North West 200 ‘Jewel’ In Tourism Crown

One of NI’s most popular sporting events has been praised as Stormont Sports Minister Nelson McCausland joined with the North West organisers in launching the 2010 International North West 200.

Speaking at the reception in the Waterfront Hall, the Minister said: “Last year proved particularly challenging for event organisers across Northern Ireland due to the recession and difficult weather conditions.

“Despite this, the North West 200 was attended by 150,000 visitors and continues to be one of the biggest sporting occasions in Ireland,” he said, noting those figures are “testament to a world-class event which is loved by both riders and spectators”.

Local Ulster Unionist East Londonderry MLA David McClarty has also welcomed the launch of the North West 200 Festival.

“It remains a tremendous asset to the North West, and to Northern Ireland as a whole,” he said, adding that it is growing year-on-year.

“It is undoubtedly the jewel in the crown of Northern Ireland’s spectator events,” he said.

Nelson McCausland, speaking at the launch, continued: “The International North West 200 race week festival perfectly demonstrates the huge benefits that world-class events can deliver.

“It has raised the profile of Northern Ireland across the globe, drawing international attention not just on the excitement of the races but also on the many attractions that Northern Ireland has to offer to visitors.

“My Department has worked closely with the Coleraine and District Motor Club and its partners to secure the delivery of the event in 2010 and to move the event towards a sustainable future.”

The Minister also went on to say that it is ‘value for money’ noting that, in the challenging economic environment, “events must be sustainable and offer visitors an outstanding experience”.

“My Department has recognised the potential of the North West 200 and has invested in its future.

“I am confident that this is money well spent. It will enhance the sustainability of the event and ensure that the benefits of staging it will be felt across Northern Ireland for many years to come,” he concluded.

Categories: Sporting Events

Tags: Nelson McCausland, North West 200 race week festival, Northern Ireland, Sporting Events

About Adam Parry

Adam Parry is the editor for Event Industry News. If you would like to get in touch and learn more about Event Industry News email editor@eventindustrynews.co.uk.