The ISDT 1960 ended in much controversy after extremely hard ground conditions created a controversial result which then changed on appeal to become even more controversial. The going was considered hard for many with many hills so steep they were full of stranded riders. On the other hand it was the event which saw the introduction of the daily special test based on off road going which now is a main feature in the event to decide who the daily winners will be.

“ISDT Seen from the Saddle”

In an article for Motor Cycling 6 October 1960 Ken Heanes provided a insight into the event from a British Trophy team riders point of view that is of great interest to anyone with a deep interest into the event and politics of racing.

From the pen of Ken Heanes…

Photo – Ken Heanes plus ISDT Triumph outside his extended premises at Fleet, Hants. The attractive facade like all the other building work, was done by Ken and his Uncle.

PLENTY of printers’ ink has already flowed through the presses, fed by on the- spot reporters from the I.S.D.T., and plenty more will probably be needed to cope with the criticisms of spectators and armchair strategists. But how did the-man-in-the-saddle see it? Last week Norman Sharpe went down to Fleet, Hants., to talk to Ken Heanes, the most experienced of all this year’s British teamsters, who has amassed three “golds” and a near-miss .. sliver” since he took part in his first International exactly 10 years ago when he was just 16. This is his report:

Continue reading →