Entries for this year's Isle of Man TT Races must be in by February 27 with the event already looking oversubscribed with a huge influx of newcomers and foreign riders making their debut.

Organisers ACU Events have stated that entries must be in by the February 27 deadline but is encouraging would-be competitors to get their forms in as soon as possible.

A statement said: "A large number of newcomers have already committed to taking part in the 2009 TT, as well as a number of last year’s leading Manx Grand Prix competitors.

"In a successful programme, a number of new, young riders visited the Island in September 2008 for the Manx Grand Prix and several of them are expected to sign up to race.

"Fans can also expect a host of top name riders to line up on Glencrutchery Road in 2009.’

"The 2008 races saw some of the closest racing in the event’s 101-year history, with nine different riders achieving podiums, and this is expected to be repeated in 2009 with a number of potential winners already confirmed to race again this year."

Riders wishing to take part in either the Billown TT or the TTXGP have until March 31st to send in their forms.