Ballymoney is gearing up for a special homecoming event in honour of road racing superstar Michael Dunlop, following his record-breaking success at the Isle of Man TT.
Michael etched his name into the history books earlier this year when he notched up his 29th TT win, surpassing the record previously held by his late uncle, Joey Dunlop.
To recognise Michael’s incredible sporting achievement, Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council announced that it will host a homecoming event next Saturday (October 26), allowing Michael’s family, friends and fans to come together and celebrate his milestone TT victory.
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The streets of Michael’s hometown, Ballymoney, will see a parade in his honour set off from Seymour Street at 5.30pm and proceed along Main Street and High Street, finishing at Townhead Street, where two of Michael’s TT-winning bikes will be on display outside Ballymoney Town Hall.
Fans will then have the opportunity to take part in a Q&A session with the racing star, as he shares his thoughts on breaking his uncle Joey’s TT record, his goals for the future and what it means to be celebrating with thousands of his supporters in his homeplace.
There will also be some special one-off Michael Dunlop merchandise, which will be on sale at Townhead Street car park.
At 6.30pm, a special reception will be held in tribute to the 35-year-old’s accomplishments, at Ballymoney Town Hall for invited guests.
Michael will also throw open the doors on a new exhibition in Ballymoney Museum, showcasing a series of items and photographs from his illustrious TT career.
The homecoming event will be capped off with Michael setting off a fireworks display at Ballymoney Showgrounds.
The Isle of Man TT or Tourist Trophy races are an annual motorcycle racing event run on the Isle of Man in May and June.
Michael made his TT debut in 2007 at the age of just 18, recording his first win in the second Supersport Race of 2009.
Over the course of just 15 years, he has amassed an astounding tally of victories at the iconic road racing event, with no signs of slowing down any time soon.
The Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, Councillor Ciarán McQuillan said: “This is a wonderful opportunity for Michael’s fans from around the world to come together and celebrate his remarkable Isle of Man TT career.
“The Dunlop name is synonymous with road racing success and with his latest wins at the 2024 Isle of Man TT, Michael has not only cemented his legendary status, but he has also bolstered the legacy of the Dunlop dynasty.
“I know the people of Ballymoney, as well as Michael’s army of loyal fans from far and wide, will make this a very special evening as we celebrate, recognise and honour the greatest road racer of all time. On behalf of Council, I invite everyone to join us in what is sure to be an unmissable event.”
Parking for the homecoming event is available at Townhead Street car park, Church Street car park and Castle Street car park.
Free parking is also available at Market Street car and Seymour Street, as well as to the rear of St James’s Park (former Route Hospital site – please follow appropriate signage).