Al Ain to stage Rotax Max Challenge Grand Finals

posted on 31/10/2011: 26 views

Less than a week after Abu Dhabi hosts a Formula One Grand Prix at Yas Marina, Al Ain will come alive with the world's largest karting event — the Rotax Max Challenge Grand Finals.

Running for a week from November 19, the 12th edition of the event will see 264 drivers from 60 different countries, including a seven-member team from the UAE which includes two Emiratis, battle it out at the Al Ain Raceway.

Speaking yesterday, Antonio Kekati, managing director of Al Ain Raceway, said: "Approximately 3,500 competitors worldwide took part and qualified through the National Rotax Max Challenge in their respective countries. And the top drivers from each country have made it to the Grand Finals in their respective classes.

"This is the second time that we are hosting the event. We have seven qualified drivers from the UAE with two of them being locals. Mohammad Al Daheri will be competing."

Mohammad Bin Sulayem, UAE Automobile and Touring Club (ACTUAE) president, FIA vice-president and UAE champion rally driver, said: "Motorsport in the UAE has come a long way in the last decade, and we are now in a position to hold world-class events across our top level facilities.

Fine facility

ATCUAE, I have no doubt that it will be a terrific event where we will see some exciting yet safe racing.

"I know I am not the only one looking forward to seeing the racing stars of the future in action in Al Ain."

Khalid Bin Shaiban Al Muhairi, chairman of Al Ain Raceway, said: "This year's Grand Finals are being held under the patronage of Sheikh Sultan Bin Hamdan Al Nahyan [President's Adviser].

"We are also supported by our sponsors Yas Marina Circuit, Strata and Tawazun. Together we share a passion to raise the profile of this great sport."

"Ask any Formula One driver how he started his career and 99 per cent of them will tell you it all began with karting.

"Karting is the purest form of racing. The experience that one gains from racing karts is invaluable, not only to control of the vehicle but also race craft and sportsmanship. These are the attributes that mould young drivers into the international superstars we see today.

"Here in the UAE we are keen to join the ranks of other countries in building the sport from the bottom up.

"We are proud to hold the Formula One Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, and are equally proud to host the Rotax Max Challenge Grand Finals." – Gulf News

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