Startline Ep 60 - Ben Wilkinson: From Birmingham to Bray Hill, the MGP dream
Start Line with Beth Espey
Thursday, 10 September 2026 - 41 minutes
Ben Wilkinson has one goal firmly in his sights: racing at the Manx Grand Prix.
After beginning on motocross bikes at the age of 11, Ben moved into circuit racing before turning his attention to the roads. But his journey suffered a painful setback following this year’s Southern 100, when a low-speed road-bike accident left his shoulder broken in four places and his arm out of its socket for four days.
In this episode of the Startline Road Racing Podcast, Ben talks candidly about the physical and mental challenge of recovery, the family and friends helping to rebuild him, and why the accident hasn’t diminished his determination to race again - although it does mean the garden has been neglected...
We also hear why his first Manx Grand Prix application was unsuccessful, what he needs to do next and why, however long it takes, Ben won’t stop until he reaches the startline.
We're also joined by Ben's friend Kean, who's quickly proved he's got what it takes to be a crucial part of the team.
And in this episode, we also catch up with former guest Shane Doran who did his first MGP in 2026.
You can follow Ben's Peach Racing page on Facebook here.
The Startline podcast is brought to you in partnership with the Manx Motorcycle Club, the Promoter and Rights holder for the Manx Grand Prix.Startline is on Facebook and Instagram, so please give the pages a follow and keep up to date with the latest episodes and see some extra content, you can find some great photos on there.
And if you'd like to be part of the podcast, you can email beth@startline.im
