Robinson launches International North West 200

First Minister the Rt Hon Peter D. Robinson MLA and Tourism Minister Arlene Foster MLA today joined some of the UK and Northern Ireland’s top names in road racing to launch the 2012 Relentless International North West 200.
~ Tuesday, 24 January 2012

The North West 200 annual motorcycle race meeting will be held in May and is one of Northern Ireland’s largest annual sporting events.

Speaking at the launch the First Minister said: "The North West 200 has been a staple of our sporting, cultural and tourism calendar for many years and the thrilling contribution the North West will make to the world-class programme of 2012 events in Northern Ireland is to be welcomed.

"The North West 200 fully deserves its reputation as a world class event. I pay tribute to the work of the Coleraine and District Motor Club and the many volunteers who year on year work hard to make the event the success that it has become. I am confident that this year’s event will attract participants and spectators from across the globe and will cement Northern Ireland’s reputation as the premier motor cycle road racing destination.”

"2012 will be a memorable year of events celebrating everything Northern Ireland has to offer as a place to visit. Tourism has key role to play in the economic development of Northern Ireland and the Executive has placed its development at the heart of its draft Programme for Government."

Tourism Minister Arlene Foster said: "With each passing year the NW200 has grown in stature and standing, becoming world renowned as a must-see event in the sporting calendar. The introduction of improved spectator facilities, an additional day’s racing and a wider range of activities during the festival week not only raises the bar for this event but contributes to a better and more memorable experience for visitors.

“With so many outstanding celebrations and commemorations, this is a pivotal year for tourism in Northern Ireland and the NW200 will contribute to an amazing portfolio of events on offer. NI2012 is our time to shine both close to home and on the international stage.

“Key tourism events, such as the NW200, has been recognised as having an important role to play in contributing to the economy with the ability to deliver a competitive advantage for Northern Ireland. As well as generating substantial visitor expenditure, events add value to the positive perceptions and profile of our destination.