Relentless is new sponsor of North West 200

Saturday, May 15 will be the date for the 2010 Relentless International North West 200 in association with Black Horse.

A full week of events is currently in planning for Race Week which last year attracted crowds in excess of 150,000 people as well as some of the world’s top riders.

Race Director Mervyn Whyte MBE, right, said:“The Relentless brand very much captures the spirit of the sport and we are delighted to welcome Relentless to the International North West 200. For many years, Black Horse has provided valuable sponsorship support to the North West 200 and I warmly welcome them onboard as this year’s associate sponsor.

“Each year, the North West 200 team works hard to ensure an even bigger and better event for riders and spectators alike. With a new title sponsor, refreshed brand and already strong line-up of competitors, we hope the 2010 Relentless International North West 200 in association with Black Horse will be a year to remember”, said Mervyn Whyte.

Riders including Steve Plater, John McGuinness, Alastair Seeley, Bruce Anstey, Ian Lougher, Michael Dunlop, William Dunlop and Michael Rutter were in attendance at the launch, held in the Waterfront Hall in Belfast, to hear plans for 2010.

Sports Minister Nelson McCausland wished organisers well.

“This racing event is renowned as a world-class circuit for road racing which is loved by both riders and spectators. In 2009, it saw more than 150,000 bike fans from across the UK, Europe and beyond come to Northern Ireland. It also showcases Northern Ireland as a tourist destination which can host world-class sporting events.”

Maire Campbell of Relentless said, “On behalf of Relentless energy drink we are proud to be title sponsor of Ireland’s most prestigious motor racing event.

“The North West 200 brings so much to Northern Ireland not only attracting the highest calibre of sporting personalities which includes our own Relentless Suzuki by TAS Racing team, it also attracts tourism and boosts the local economy, giving Northern Ireland international exposure.”

Dave Macey, Market and Franchise Development Manager of Black Horse, said, “Black Horse has been a race sponsor of the International North West 200 since 2002. Each year has seen the event grow from strength to strength and we are delighted to now be associate sponsor of this very special road racing event.”

A new North West 200 logo, designed by Pierce Communications and incorporating the Relentless and Black Horse brands, was also unveiled at the launch event.

Mervyn Whyte added: “The North West 200 team receives so much valuable support from a wide range of organisations and companies. We are deeply grateful for the help from a wide range of organisations including DCAL, Coleraine Borough Council, Sport NI, 2&4 Wheel MSG, NITB and Tourism Ireland as well as our title, associate and race sponsors.”