The Saturday programme at the Vauxhall International North West 200 was cancelled after just one race for the second time in three years after torrential rain rendered conditions impossible for racing. Only the second Supersport race beat the weather with Michael Dunlop making up for his Thursday disappointment by taking victory although even that was halted after two laps with several riders going down on the sodden roads.
Speaking after the decision to cancel the meeting was made, Event Director Mervyn Whyte explained the reasons for it while sparing a thought for the loyal fans who braved the elements.
“I have carried out a final inspection of the course with John McGuinness, Michael Rutter and Stuart Easton and there is a huge amount of surface water, particularly on the coast road, that would make racing impossible. It is very unfortunate after all the hard work done by everyone involved in organising the race and for all the teams and riders who have travelled here to compete.”
“I am gutted for the fans who have turned out in their thousands to support us today in spite of the weather. Thank you for all of your support but in the interests of everyone’s safety we have had no choice but to make this decision.”
The next stop on the road racing calendar will be the 2013 Isle of Man TT with the on-track action getting underway on Saturday.
