Racing bosses in Ireland have followed the example set by North West 200 organisers by reducing entry fees for 2013 if competitors pay up by March 16.

The MCRRCI, which has amalgamated Irish Superbikes and Clubman Championships to make their events viable, have recognised that budgets are even tighter this season so have taken further steps - although not as far as the North West who waived fees entirely.

"Entry fees are one of the competitor’s outlays before an event and over the last number of years in the wake of the Regal, Lambert & Butler sponsorship money, prizefunds are generated through entry fees, spectator admission charges and the Clubs own funding through club sponsors and friends," said a spokesman.

"Therefore entry fees have been increasing year on year to meet the deficits clubs have endured through low entry and spectator numbers etc. With only a small number of competitors obtaining the prize money from these events and the low prospects of obtaining an event sponsor the only prize money to be paid out this season at our club events will be for the race classes sponsored on the day. The Club will continue to present Trophies to Podium positions

"With ever increasing running costs, the MCRRCI and our partners in the Killinchy Club have decided to take a calculated risk and reduce the entry fees for competitors who pay in FULL by the closing date 16th March."

Regulations and entry forms are now available for the Easter Saturday event at Bishopscourt Racing Circuit, where solo competitors have the discounted single event fee of only £60 or 2nd or more events for £100. Late solo entry fee will be £100 & £150 for secnd or more events. Our race Secretary will have these forms in the post to all competitors by the second week in February, they can also be downloaded from www.mcrrci.co.uk