JEDDAH, 3 May 2006 — Sixteen drivers are taking part in a two-day Mobily Karting Race set to be held at Durat Al-Arus for two days from May 10.
“All the final touches have been given to the venue for the launch of the first official karting race championship in Saudi Arabia,” ace rally driver Abdullah Bakhashab told a press conference at ‘In 10 so’ located at the Serafi Mega mall last night. “This race will act as the first step toward attracting and spotting talent among youth for future participants of F1 competitions,” Bakhashab added.
He said that he as the organizer would make the karting race “completely similar to what happens in F1 races.” There will be qualifying rounds before the event at 8:30 a.m. on the opening day to determine the places of every driver. The race will then start an hour later, at 9:30 a.m. “The race will be conducted on the basis of CIK-FIA rules,” Bakhashab said, adding that the organizers will choose the best cars for the tournament.
Replying to questions, Bakhashab said that all participants would have to hold a license being issued by SATA locally on behalf of CIK. Also, all drivers will take part with their own cars. The participating racecars have all to be Italian made Fortex with 125 cc, one cylinder, 29 horse power engine. Talking about the racetrack, he said the track had been specially prepared for the purpose with the most modern equipment and had been prepared on an international level.
The track is 1.10 km long and competing drivers, who will be divided into groups, will have to complete 17 laps. This will have to be done within 20 minutes. Detailing safety measures taken at the venue, Bakhashab said the most modern safety equipment had been provided in the interest of competing drivers and spectators. The competition is expected to draw thousands of motor sport fans who will be accompanied by their families, especially children.
Explaining the rules of the game, Bakhashab said participants would be awarded points after each lap. The second and third competition of the race will be held on June 7-8 and the 5th and 6th events on Sept. 20-21. Mobily is the main sponsor of the championship, with Bison, Castrol, In 10 so and Okaz newspaper being the other sponsors.
