LAHORE, 28 February 2005 — President Gen. Pervez Musharraf inaugurated Pakistan’s first A-1 race car yesterday at a ceremony held at Lahore Fort. Foolproof security arrangements were made when a large number of people turned out to view the racecar.
Musharraf arrived in the provincial metropolis Saturday afternoon after addressing a public gathering in Multan. He was accompanied by Pakistan Muslim League President Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain, Punjab Chief Minister Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi, Pakistan’s A-1 Grand Prix Team Chairman Arif Hussain, Managing Director Salik Hussain and ambassadors of various countries.
The racecar is presented by Shaikh Ahmed Mohammed Hashar Al Maktoum, who was also founder of A-I Grand Prix, which will be held in Brands Hatch (England) on Sept. 25.
“Pakistan’s participation in A-1 Grand Prix in England will improve the image of the country,” Shujaat remarked. “Players are the ambassadors of countries and help enhance the images of their countries abroad,” he added.
Shaikh Maktoum thanked Shujaat for his role in making arrangements for Pakistan’s participation in A-1 Grand Prix.
Salik Hussain said those days are not far away when the car race would become a popular game in Pakistan like other sports.
He said Pakistan was going to take part in A-1 Grand Prix in England for the first time and this was an honor for the country.
Taking part in the race would improve the image of Pakistan and provide the youth with another opportunity to engage in positive activities, he added.
He hoped that the Pakistani team would perform well in the race.
“We will make a comprehensive strategy to promote the sport in the country. I intend to set up an academy for the training of the drivers,” he added.
