North West 200

Last night I hosted the final media conference at Stormont for the 2010 Relentless International North West 200.

The North West 200 started in 1929 and this is the 81st year of the race.  It is organised by the Coleraien and District Motor club and it is a race with a long history and a great tradition.  It is also one of the fastest road races in the world.

In recent years my department, through Sport Northern Ireland, has contributed significant financial assistance towards health and safety improvements on the circuit, including £100,000 last year and a further £80,000 this year.  This is in addition to government funding of £135,000 given through the Events Unit to support the event.

The North West 200 attracts about 250,000 spectators and brings around £8 million into the local economy.  It is therefore a worthwhile investment and the race is the jewel in the crown of our road racing calendar.