Top names for Armoy Race next year

The presence this year of Keith Amor, Ryan Farquhar and the Dunlop Brothers, William and Michael, made it one of the best events in the sporting calendar in the province, but Clerk of the Course, Bill Kennedy, has now revealed that they were within a whisker of getting Cameron Donald and Guy Martin.

Mr. Kennedy had a voice message on his mobile telephone from Donald saying that had he not committed himself to a meeting at Brands Hatch, there was every likelihood of him attending Armoy. And Guy Martin would almost certainly have been another starter had he not been injured.

Mr. Kennedy predicted that the top names were almost certain to come to next year's meeting such is its growing popularity.

"We held a brilliant meeting and that was the view of people who took part as well as those who watched the races. The riders like the course and things can only get better from here on," Mr. Kennedy told the Times.

He added: "The fact that we could have had Guy Martin and Cameron Donald is an indication of the standing Armoy has. But that doesn't take away from what we achieved.

"The racing provided by Ryan Farquhar and Michael and William along with the other riders was nothing short of spectacular and delighted the thousands who attended. Of course, there's plenty we can do to improve things, but in the eyes of the public we ran a pretty good meeting."

Moyle District council officials were delighted that the race has complemented the Oul Lammas Fair in terms of visitor attraction. Bed and breakfasts in the neighbouring villages and towns were full up and Moyle council were more than happy to see their financial support justified with a big boost to the local economy.