Manx driver and French passenger victorious in Le Mans
Manx sidecar competitor Harry Payne has enjoyed double success on the opening weekend of this year's French Sidecar Championships.
The former Ballasalla resident and passenger Kevin Rousseau took on the opening round of the campaign in Le Mans with Steinhausen Racing in what is Payne's third season of 'world championship' competition.
In race one, the pairing took top spot - 22 seconds ahead of their nearest opposition - before claiming first place again in race two, this time with a 17-second advantage come the chequered flag.
What's more, Payne and Rousseau also went on to claim the fastest lap in both contests on their way to victory.
The duo also managed to fend off the efforts of several high-calibre entries such as former French champions, Ted Peugeot and Vincent Peugeot as well as six-time world champion Tim Reeves.
Payne & Rousseau will return to action next weekend for the first round of the 2024 FIM Sidecar World Championship from 18-20 April, again at the Circuit Bugatti in Le Mans.
Traditional sport set to be recognised on coin
Athletics: Manx athlete impresses in US
Football: St Mary's sink Union Mills on disrupted Saturday
Hockey: Bacchas crowned Mixed Prem Champions
FC IoM comeback secures 3-3 draw with Pilkington