Campbell celebrates 80 years of the North West 200

Sports Minister Gregory Campbell today welcomed guests, including riders past and present, to Stormont to mark the 80th anniversary of the North West 200.

Speaking during the reception the Minister said: During the past 80 years the North West 200 has rightly earned a reputation as a world class event and has helped to establish Northern Ireland as the road race capital of the world.

Since its inception in 1929, the North West 200 has grown into one of the fastest road races in the world and continues to attract over 150,000 visitors each year from home and abroad.”

Speaking about the competitors old and new the Minister said: This event attracts the cream of current road racers such as John Maguiness, Michael Rutter and Steve Plate,r to name a few, and previous racers such as Mick Grant who raced to glory in the early 70's.

I would also like to pay tribute to two of the most successful riders in North West 200 history, Joey and Robert Dunlop, who had 13 and 15 wins respectively, and I wish William and Michael Dunlop every success with their races this year.”

North West 200 Clerk of Course, Mervyn Whyte MBE said: The North West 200 organising team is indebted to the Minister, Mr Gregory Campbell and his staff for all their support both in terms of cash funding and strategic advice. It’s been an excellent partnership with DCAL and we really do appreciate their contribution to the event. With their support we have certainly made huge strides creating a bigger and even more professional sporting spectacular.”

The North West race week generates over £7million for Northern Ireland’s economy and demonstrates the huge benefits that major world class events can deliver. Visitors to Northern Ireland will also have the opportunity to see and experience the cultural, historic, natural and social attractions that Northern Ireland has to offer.

In conclusion the Minister said: I would like to thank Mervyn Whyte, his team and all the sponsors for their continuing hard work and support in making this international event happen and, finally, I send my best wishes to all the riders and hope everyone has a safe race.”

Notes to Editors:

1. DCAL operates two funding programmes for events: The Events Growth Fund and the Major Events Fund.
2. In 2008/9 DCAL Events Unit had a budget of over £2.355million.
3. DCAL has awarded £175,000 over three years towards the appointment of a Business Development/ Operations Manager and the development of the events web presence.
4. All media enquiries should be addressed to the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure Press Office. Tel (028) 9051 5045 or email press.office@dcalni.gov.uk. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.