Sponsorship boost for Kells rider

KELLS rider Corran Smyth, a man who has been on the end of more than a jibe or two from me, has had his backing from Ballymena-based GS Motorcycles extended into the 2010 season.

The Pennybridge Suzuki dealership helped Corran last year, and with the local man taking part in selected short circuits and road races, including Horice in the Czech Republic, for the first time, he has asked me to thank all concerned with his racing efforts.

Many thanks to Robert, at Maximuscle NI, in Ballymena, Barry, from Barry's Diner, for sound advice that can be trusted, unlike mine. (He still wont believe me that Debtors can be taken flat in fifth on a 1000 Suzuki.) Mid Antrim Media, for PR and photos and abuse in equal measures during the season, and to his partner JoJo, for putting up with his spending habits.

Not to mention, again, John and James from GS Motorcycles in Pennybridge.

Corran's bike can be seen on the GS stand at this weekends Kings Hall Bike Show.

Anyone who might like to lavish some additional backing on the local man can contact Mid Antrim Media on 07540 608757.

MCUI TRAINING SCHOOL

Although I was unable to attend the Training School at Kirkistown on Sunday, I understand from those who were at it that as usual, the Centre's instructors did a good job of setting the newcomers on their way with sensible advice.

They covered things from gearing to diet, and bike set up.

As I mentioned last week, there will be no second school, which was planned for next week, but the final bout, if you like, will be the following weekend, the 21st.

Hopefully, I will get to that one, as I was at the Odyssey Indoor Athletics last weekend, and didn't make Kirkistown.

KINGS HALL SHOW

As you will have read last week, the Kings Hall Show starts this Friday, and runs until Sunday.

It will be officially opened by Toomebridge man Eugene Laverty and Boyzone star Shane Lynch. I won't go over the info I gave you again, but it will feature plenty of different things that will be of interest to the local bike fans.

It's one of those things that you feel like you have missed something unless you go. Not that I ever had any notion of not going.

NORTH WEST SUPPORTERS CLUB

As preparations continue for this year's North West, their supporters club, fronted by Larne man Laurits Mackness have launched their 2010 recruitment drive.

Last year the club were able to donate 26,000 to the organisers of the race, plus an additional 1,500 from sales of programmes.

The club have been forced to increase the membership this year to 7, but with all proceeds going back to the Coleraine club, its bound to be money well spent.

Laurits and Ina will be at this weekends show, and will be happy to chat to any potential new members, and especially anyone who will be able to help 'on the ground' with giving of their free time.

The committee now consists of just two people, and it’s essential that new blood is brought forward into the club to help with the collecting of much needed money to allow the race to grow.

In his Chairmans letter, Laurits takes a few moments to remember Mark Young, Andrew Neill and Padraig Campbell, as well as Hill McCooke, the spectator who died in an accident at Armoy, and to convey his best wishes to their families.

So, when you are at the Kings hall this weekend, wander over and join the supporters club, and help ensure the future of the North West.

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