• TETRA private mobile radio system to operate on Arqiva's 412-414 MHz spectrum
• Handheld terminals deployed for Support Services at Ireland's largest outdoor sporting event
• Three-year contract to provide on-course communications

Arqiva today announced that it will supply on-course communications for the Kennedy Group International North West 200 Road Race in a three-year deal. As the technical partner, Arqiva will provide a TETRA (Terrestrial Trunked Radio) private mobile radio system operating on its own 412-414 MHz spectrum.

Arqiva will supply and deploy all the terminals to the various event organisers including the Clerk of Course, race controllers, medical and emergency teams, cleaning teams and the BBC, who will be broadcasting the event live on BBC interactive. The system will utilise three carriers networked together to provide ten channels for communications, ensuring the availability of ample talk groups.

This will be the first commercial TETRA system to be implemented solely in Northern Ireland. The more advanced digital technology will not only provide better quality speech and enhanced coverage but will also allow the communications team to prioritise certain devices should an emergency situation arise. This will ensure that the Clerk of Course and medical and emergency teams maintain access to communication channels at all times, which was not possible with previous analogue technology. Arqiva will be providing training for the race organisers prior to the event, many of whom are volunteers, to ensure they are familiar with the new technology.

Mervyn Whyte MBE, Clerk of Course, said, "The triangle circuit at North West 200 is one of the fastest in the world with some riders reaching speeds of over 200 miles per hour, so ensuring the health and safety of both the participants and spectators is our primary concern. Having a robust communications system in place is essential for the safe running of the event, which is why we have chosen Arqiva with whom we have a longstanding relationship and who have extensive experience in public safety and event management as a partner."

Pat Walls, General Manager of Arqiva in Ireland, said, "Behind-the-scenes management and logistics are crucial in delivering a successful event and the team will now benefit from a digital Private Mobile Radio (PMR) network, which will enable them to maintain secure contact with their teams at all parts of the race site, whilst also having full control over who can use the channels at any time. This is another example of Arqiva providing a mission critical communications solution aligned with our customers' operational requirements."

The Kennedy Group International North West 200 Road Race is Ireland's largest outdoor sporting event, attracting crowds in excess of 150,000 and some of the biggest names in the sport. The circuit runs between the towns of Portrush, Portstewart and Coleraine, in Northern Ireland. The 2008 event will take place on Saturday, 17th May with Race Week activities beginning on Saturday, 10th May. More information on the race can be found at http://www.northwest200.org/

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