The Book:
Starting racing in 1969, initially as a sidecar passenger, Charlie Williams went on to be one of the best TT riders of his generation, with twenty podium places to his credit including nine wins.
Although sometimes regarded as a TT specialist, Charlie raced with great success not only on the British short circuits but throughout Europe, Australia, China and Japan. Winning the Spa 24hr race at his first attempt in 1973 earned him a place in the Honda Britain Endurance Racing team, producing further success in Italy, France, Spain, Germany and Holland in both 8hr and 24hr events.
After a break from racing of almost ten years he was tempted back to race at the Mallory Park Past Masters event, the ICGP race series, the "Barry Sheene Memorial" race at the Goodwood Revival and, after a thirty year hiatus away from the TT, the 500 Senior race at the Classic TT. Proving that he had lost little of his "flair" Charlie was the best rider in his class at that Classic TT event and shocked many pundits when, along with his mate Mike Farrall he won part one the Barry Sheene Memorial event in 2016 on an eighty three year old motorcycle.
The Film:
"The TT film which started it all.....while the video was essential viewing for anyone into bike racing back in the eighties, it's still as riveting and viewable 30 years later" Streetfighters
In 1980, producer David Wood created an exceptional film capturing the unique atmosphere of the Isle of Man TT – this was the film which would launch Duke Video, the world-leading motorsport film publisher.
The Island is not only an action-packed look at the 1980 TT racing; it is a fascinating snapshot of the excitement, entertainment and enthusiasm which sustained this festival of speed. We witness the Grand National Motocross event, with Andy Roberton leading the way, the extraordinary Arena Trial, featuring stars like Martin Lampkin, and multiple Speedway World Champion Ivan Mauger in grass track action. Then there’s time to meet the fans and sample the other off-track entertainment enjoyed in 1980!
There is also plenty of intense race action from around the Mountain Course to enjoy, as TT greats like Charlie Williams, Mick Grant, Ron Haslam, Mick Boddice and Joey Dunlop do battle. Highlights include the Senior, Junior, Formula Two, Formula Three, Sidecar and Classic TT races. The Island also remembers the days of early morning practice, shows legends Mike Hailwood and Stanley Woods setting off for a parade lap and Williams offering a guided tour of the iconic 37¾-mile circuit.