Issued on behalf of Dundrod & District Motorcycle Club by Carlton Baxter Communications

28 June 2010

ULSTER GRAND PRIX LAUNCHES

BIKE  WEEK 2010

THE World’s Fastest Road Race, the Ulster Grand Prix, was officially launched at a reception hosted by Lisburn City Council today at Lagan Valley Island, Lisburn.

Renowned local racing stars Ryan Farquhar and William Dunlop attended the launch.  They joined the new Mayor of Lisburn, Alderman Paul Porter, Sports Minister Nelson McCausland MLA, members of the Dundrod Club, other guests and new title sponsor, McKinstry Skip Hire, to hear senior race officials’ talk about what Bike Week 2010 has in store.

Mayor of Lisburn, Alderman Paul Porter, welcoming everyone to the launch, said: “In recent years the Dundrod & Motorcycle Club has had to overcome a number of major challenges to ensure the continuation of the Ulster Grand Prix.  Earlier in the year, the Club approached the Council to seek support to ensure that the 2010 event occurred.  I am very pleased that both Council elected members and officers have put considerable time and effort into looking at the sustainability of this major Northern Ireland sporting event to continue to take place in Lisburn.”

President of the Club, James Courtney, addressed guests: “I think everyone will agree that Bike Week 2009 saw some truly exceptional racing which has reignited excitement and enthusiasm for the Ulster Grand Prix after the weather quite literally put a dampener on proceedings the previous year.

“We’re confident we can build on that success and continue to attract today’s top road racers.  Last year we retained the accolade of ‘World’s Fastest Road Race’ when Conor Cummins broke all existing records with an eye watering 133mph lap.  Although Conor will unfortunately be unable to defend his title this August, I’ve no doubt that others such as Ian Hutchinson who were snapping at his heels last year, will be doing their best to match or better it this time around.

“All in all, Bike Week promises to be a real thrilling spectacle for spectators and racers alike,” he added.

Sports Minister Nelson McCausland added:  “Road racing is part of the sporting and cultural fabric of Northern Ireland and the Ulster Grand Prix continues to be one of the most popular motorsport events here.  I would like to wish the event organisers every success for Bike Week 2010.”

As ever, the importance of safety was a key message at the launch.

Clerk of the Course, Noel Johnston had this to say: “I’m always looking for ways to improve the safety of the circuit.  Over the last number of years, we’ve spent about £400,000 making safety improvements such as removable fencing.

“I’m responsible not only for putting on a great day of racing but also for doing my utmost to ensure that everyone goes home safe and well at the end of the day.  That is the least that the riders and the fans deserve and I take that responsibility very seriously.”

Mr Johnston also spoke about recent improvements to the functionality of the paddock and the circuit.

“In the last year, we undertook major drainage work to the paddock and feedback from the participants would suggest it was well worthwhile.  In addition to this, we recently resurfaced the road between the start/finish line and Leathemstown and the circuit is now in tip top shape,” he said.

Councillor David Archer, Chairman of the Council’s Leisure Services Committee, who was also present at the launch, said: “I am pleased that the Council has been able to provide further funding for the event and its marketing.  As one of the top sporting events in the Province, the Council is pleased to be associated with the event and it has indicated that it will work with the Club and other interested parties to ensure the event continues and more importantly develops, on the Dundrod circuit.”

James Courtney concluded: “I’d like to finish by thanking Lisburn City Council and the Northern Ireland Tourist Board for their generous support.  I’d also like to welcome our new title sponsor McKinstry Skip Hire.  Without support and sponsorship from these organisations, the event wouldn’t be possible.”

For further information and updates on the Ulster Grand Prix, visit www.ulstergrandprix.net or search for ‘Ulster Grand Prix’ on Facebook and join the official fan page.

ENDS

For more information please contact Rachel Capper at Carlton Baxter Communications on 028 9032 5533 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

Notes to Editors

Admission

Admission to Ulster Grand Prix Bike Week is by wristband at a cost of £15.  This includes entry to practice on Wednesday 11 August, Dundrod 150 races on Thursday 12 August, main race day on Saturday 14 August and access to the paddock all week.

Bike Week Schedule

Sunday 8 August

Wall of death, trial star stunt show

Sponsored walk – one lap of the Dundrod circuit

Monday 9 August

Wall of death, trial star stunt show

30 Motorcycle Club of Ireland depart LVI to visit Dundrod circuit stopping briefly at the Pits before displaying their classic and other bikes at LVI

Tuesday 10 August

Wall of death, trial star stunt show

David Jeffries Memorial Super Moto racing at Nutt’s Corner

Wednesday 11 August

Wall of death, trial star stunt show

Practice day

Evening – Amateur boxing tournament

Thursday 12 August

Wall of death, trial star stunt show

Dundrod 150 races

Evening - UGP Supporters Club chat show

Friday 13 August

Wall of death, trial star stunt show

6.30pm onwards - Auto test in the paddock, Belfast Community Circus

8 til late musical entertainment in bar marquee

Saturday 14 August

Before races begin – David McCall Memorial bicycle race round circuit

Main races

8 til late – Chequered flag wrap up party – everybody welcome

Visit www.ulstergrandprix.net for further details and timings