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Attwood launches world’s largest powerboat race in Belfast

Friday, 4 June 2010

Social Development Minister Alex Attwood today officially launched the Belfast Zapcat Racing Grand Prix in Belfast for the first time.

Zapcats are one of the largest powerboats in the world. They’re regarded as being the most entertaining, delivering the highest speed action. Now racing for 10 years in the UK, it will be its first time the event has been held in Belfast and the first City Championship venue of the 2010 National Championship season

Alex Attwood said: “This is an exciting new event which will provide a wonderful opportunity to promote the use of the River Lagan for recreational and leisure activities.

“I would encourage people to come and watch this thrilling power boat event by taking advantage of the many great vantage points along the river. This event will provide a packed programme of spectacular racing which can be enjoyed by the whole family. I would like to wish Zapcat Racing Grand Prix every success this year.”

The Belfast Zapcat Racing Grand Prix is part of the National Championships. It will be held over two days on the River Lagan between the Albert and Queens Bridges on the 5 and 6 June 2010 as part of the Belfast Maritime Festival.

Notes to editors:

  1. Social Development Minister Alex Attwood, MLA will launch the Belfast Zapcat Grand Prix Race at 11am Friday 4 June at the Lagan Weir. DSD is providing £6,650 financial support under the Laganside Events Grant Scheme for the Belfast Zapcat Racing Grand Prix which is taking place on 5 and 6 June 2010.
  2. The Laganside Events Grant scheme supports events that play a part in the regeneration of the Laganside Designated Area including the River Lagan, encouraging local involvement and community and business participation.
  3. The total cost of the Belfast Zapcat Racing Grand Prix 2010 is £35,887.
  4. Media enquiries to Bridgeen Rea DSD Information Office on 028 9082 9078 mobile 07875 765 455. Out of office hours, contact the EIS Duty Press Officer on pager 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.