The man that could win ON ANYTHING
TONY RUTTER LEFT US FOR THE great racetrack in the sky on the morning of Tuesday, March 24, aged 78. He was one of the finest racers of his era, as quick on short circuits as he was the roads, yet modest, unassuming and, perhaps, unappreciated as a rider who let his results do the talking.
He was a winner wherever he went, enjoying success on everything from a 125 to a 1000cc Honda. A statement from Tony’s son Michael confirmed his dad’s passing and paid tribute to his achievements:
“It is with sadness that after a period of poor health, dad passed away earlier today. I was with him when he died at about 2am and he was very peaceful.
“It makes me smile how dad lived his life exactly how he wanted to and how he got away with so much!
“He will probably be best remembered for winning the world TT-F2 championship four times on a Ducati, as well as seven Isle of Man TT wins, nine North West 200 wins, and two British championship titles [the 1971 350 and 1973 250cc trophies], during his 22-year career.
“I’d like to say a big thank you to his carers for taking such good care of him, and also to his fans and supporters.”
I was fortunate enough to interview Tony Rutter a few years ago in the company of a good mutual friend, Pat Slinn. Pat first knew Tony as part of a group of
