Thundersprint : 'It was the best yet'

7:06pm Monday 12th May 2008

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SCORCHING weather resulted in crowds pouring into Northwich town centre for the 11th annual Thundersprint.

Thousands of biking enthusiasts travelled from far and wide to take in the atmosphere and to meet their heroes.

I think it’s the best we’ve ever had. The weather was fantastic, much better than last year

Six-time World Champion Jim Redman

Event organiser Frank Melling said this year's event was the best yet.

"The Thundersprint is a very intense experience. You are very vulnerable when you are on the track", he said.

"There's 20,000 people in the grandstands watching, and you have to make sure your head is clear."

The day's events kicked off with a cavalcade of motorbikes from past and present, through the streets of Northwich town centre.

It was then followed by bikers from the past, and present, racing around Baron's Quay car park.

Entertainment was on offer from the Cheshire Cheer cheerleaders, along with inflatable slides and fairground rides.

This year saw 15-time world champion Giacomo Agostini take part in the event for the first time. In his distinctive leather's he showed off his skills to the bumper crowds.

Frank added: "Giacomo thought it was crazy. He kept saying you can't do this, it's crazy'.

"He loved it to death."

Six-time World Champion Jim Redman said: "I think it's the best we've ever had. The weather was fantastic, much better than last year, plus we had Giacomo over as well.

"To me it looked like we've never had as many people in the streets."

Frank added that a couple of spectators were treated by ambulance crews, which was one reason why racing had to stop for 40 minutes because of a lack of ambulances track side.

Watch our video from the day by visiting our website, northwichguardian.co.uk, and clicking on video news.

l Were you at the Thundersprint? What did you think about the day? Let us know at northwichguardian.co.uk/forums