JEDDAH: Sixteen drivers will take part in the first two rounds of Toyota Karting Race 2009 to be held at the Jeddah Race way today and tomorrow.
“Final touches has been given to the venue for the launch of Championship in Saudi Arabia,” ace rally driver Abdullah Bakhashab told the media yesterday.
“This race will act as a great step toward attracting and spotting talent among youth for future participants of F1 competitions,” he added.
He said, as a organizer he would make the race “completely similar to what happens in F1 races.” There will be qualifying rounds before the event at 8.30 p.m. on the opening day to determine the places of every driver. The race will then start an hour later.
“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.
Bakhashab said that all participants would have to hold a license 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, and 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 and their families, especially children. Points will be collected throughout the race’s rounds — 20 points for the 1st, 15 for the 2nd, 12 for the 3rd.
The Toyota Karting Race 2008 rounds were successfully organized with many competitors from different teams taking part.
Abdullah Al-Mutari, the title winner of the training race in the Toyota Karting Race 2008, said: “I will be delighted to participate in the Toyota Karting 2009 Championship and I’m ready for it.” Sultan Kaylo is another contender for the title this year.
Explaining the rules of the game, Bakhashab said participants would be awarded points after each lap. Toyota is the main sponsor of the championship, which is supported by In 10 so, and Mobile 1.
