Lancashire rider John McGuinness has overcome a bout of chronic pneumonia to be part of the Honda challenge at this year's Isle of Man TT races.

The 27-year-old looked as if he would miss the annual festival after being diagnosed with the illness at the end of March but he is now back to full fitness.

"It was a bit of a scare as I didn't know what was wrong with me at first,"admitted the Honda rider.

"I felt really miserable when I was in Johannesburg for the first World Supersport round but at first I thought it was just a bad flu.

"I had blurred vision, I could not eat and couldn't go to the toilet.

"I went to the hospital and they diagnosed chronic pneumonia which had been catching up on me for a few months.

"I went onto a course of antibiotics and although I missed the championship round at Sugo, I am now back and feeling great."

"I managed to get some useful track time at Monza and at the North West 200 road races in Northern Ireland.

"It was disappointing to miss out on the public road races last year but I am determined to come back with a bang this year."

McGuinness made his debut on the famous Mountain Course in 1996 and has taken wins in the 250cc Lightweight and the single cylinder class.

"I am hopeful of doing well this year as I know the bike is competitive after my win at the Macau Grand Prix in November.

"It seemed to be a bit of a rushed job to get the Hondas ready for the TT in 2000 as the equipment arrived late but this machine is the finished article.

Busy fortnight

"We have all the special parts and a lot of work has gone into preparing the engine of the 954cc Fireblade."

The former bricklayer is expecting to encounter some tough competition on Mona's Isle.

"I am competing in six races so it will be a very busy fortnight during both practising and racing.

"There are seven or eight riders who are capable of winning each race but I will be trying my best to record a third TT win."

McGuinness overcame handling problems to finish third in the showpiece Formula One event in 2000 on a circuit he enjoys.

"I love road racing and have been going to the TT since I was a young lad to spectate.

"I used to ride round the Island on my bicycle and it was a dream come true to be able to race at the course.

"Having said that, you have to know your limits on road circuits and I get a bit more apprehensive before a race at the TT than would normally be the case.

"You are aware that the dangers exist and there is a bit of extra pressure when you are expected to do well but it is something you try not to think about it."