Motorsport is asset to NI tourist industry says McGimpsey

With the Stena Line Ulster Rally getting under way in Belfast today, Sports Minister, Michael McGimpsey says 'speed sport' is helping to promote Northern Ireland as a visitor destination.

The Minister was speaking in Belfast City Centre where he was flagging away the first cars in this year’s two-day International Ulster Rally.

Over the course of the Rally's 15 stages the drivers will cover almost 350 miles in Counties Antrim, Londonderry and Tyrone.

Praising the organisers and sponsors of the Ulster Rally, Mr McGimpsey said: “For many years, Northern Ireland has had a reputation for producing top performers on both two wheels and four. Many of them have become household names at home and abroad and their fame has helped to put the Province in the international sporting arena.

“I have no doubt that their achievements have also helped to attract sportsmen and women from around the world to take part in events such as the International Ulster Rally, the North West 200 and the Ulster Grand Prix. All of these events present ideal opportunities to give overseas competitors and their friends a taste of the real Northern Ireland and help to promote our country as a tourist destination.

“We have much to offer our visitors and I am delighted to welcome them all here today. I trust that they will enjoy their stay with us.”

The Minister was met at the starting line by the event organiser, David Gray, and introduced to the Clerk of the Course, Phillip Murray.

One of the Province's top motorsport events this year's Stena Line Ulster Rally will count towards a number of championships. Many local eyes will be on Armagh man Andrew Nesbitt in his Subaru Impreza WRC as he fights it out for honours in the Tarmac series. Although Dungannon's rising star Kris Meeke driving a Ford Puma will start in fourth position as starting priority in this year's Ulster Rally goes to the British series contenders.

The competitors made their way on Friday afternoon to the first of the day's six stages in County Antrim. Tomorrow will see the drivers tackle nine stages in Counties Tyrone and Londonderry.

(SP)