Stars pay tribute to Hutchy’s Torrens Trophy success

Some of the biggest names in motorsport have paid tribute to Ian Hutchinson after his success in winning the coveted Torrens Trophy, the Royal Automobile Club’s award for those who are considered to have made an outstanding contribution to safe or skilful motor cycling in Britain.

Hutchy took the award for his incredible comeback form potential amputation following a horrific crash at Silverstone in 2010 to win three TTS at this year’s event, inspiring the judging panel so much that he beat stiff opposition from World Champions Danny Kent and Jonathan Rea.

Former F1 commentator Murray Walker, whose father George was a TT racer, said “I first went to the TT in 1925 and have been lucky enough to know most of the greats of our sport but none of them has earned my admiration and respect more than Ian Hutchinson. Uniquely to win five races in one TT year was amazing but even this was topped by Ian`s awesome courage and determination to race again after his subsequent appalling leg injuries.

“And now he has emphasised his skill and bravery by winning another three TTs in one week – plus a dominant victory at Macau. Truly brilliant! All done with quiet modesty and, as a truly worthy winner of the Torrens Trophy, Ian joins the legends of our great sport. I warmly congratulate him, salute his personality and achievements and look forward to following the development of his great career’.

John Surtees CBE, the only man to win both F1 and MotoGP titles, added “I would like to congratulate Ian Hutchinson on receiving this award.  I am particularly impressed that having first tasted success on the Isle of Man he should fight back from such adversity following that accident by returning to winning form in the 2015 TT.  May I add my congratulations to this wonderful personal achievement.”

Former World Superbike champion and previous Torrens Trophy winner James Toseland said ‘To go from the highest point of his career to the lowest within days must have been a psychological rollercoaster to say the least. We are all very proud of Hutchy for keeping the belief and finding the inner strength to keep going through such adversity, pain and frustration for such a long period of time to being able to ride competitively again.

“To go from winning 5 TT’s to nearly losing his leg to then get back onto the top step in one of the most physical motorcycle races there is, is an amazing achievement and show of character. Hutchy very much deserves this award today and I wish him all the very best for this season coming and hopefully many more TT victories to come!”