Roads: 'Road Riders' documentary set for BBC Northern Ireland

Published: 11 April 2017 Updated: 11 April 2017

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A three-part documentary delving into the passion, commitment and enthusiasm behind Irish national road racing is set to be aired on BBC Northern Ireland from next week.

‘Road Riders’ takes viewers into the racing paddock at a number of Irish national roads events to capture the essence and character of the sport that is often dangerous and sometimes fatal. A number of racers as well as their families talk candidly about why they take part in the sport, how they got involved and what drives them to pursue such a high-octane pastime.

Starting on Wednesday 19^th April at 10.40pm,’Road Riders’ was made by DoubleBand Films – the firm behind the critically acclaimed feature length film about the Dunlop family ‘Road’. Through the three episodes, producers follow 10 individuals, men and women, across a range of ages during the course of the 2016 season.
Viewers hear how the riders can have such a passion for a sport, aware that it carries a risk of tragedy or serious injury. And even when they experience it first-hand themselves they still go back for more.

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While the racers are blasting their bikes around country roads at speeds of up to 200mph, loved ones and families are counting the laps. The series hears how they cope with the wait and the worry for their son, daughter, husband or father to reappear again and make the chequered flag. Why do they go through the agony and allow their loved ones to take part?
The programme is accompanied by a touring photographic exhibition titled ‘Road Racing People’ by MCN’s Road Racing expert Stephen Davison, available to see at a number of locations across Northern Ireland.

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By Oli Rushby

Former sports reporter covering British Superbikes, World Superbikes and road racing