Ledgowan Lodge Hotel

An Evening & Ride with Paul Smart...

Motorcycle Racer Paul Smart is a legend. Along with Mike Hailwood, one of only two British riders to have a Manufacturer name a production motorcycle in their honour – funnily enough, both by Ducati. Paul's win on a Ducati at the Imola 200 in 1972 arguably set the Italian marque on the road to future World Superbike and MotoGP success...

Paul's career spanned motorcycle racing's golden era; from 1963 to 1978 he raced Triumph, Kawasaki, Ducati and Suzuki machines. In the 70s he raced at Grand Prix level gaining 7 podiums from 10 starts. Most would say Imola in 72 was his finest hour but Paul believes that beating Phil Read at the Brands Hatch 'Hutchinson 100' race was a greater achievement.

A private man, you will not find many pictures or press interviews with Paul Smart, he tended to be overshadowed by Brother In Law, Barry Sheene. But to those who know him, Paul is a great personality, a committed motorcyclist, a mine of information on classic bikes - and full of racing anecdotes.

Now you can not only spend an exclusive evening in his company but also enjoy a ride-out with him on the glorious roads of the West Highlands of Scotland the next day!

This fantastic opportunity to ride with a great and hear first hand why that Brands win ranks higher than Imola, is only available to 10 guests and will take place on the 17^th and 18^th May 2011 at the spectacular location of the Ledgowan Lodge Hotel in Achnasheen, Ross-shire.

THE ITINERARY

Tuesday 17^th May:

*Check in from 14:00, relax in this former Highland shooting lodge

*Enjoy pre-dinner drinks with Paul followed by a 3 course meal

*After dinner, at the table and later in the bar, reminisce with Paul about his racing career

Wednesday 18^th May:

*Breakfast from 08:00

* Engines start at 09:00 for a morning ride led by Paul

* Return for lunch at 13:00 and then departure

THE COST

This evening event and morning ride to remember, with a British racing great, is just £185 per person including accommodation and all meals as detailed above.

But HURRY, there are only 10 places available!

* Paul Smart Imola photograph courtesy of Frank Melling

A short history of Ledgowan Lodge Hotel

The hotel was originally built as a private shooting lodge in 1904, for a Major Ross as part of his 8,500 acre Ledgowan estate. It took six years to complete, being virtually 'hand' built. However, due to the high costs involved in running the estate it was sold to Lord Latymer of Coutts Bank, London. It remained in the family until the second World War, when the army used it as a barracks for their officers, but keeping it in top class condition. After the war Ledgowan remained empty for around 15 years. It was then discreetly converted into a country house hotel, and separated from the estate, although retaining most of its original charm and character.