Irish road racing must end, says Nutt

Billy Nutt, the man who has just retired as clerk of the course for the Ulster GP, says racing on closed roads is too dangerous and the number of deaths unacceptable.

After seven years in charge at the Dundrod circuit, Nutt now says Ulster should find the cash build a world class short circuit instead.

He said: ” The future is bleak. We are paying too high a price for our sport in terms of deaths involving competitors, officials and spectators. I know that some circuits have increased safety standards but the improvements aren’t being implemented quick enough. The way forward is track racing. We must aim to improve what we have and at the same time mount a campaign for a proper multi-purpose grand prix facility. ”

But Ulster Grand Prix Supporters’ Club secretary Des Jardin says that there is: ” a countrywide interest in real road racing and the Ulster Grand Prix in particular. It must not be allowed to slip into oblivion. ”

For the past three years Nutt has promoted short circuit racing at the Kirkistown circuit. Major improvements are also planned at the Bishopscourt track in County Down. New owner Jim O’Brien says that: ” With planning permission the scope is endless. ”

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