Motor Sports

An all-new attraction is set to enthral race fans at Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) in Sakhir with the launch of ‘The Ultimate Track Experience’.

It includes four separate activities: a drive in a Clio Cup sports car, a passenger ride in a Clio Cup sports car, a drive in a Radical SR1 prototype, plus a passenger ride in an ultra-quick Radical SR3 prototype.

To commemorate the launch, BIC has set up a display at Seef Mall with all three cars on show. The exhibit is located in the mall’s west extension.

The Ultimate Track Experience is set to be available at the world-renowned desert race track from Friday, October 14. Bookings, however, can be made in advance.

“The pair of Clio Cup experiences are sure to give motorsport fans an exciting look into the racing capabilities of one of the world’s most popular sports cars,” a BIC spokesman said. “This Renault-manufactured mean machine features a 1.6-litre Turbocharged engine. It can generate up to 220bhp and 6,000rpm and it has a paddle shift racing gearbox and an FIA-specification roll cage and seats.”

The Clio Cup drive can be purchased for BD120. It includes a pair of six-lap sessions and the entire experience lasts roughly two-and-a-half hours. The passenger ride, comprising a single three-lap session of around 40 minutes, can be enjoyed for BD25.

Meanwhile, the drive in the Radical SR1 prototype promises ‘the ultimate adrenaline rush’, organisers promise. The SR1 features an RPE-Suzuki 1,340cc engine which can generate 185bhp. It has a six-speed sequential transverse gearbox, it can go a maximum speed of 138mph and it launches from zero to 100kmh in 3.6 seconds.

The SR1 experience includes two five-lap sessions that could last up to around two-and-a-half hours at the cost of BD140. Completing the Clio Cup drive is required before taking part in the SR1 experience.

The Radical SR3 passenger ride will be conducted alongside one of BIC’s expert driving instructors. A Radical SR3 boasts an RPE-Suzuki Generation 1,340 DOHC engine. It can go from zero to 100kmh in 3.4 seconds, and also has a six-speed sequential gearbox and paddle gearshift system.

The SR3 passenger ride costs BD35 for a three-lap session of around 40 minutes.

All experiences have certain criteria that need to be met by participants. The highest of international safety standards will also be followed in each activity. “BIC is inviting motorsport lovers and thrill-seekers from Bahrain, the GCC and all over the world to come and enjoy this all-new activity,” a spokesman added.