2002
Coca Cola International
North West 200
Motorcycle Road Races
Press Release
19th February 2002
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The sky's the limit with the Velux Roof Windows North West 200 Superbike race
Velux Roof Windows today confirmed that they would once again be a race sponsor at this year's Coca-Cola International North West 200.Speaking at tonight's press conference to announce the sponsorship Mervyn Whyte, Clerk of the Course said: "We are delighted to welcome back Velux Roof Windows as the sponsor of the main Superbike race at this year's Coca-Cola International North West 200. Velux Roof Windows Company have been the world market leader of roof windows for over fifty years and we are delighted to have them involved once again. The Velux Superbike Race will be the last race of the day and undoubtedly one of the highlights of the event."
Bill Lindsay, Sales Manager for Velux explains: "Velux is delighted to have been given the opportunity to sponsor the main Superbike race at the biggest sporting event in Ireland. The Coca-Cola International North West 200 is a fantastic event and one which we're proud to be associated with. I wish Mervyn Whyte, and everyone involved in this year's event, a safe and successful race week."
Further details have also been released regarding the £75,000 grant from the Northern Ireland Events Company. Mervyn Whyte confirmed that the government funded Northern Ireland Events Company had pledged £75,000 towards the event this year, he said: "This is a fantastic boost to the event and we are deeply indebted to the Events Company for their generous support. The money will be used to help raise the international profile of the event and attract top riders from around the globe".
Janice McAleese, Company Secretary of the Northern Ireland Events Company said: "Although a well-established event the full international potential of the Coca-Cola International North West 200 has not been realised, we look forward to working with the event organisers to target the international market, promote a positive image of Northern Ireland globally and encourage more visitors to our shores".
Already this has had an impact with Eddie Johnston revealing that he has just signed up the Ian Simpson managed team of John Crawford and Ross McCulloch. He added: "John has been confirmed as the rider who will contest the British Superbike championship for the re-vamped Alistair Flanagan RTI, Elac-Trac race team. Crawford, who was the 1998 and 1999 British 600cc champion, will use the 1000cc Suzuki superbike machinery and will also ride in the 600cc class.
"Ross McCulloch, a newcomer to the Coca-Cola international North West, will be riding the superstock Suzuki in the Production class and will also compete in the 600cc class." Eddie continued that, "over 40 entries have already been returned, with regulations out only last week we are delighted with the response and the interest shown in all classes."
He also indicated that he was in advanced stages of discussions with a number of other top racing teams.
This year's event sees another newcomer in the form of Careva Publishing, who will be producing the Race programme. Careva currently produce the Irish Racer magazine. This is a big step for the Coleraine club who had previously produced the programme themselves but now feel it is the right time to give the programme to a professional team who will upgrade the quality and profile of the programme.
Notes to Editors:
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