There’s far more to the Bahrain International Circuit than Formula One, as Samuel Marsh discovers
Even on a non-race day, Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) is buzzing. There’s not a spectator in sight, but touring cars whizz around the track creating quite a noise. As they slow at the first corner, you hear the passenger shout instructions to the driver through their helmets.
This is the real success of the BIC: not just the three days of the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix, but the 300 other events that take place here each year. Designed by German architect Hermann Tilke, who also created Malaysia’s Sepang circuit, the BIC has six tracks, which allow for a range of events, from the Australian V8 series to the international drag festival. Then there are the chances to have a drive yourself, whether on an Open Track day, quad-biking on a purpose-built track or trying out your racing skills with an instructor in a top-ofthe-range sports car.
Beside the main entrance to the BIC is Kart Zone, a perfect introduction to motorsport for children. The karts travel at up to 50kmph, though it feels a lot faster, and you can pay for a 10-minute sampler or a full hour. Karting is available as a team-building exercise and the BIC offers corporate hospitality facilities in the Oasis complex and main grandstands.
Of course, from 4-6 April, the track hosts the headline act: the third race of the 2008 Formula One world championship. Book your seat in good time – and you may want earplugs! www.bahrain. gp.com.bh |
