Glenn Irwin and Alastair Seeley win big at NW200

Alastair Seeley and Glenn Irwin celebrate their wins at the North West 200. Credit: Pacemaker

Carrickfergus motorbike racers Glenn Irwin and Alastair Seeley have won big at this year’s North West 200.

British Superbike contender Irwin took victory in both Superbike races, first over second-placed Dean Harrison and Michael Rutter in third.

He then followed that up by topping the podium in Saturday’s final race, leading over second-placed Michael Dunlop and Lee Johnston in third.

Glenn Irwin did the double in the Superbikes. Credit: Pacemaker

“What can I say, it’s just been an awesome day,” Irwin said.

“I managed to get the holeshot in both races and just got my head down, which allowed me to break the tow of the other riders.

“With clear road, you can ride almost the perfect lap and the support I was getting from the crowd was unreal – I didn’t need a pitboard as the crowd were giving me all the signals I needed!”

Meanwhile, Alastair Seeley took wins in Saturday’s Supersport and Superstock races – adding them to his victory in Thursday’s Supersport race.

Alastair Seeley enjoyed his wins at the North West 200. Credit: Pacemaker

“I’m delighted to increase my Supersport win record to 12,” Seeley said.

“And overall, we now have 24 wins, coming in 11 consecutive seasons at the NW200.”

Supertwin wins went to Martin Jessop on Thursday and James Cowton on Saturday.

Ballymoney’s William Dunlop did not fare so well, being forced to retire from Saturday’s action due to injuries picked up earlier in the week.

William Dunlop had to cut his North West 200 short, withdrawing on Saturday. Credit: Pacemaker

However, the annual road-racing showpiece which attracts thousands of bike fans to the North Coast was largely hailed as a success with no serious injuries and the weather holding up well.

Race goers enjoyed a visit and parade lap by reigning World Superbike champion Jonathan Rea.

Reigning WSBK champion Jonathan Rea visited the North West 200. Credit: Pacemaker

Among the week’s action, tributes were also paid to road-racing legend Robert Dunlop – father of Michael and William.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of his tragic death in a crash on the Triangle circuit.