A new BBC film is set to offer a candid insight into the lives of road racers and their families in the lead-up to the North West 200. 'Ride or Die' will be aired on Wednesday, April 9 on BBC One Northern Ireland.

This year's North West 200 takes place from May 7-10 along the coastal roads of Portstewart, Portrush and Coleraine. It attracts tens of thousands of fans to the North Coast every year, and around 100 riders who pit their racing skills and wits against the famous Triangle circuit.

With speeds of 200mph, the thrill of the roads also brings the risk of injury, and potentially death.

"For many of those who do it, it’s an all-consuming passion – providing a sense of purpose, community and fulfilment," the BBC said.

"For some religious faith plays an important, but often hidden, role in the lives of many of those involved. But for others faith in themselves, an undying love for the sport, and a belief in plain good luck is what fuels them.

"Road racing is part of who they are. And it’s something that informs how they think about the risks associated with a sport they love but which is often dangerous and sometimes fatal."

'Ride Or Die' is a DoubleBand Films production for BBC Northern Ireland and BBC One. It explores how "faith, grief and the risk of fatality push a diverse cast of racers to the limit in the weeks leading up to one of the world’s fastest road races".

It features Lee Johnston, a five-time winner at the North West 200. The Fermanagh racer, now living in Huddersfield, had a near fatal accident at the race in 2023. On a journey of recovery to compete in the 2024 race, he is in a race of his own to be ready.

Other stars of the film include Maria Costello MBE, one of only a handful of women in the sport. Described as a "trailblazer in the world of road racing", Costello tells the show that it was often in defiance of her mum’s wishes that she raced. However she is now in a different place.

The film, commissioned as part of the BBC’s Hot House commissioning initiative with support from Northern Ireland Screen, gets 'behind the visors' to find out where the riders find their strength, and rationale, to deal with the risks associated with the sport.

The BBC said: "Is it better to live a life doing what you dream of, even if it’s so inherently dangerous? And what, do they believe, will keep them safe from harm while threading their way between walls and trees on country roads– faith in their ability or faith in religion?

"Those taking part are supported by family – who are there to help, count down the laps and to worry. The film hears how they watch from behind the barriers as their loved ones push the limits - some praying while hoping for their safe return. Others have had to look to their faith when the worst happens."

'Ride or Die' hears the very personal journey of the family of Jamie Hodson from Wigan. Hodson was killed racing at the Ulster Grand Prix. His brother, Rob, recalls how he was involved in the accident while Jamie’s parents tell how they both grew stronger in their faith afterwards.

There is also Kevin Keyes, from County Offaly in the Republic of Ireland. An accomplished circuit racer, he competes in the much more dangerous sport of road racing for the first time.

Through the work of retired Presbyterian Minister Reverend John Kirkpatrick, the film also explores the relationship between some of those in road racing and the Christian faith.

As a race chaplain for more than 30 years, Reverend Kirkpatrick has officiated at the funerals of several riders who have lost their lives at the races. He fosters a sense of community in the paddock while examining the conflict between the sanctity of life and a sport that involves great risk.

'Ride or Die' is also part of the BBC’s Faith and Hope season returning for 2025 with content across Network TV and Radio alongside bespoke programming on BBC Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales and Local Radio.

As well as airing on BBC One Northern Ireland on April 9 (10.40pm), it will also be shown on BBC One on Thursday, April 10 (also 10.40pm).

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