Clough to hit top gear this weekend

The Mid-Antrim 150 races - one of the biggest sporting events on the borough's sporting calendar - blasts off the grid this Saturday, July 31.

With the non-running of the event n 2008 now a distant memory, the Mid-Antrim returned to the Province's road racing schedule in 2009 and organisers are hoping to build on the spectacle, excitement and atmosphere of last year's races.

The event will, as always, be run over the 3.6 mile circuit at Clough, with the start/finish/paddock area situated in the village.

And with road racing kingpin Ryan Farquhar confirming his entry - after a resolution was reached over riding his 450 Kawasaki in the 125cc class - the stage is set for a memorable day's racing.

"As everyone is aware, the costs of promoting an event like the Mid Antrim 150 are ever increasing, so we depend more and more on the generosity of our valued sponsors to enable us to keep the races going," said outgoing Race Secretary Derek McWhirter.

"The club cannot thank our sponsors enough and would appeal to all our press colleagues to give the sponsors as much publicity as possible, as it is they who help to keep our sport going.

"This year's event has greatly benefited by the support of Ballymena Borough Council, and their involvement is appreciated by the club as we strive to make the Mid Antrim 150 the top national Road Race in the racing calendar, with a special thanks to our new Mayor Alderman Maurice Mills.

"In addition to our main sponsors we have many other individuals and businesses that help out by sponsoring various special awards etc, and placing ads in the programme.

"It would take a very long list to include everyone but sincere thanks for all the assistance. Running the Mid Antrim this year will cost approximately 80,000. We would therefore appeal to spectators to come to the Mid Antrim, buy a programme at 10 and/or give a donation.

"It is a requirement that all competitors practice on Friday night and must complete at least 5 timed practice laps before being allowed to compete on race day.

"There is no planned practice for race day so it will be straight into racing after the roads close at 10am for a nine race programme.

"In closing could I pay tribute to the hard working committee members of the Mid Antrim Motor Club, Road Racing Section who have worked so hard to bring back the Mid Antrim 150.

"We have been running everything from cake sales to nineties nights to raise money to keep the show on the road. Well done to all the Club Members who work tirelessly to keep the Mid Antrim on the map, where it should be.

"The prospects for another successful Mid Antrim 150 are good and finally may I wish all competitors, officials, sponsors and spectators a safe and enjoyable race meeting," added Derek.

Don't miss Roy Adams' race-by race Mid-Antrim preview in this week's paper.