MRA Ireland update: Committed to a return to on track activity as soon as possible

The Officers and Directors of the Motorcycle Racing Association (Ireland) Ltd., official Governing Body of Off Road Motorcycle Sport in Ulster would like to update all competitors and members of the current situation regarding a return to competition as the NI Executive are easing restrictions weekly now.

The MRA Directors would again like to reinforce their commitment to a return to on track activity as soon as possible in line with the Operational Plan, and are in weekly, sometimes daily contact with SportNI, Department for Communities, Department for Health and the Northern Ireland Executive, and indeed our Insurers, Sports Insure.

With a return to ‘competitive sport’ announced for 17th July in Northern Ireland, this is still restricted to 30 persons on site at any time, we are working with SportNI in an effort to have this number raised for motocross as an ‘exemption’ and hope to have an answer from the NI Executive very soon on this matter.

We are aware that there has been a relaxation in the Republic of Ireland and in Great Britain at a different pace to ourselves, but we are governed by Northern Ireland Executive laws and guidance and must follow their instruction, this is a requirement from Sports Insure as well.

The MRA have a robust plan for return to sport which has been sent to all Clubs, we would advise these Clubs to start preparations for a return to sport, as they will have to prepare tracks and equipment, COVID 19 specific supplementary regulations for racing will be sent to all Clubs within the next week, they are already with Clubs for practice permits, but again, attendance is restricted to 30 people.

We would again like to pass on our appreciation and gratitude to all the staff at Department for Communities, Department for Health SportNI and NI Sports Forum and Sports Insurefor the hard work and support they are putting in to ensure a safe return to all sporting action as soon as possible.

We appreciate everyone’s patience and understanding in these extraordinary times, we are nearly there, and please, stay safe.

Words: MRA Ireland

Pic: Nigel McKinstry