Saudi Star Drift Championship organizer Abdullah Bakhashab addressing the press conference as sponsors (From 2nd L) Abdulilah Wazni, Abdullah Al-Siddiqi and Nawaf Qari look on in Jeddah Tuesday. Saleh Fareed
JEDDAH — Saudi Star Drift Championship returns for its second spell with renewed challenge and invigorating excitement similar to last year's event when it launches in Al-Ahsa tomorrow. The championship is organized by Abdullah Bakhashab, Saudi motorsport developer, and sponsored by Mountain Dew, Nissan, Saudi Total Lubricants and Alif Alif Radio under the supervision of the Saudi Arabian Motor Federation. Announcing the launch here Tuesday Bakhshab said the championship consists of four rounds to be held in Al-Ahsa, Al-Khobar, Riyadh and ends in Jeddah. The 1st round will take place on Sept. 11 (Friday) at King Abdullah Adventure Park in Al-Ahsa, the 2nd round on Oct. 9 at Al-Khohar Corniche, while the 3rd round will be held in Riyadh on Nov. 13, with the final round taking place at Jeddah International Exhibition and Convention Center on Dec. 15. The event gives amateurs and professionals a chance to showcase their unique and smooth drift skills at high speeds in a challenging and fun event. Speaking at a press conference held here, Bakhashab said: “I am pleased to announce the launch of Saudi Star Drift Championship aiming at seeking and refining driving skills of young Saudis, as well as preparing them for local, regional and international championships once they have gained experience through their participation in the championship. “I would like to take this opportunity to thank the sponsors, namely Nissan Saudi Arabia, Saudi Total Lubricants and Alif Alif Radio, for their support to ensure the success of the championship, and grant the Saudi youths the opportunity to participate in an event which will help them improve their driving skills.” He pointed out that motorsport in the Kingdom will take its rightful place through the organization of more motorsport events and by ensuring participation of the largest possible number of young talent. “We organize this championship to help raise the public driving skills and shift their love for it from public roads to organized events in a secured setting,” he said. Abdulilah Wazni, general manager for marketing and communications at Nissan Saudi Arabia, said: “Nissan is proud to sponsor this most promising motorsport activity, which will encourage many young people toward the world of healthy competition.” Abdullah Al-Sidiqi, marketing manager of Saudi Total Lubricants, said their sponsorship is part of Total strategy to support youth in serious motorsport events such as this championship. Nawaf Qari from Alif Alif Radio FM, said they are proud to be part of this event targeting the Saudi youth and will broadcast the four rounds to support motorsport in the Kingdom because of its importance to a large segment of the Saudi youth. The championship comprises two categories — Professional and Amateur. Three winners from each round will qualify for the final round.
