New event coming to The Bowl in Portrush during North West 200 Race Week
Wed, April 17, 2019
The Bowl in Portrush will be transformed into an outdoor stunt arena for a brand new event during this year’s North West 200 Race Week.
Organised by Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, ‘Kickstart’ on Wednesday 15th May will combine a trials competition, stunt shows and circus acts for three hours of unique entertainment from 6pm – 9pm. Riders will use the venue’s grass surfaces and slopes along with man-made structures to showcase their precision skills. Prepare to hold your breath and gasp with delight in equal measure at it is guaranteed to thrill and excite!
To mark the 90th anniversary of the North West 200, heritage and tradition feature throughout the Race Week programme. A number of not-to-be-missed exhibitions bring together bikes, leathers and old photographs to tell the ‘North West’ story in a unique and engaging way. In Green Lane Museum at Roe Valley Country Park, delve in to the history of the Armoy Armada or view a collection of past winners’ classic bikes at the paddock area where a nostalgic cavalcade will really bring nine decades of racing to life.
The Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council Councillor Brenda Chivers said: “We are delighted to celebrate 90 years of the North West 200 with a varied programme for everyone. This sporting attraction gives spectators a chance to enjoy the unique spectacle of road racing in one of the most breath taking parts of the world which sets it apart from any other.
“There is always an atmosphere of excitement surrounding the North West 200 but in this milestone year it is extra special. It has been a part of our fabric since 1929 and as an event partner Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council is proud to help continue the tradition.
"We look forward to welcoming thousands of people to the area in May and we hope it is a memorable occasion for everyone.”
“This is a wonderful Race Week programme to help the International North West 200 celebrate our 90th birthday from May 12th –May 18th,” NW200 Event Director, Mervyn Whyte, MBE, said.
“Causeway Coast and Glens Council has provided huge support for the NW200 down through the years, helping to make it a family festival on the Causeway Coast. This year’s programme provides something for everyone and the new stunt arena in The Bowl will be a huge hit.”
Evening races on Thursday 16th will be followed by live music in the Entertainment Marquee from Justin McGurk and The Boogie Men while the hugely popular ‘Meet the Riders’ returns to Coleraine town centre on Friday 17th featuring some of the sport’s biggest names. There will be lots of opportunities for photographs and autographs between 2pm-4pm.
Later that evening, The Crescent in Portstewart is the place to be for a free outdoor concert with live band Hitlist from 8.30pm – 10.30pm and a spectacular fireworks display to end the night with a bang!
Other highlights in the Entertainment Marquee include:
Monday 13th May - An Audience with Motorcycle Stars (admission £5)
Wednesday 15th May - An evening with Jonathan Rea (admission £10)
Friday 17th May – A classic chat show with past winners (admission £5)
Saturday 18th May – Wrap Up Party (free admission)
For full details about the Race Week Festival go to www.northwest200.org or ring the North West 200 office 028 7035 5800.
