The awards were presented by Eddie Jordan, head of the Jordan Formula motor racing team.

Mallya was also part of a consortium which bought a Formula One motor racing team last year.

Walker and Rodas were the owners of a motor racing team and Rodas was also a professional driver.

Finally an Irish outfit are following in the tyre tracks of Eddie Jordan's motor racing team by kicking their way onto the international Superbike stage.

Motor Sport: Ferrari will supply the Prost Formula One motor racing team with their V10 engine for the 2001 and 2002 seasons.