Government House hosted an evening of celebration to mark the conclusion of the 2026 Manx Grand Prix and Classic TT, bringing together riders, organisers, marshals and others involved in the event.

His Excellency hosted the reception on Wednesday, with guests enjoying late summer sunshine in the gardens.

This year’s event concluded earlier than scheduled after the Senior Race was brought forward in response to a forecast of poor weather.

Government House described it as a ‘difficult, but ultimately right’ decision, which allowed the racing programme to be completed safely and in good conditions before the weather arrived.

His Excellency welcomed guests and paid tribute to those whose hard work and judgement helped bring the meeting to a successful conclusion.

The big story of the racing came from Johnny Stewart, who made Manx Grand Prix history by becoming the first rider to win four races at a single meeting.

The Galashiels rider completed his fourth victory on Monday, finishing 35.823 seconds ahead of Eddy Wormald.

There was also recognition for local talent at the reception, with Lady Lorimer presenting Illiam Quayle with the Lady Hill Rose Bowl for the best performance by a local resident in the Senior MGP.

The Manx debutant, son of ‘Milky’ Quayle, finished 18th in the race during his first appearance at the meeting.

Government House said the reception also recognised the considerable work behind the scenes, with organisers, Isle of Man TT Marshals and others who help stage the event among those attending.

Former racer Les Trotter was also among the guests. He won the Senior MGP in 1976 riding a Crooks Suzuki.

Government House said his presence was a reminder of the history and tradition associated with the event.

The reception provided an opportunity for those involved in this year’s meeting to reflect on its conclusion and recognise the contribution of competitors, organisers, marshals and volunteers.

All photographs: Dave Kneale (www.governmenthousephotos.com).

A reception at Government House for the Manx Grand Prix and Classic TT
A reception at Government House for the Manx Grand Prix and Classic TT (Dave Kneale (www.governmenthousephotos.com))
The historic trophies were proudly on display
The historic trophies were proudly on display (Dave Kneale (www.governmenthousephotos.com))
Lieutenant Governor Sir John Lorimer welcomes Manx Grand Prix's Sam Bowers
Lieutenant Governor Sir John Lorimer welcomes part of the Manx Grand Prix's broadcasting team Sam Bowers (Dave Kneale (www.governmenthousephotos.com))
Manx debutant Illiam Quayle receiving the Lady Hill Trophy for the best performance by a local rider in the Senior Race, pictured with Mum Lydia and dad Richard (Milky)
Manx debutant Illiam Quayle receiving the Lady Hill Trophy for the best performance by a local rider in the Senior Manx Grand Prix, pictured with Mum Lydia and dad Richard (Milky) (Dave Kneale (www.governmenthousephotos.com))
The Manx Motorcycle Club team
The Manx Motorcycle Club team (Dave Kneale (www.governmenthousephotos.com))
(L-r) Former competitor and ten time TT winner Ian Lougher, Manx Motorcycle Club President Phil Taubman MBE and Lougher's wife Asa
(L-r) Former competitor and ten time TT winner Ian Lougher, Manx Motorcycle Club President Phil Taubman MBE and Lougher's wife Asa (Dave Kneale (www.governmenthousephotos.com))
Lieutenant Governor Sir John Lorimer welcomes David Mylchreest, Honorary Vice President
Lieutenant Governor Sir John Lorimer welcomes David Mylchreest, Honorary Vice President (Dave Kneale (www.governmenthousephotos.com))
Lieutenant Governor Sir John Lorimer addresses special guests at the Manx Grand Prix/Classic TT reception
Lieutenant Governor Sir John Lorimer addresses special guests at the Manx Grand Prix/Classic TT reception (Dave Kneale (www.governmenthousephotos.com))
Members of the Moddey Dhoo Motorcycle Club
Members of the Moddey Dhoo Motorcycle Club (Dave Kneale (www.governmenthousephotos.com) )