge of that stretch. The orange army relies on strong communication other – and they need to be able to see the adjacent post, hence the sheer number of people required.

Marshals make sure nothing is on the road that shouldn’t be, they operate flags to warn the riders of what’s ahead, help get broken down bikes to safety and play their part in the event of a rider crashing. They’re in position all day, in all weathers, primed and ready for action.

If you want to sign up, you can register on the TT marshals website, or go to the TT Marshals Office behind the Grandstand. You’ll be asked to complete two online training modules, which give the basics – like flags, radio use and the likes – and then you’ll be placed in a sector to get some on the job training with experienced guys.

You’ll get your ID card and orange tabard and, after three sessions, you’ll be able to attend a one-day incident management course, after which you’ll be a fully trained marshal.

Once you have fully qualified you can volunteer to work on any part of the course, giving you a chance to move around and work with different people while experiencing the diversity of the amazing circuit, or stay at a favourite spot with your regular crew. With over 565 marshals and 220 posts, it’s fair to say that no two days will ever be the same!

Although it’s a voluntary role, there are some cool perks to marshalling at the TT. The access, of course is a big thing, as well as knowing that you’re playing a vital role in the running of this iconic event. You also get a free subscription to TT+ and the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company gives a discount on ferry crossings.

There are also daily prize draws, a celebratory Marshals Supper and discounts from various businesses around the island, who recognise the great work done by this incredible orange army of volunteers.

Isle of Man TT race marshals. We salute you!