JEDDAH, 31 July 2003 — The much-awaited Jeddah Star Autocross race began last night. Ninety participants selected for the inaugural race, all amateurs, started at Durat Al-Arus Resort at 9 p.m. The race, coinciding with the last phase of the annual Jeddah Summer Festival, is set for two days, also starting at 9 p.m. until 11.30 p.m.
“Competitors drive their own vehicles — ordinary ones, not sports cars, which are subject to technical inspection and scrutiny by specialists and in conformity with the internationally recognized autocross rules and regulations,” said Saudi rally champion Abdullah Bakhashab, who is the chairman of the organizing committee.
Bakhashab, who is also the mastermind of the event, is supervising the event, described as the first of its kind. “If successful, we hope to stage it regularly as part of the annual summer festival,” Bakhashab said. He held a meeting attended by all participants on the eve of the race and explained the mechanism of the qualifying rounds for the first day.
He briefed the meeting about the permitted modifications to the engine, suspension system, tires, bodywork, etc. He also explained how competitors will qualify for the second and final stage set for today. “Qualified drivers will be allowed to drive specially equipped Citroen vehicles to select the best and fastest driver in the city,” he said.
The race course is a closed circuit specially designed with carefully laid out rubber pylons, obstacles, barriers, turnings and curves, and surrounded by the viewing areas.
“Normally, autocross races depend on time scores and driving skills more than on driver’s speed. The best time is the lowest time achieved in any run inclusive pylon penalties, if any. Skillful yet considerate driving is therefore essential for any participant to finish the race and score the best time,” said Khalid Al-Malik on behalf of the organizers.
“I like the idea,” Rakan Raheebi, one of the participants, remarked. “I’m participating in the event to improve my driving skills. I’m fond of fast driving. Here is an opportunity to prove my skills on a safely designed site. In the past I used to be caught by the police for inconsiderate driving in the streets.”
Among the other participants is Prince Khalid ibn Sultan. “I’m so happy to take part in the event. I’m fond of driving and have waited for a long time for this occasion to prove my driving skills,” the prince said.
