Ready for the Bang'
By TMX Archives on 19th Mar 08
WITH just over two-weeks to go, the final preparations are now well underway for the Trial Grand Prix of Ireland, which will form the second round of the 2008 FIM SPEA Trial World Championship.The event that will take place over the weekend of April 5/6, will also have the honour of hosting the opening round of the European series on Saturday, prior to Sunday's World competition.
The seaside town of Bangor last welcomed the World championship back in 2003 and 2004, when it was widely recognised as one of the best rounds of the series on both occasions.
The waterside location is totally unique and offers spectators unrivalled access to all elements of the event, which will ensure they enjoy what promises to be two days of top trials action.
The beautiful Bangor marina, at the end of the town's main shopping street, will once again house the riders' paddock area and all of the event's main facilities. Grandstand seating in the Clock Tower arena will provide visitors with a clear view of the man made first and last sections, plus the start and finish stage.
From here, spectators can keep up with the action as it unfolds by following the tarmac coastal path that extends the full length of the course.
Sections two and three are only a short walk from the paddock, the next pair of hazards are only another brief stroll from this point before the trial turns away from the sea into Stricklands Glen. This will be one of the main spectator groups, with the steep-sided wooded ravine containing six hazards.
The riders will then head further along the coast for the final two outward-bound sections before turning for home and the crowds who will no doubt be packing the grandstands.
Britain's Dougie Lampkin (pictured right) will be looking to repeat the successes he achieved in Bangor in both 2003 and 2004.
The 32 year-old remains in search of his 100th Grand Prix victory, and would so dearly love to achieve it at an event he will consider as home ground. Having endured a difficult campaign during the recent Indoor World series, Lampkin will be looking to restore both himself and the factory two-stroke Beta amongst the front runners as the title fight shifts outdoors. Bangor will mark Dougie's first competitive UK appearance since rejoining the Italian team over the winter period.
Bangor sits within easy travelling distance of Belfast, which has great links to the UK mainland both by air and sea. The two Belfast airports, International and the closer City facility, enjoy regular flights provided by several low cost operators.
In addition to this, discounted ferry rates have been negotiated specifically for this event through a local travel agent. Add to this the fact that Bangor and its surrounding Borough has so much to see and offer all the family, and you will understand why this is a must not miss event. For full event and travel details, please visit www.bangorworldtrial.com or contact the Bangor tourist office on 02891-270069.