Alastair Seeley has given his backing to a new campaign encouraging supporters to get involved in this year's North West 200 event in Northern Ireland.
The local rider had a successful time in 2010, finishing in the podium in both Superbike races, winning race two. He also dominated the Supersport races, winning both in what was a memorable week for the Northern Irishman.
Seeley will return to the roads of Coleraine this year, and the Relentless TAS Suzuki rider features in a brand new campaign, 'Join the NW200 Wave' designed to encourage the public to actively get behind the riders and buy a programme in their time at the event.
The 31 year old recalled the support he received last year, and explained the importance of the campaign.
“Last year I began to see it from Magherabuoy and particularly at Black Hill and along the Coast Road. It's brilliant to know it's for the riders and I would love all the fans to back this new campaign and make programme waving an even bigger feature on Race Day. Buying a programme not only adds to the overall sporting spectacle but brings in much needed funds to help secure the future of the North West an event which is close to all our hearts.”
NW200 Technical Director Mervyn White agrees, and he offered his praise to the supporters for their contribution to the success of the event.
“Over the years fans waving programmes in appreciation of local riders has become one of the iconic images of Race Day but it is also the lifeblood of the event in terms of revenue generated,” he explained. “It's a message we emphasize every year and monies raised through programmes are essential to keep the event viable.”
White also emphasised the accessibility of the event, and believes the NW200 offers unrivalled value for spectators.
“Essentially it is your entrance fee for a full day of world class sport and also offers over 100 pages of information, action photos, features and rider entries/numbers to help fans follow the Race Day programme. The Relentless NW200 programme costs £15 and if you compare this to £75 for a family race day ticket at Knockhill for a round of the MCE British Superbike championship or £60 for a race day ticket to Moto GP at Silverstone, it's clear the North West delivers good value for money!”
Saturday grandstand seats cost £20 and £25 with a weekly paddock pass, programme and Saturday grandstand seat costing between £45 and £49. Programmes cost £15 each but can purchased along with Saturday or weekly paddock passes for £23 and £28 respectively. Paddock passes cost £12 for Race Day only and £18 for a weekly pass.
Practice for the Relentless International North West 200 starts on Tuesday 17th May, with Race Day on Saturday 21st May.