Happy returns for the MT-OAP: Biking-mad pensioner celebrates 92nd birthday with a trackday

They say you can’t teach an old dog new tricks but 92-year-old Peter Villis has proved them all wrong by enjoying a day at the British Superbike School at Blyton Park aboard a Yamaha MT-09 SP.

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The experience was Peter’s first taste of circuit riding since 1948 and was organised as a surprise birthday treat by his son Gary, 56, who also took to the track on a Yamaha R6. 

“I thoroughly enjoyed it,” Peter told MCN. “I really liked the MT-09 and I said to Gary ‘I’m having one of these’ but I’ve come to my senses and I’m quite happy with my Suzuki Bandit.

“The instructor couldn’t have been better and after a few laps to warm the tyres up we were away,” he continued. “We’ll be up there next year for my 93rd.”

Peter, who has been riding bikes since 1945, marked a new record for the oldest attendee at the school, beating the previous figure of 86. Taking to the track on May 27, he was joined by junior racers as young as 14.

Event organiser Mike Abbott, 69, was full of praise with his performance, saying: “He looked really comfortable on the bike. Peter had no problems at all and we’re now looking for our first 100-year-old rider!”

Mike’s comments were echoed by Peter’s son Gary, who added: “It was an absolutely superb day. We had a cracking time and dad was so impressed by that MT-09 SP. He’s been boring his mates about it ever since!”