Countdown to North West 200 underway

Sports Minister Nelson McCausland this evening outlined the benefits that the forthcoming North West 200 brings to Northern Ireland.

The Minister was speaking at the final press conference for the event which takes place in just over 2 weeks time.

Minister McCausland said: “The NW200 is the jewel in the crown of our road racing season and the biggest sporting occasion in Northern Ireland.  Now in its 81st year the event continues to draw tens of thousands of spectators and competitors from all over the world.  This gives us a wonderful opportunity to showcase our many attractions and allow visitors to experience our first class hospitality.”

In addition to the main race day, the NW200 Race Festival Week also incorporates a weeklong programme of practice nights, community events and charity fundraising functions.  

The Minister highlighted the importance of the event to the tourism industry and to the local economy cannot be underestimated.  He said:  “This festival provides significant economic benefit for the wider region, with the local accommodation sector benefiting through 100% occupancy for at least 4 nights during the festival week. Shops, restaurants and other eateries report high levels of business during the festival week bringing significant benefits to the local economy. This is to be welcomed especially in these hard economic times.”

Also in attendance at the event was Tourism Minister Arlene Foster. She added: “The NW200 is a unique event which showcases Northern Ireland to an international audience. Raising our profile across the globe, it builds on the already impressive reputation Northern Ireland has as a hospitable and welcoming destination with something for everyone.

“Attracting over 100,000 visitors annually, it generates significant revenue for the Northern Ireland economy. The overall economic benefit of the event, encompassing direct and indirect benefits, is projected to be over £5million. Once visitors have experienced race week they often return to Northern Ireland time and time again.”

Notes to editors:

1. The Relentless International North West 200 (NW200) is one of Ireland’s largest annual sporting events and takes place in May every year.
2. The event is run by Coleraine and District Motor Cycle Club, all of whom are volunteers. It features a series of road races by some of the leading names in motorcycling and has an estimated attendance of over 100,000 many travelling from beyond Northern Ireland.
3. In addition to the main race day, Saturday 15th May this year, the NW200 Race Festival Week also incorporates a weeklong programme of practice nights, community events and charity fundraising functions.
4. All media enquiries should be addressed to the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure Press Office. Tel (028) 9025 8901 or email DCAL Press Office Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.