03/11/2005
NEWS STORY
$50 million worth of equipment has been flown from Portugal to Sydney for the fourth round of The World Cup of Motorsport which fires into life tomorrow at Sydney’s Eastern Creek International Raceway and race organisers are giving Sydney’s kids the opportunity to get in on the action free.
Any kids or School groups who come to Eastern Creek International Raceway will be admitted free of charge for the opening day of proceedings.
24 nations representing 80% of the world’s population have descended upon Sydney for this weekend’s celebration of cars, culture and competition. A1 Team Indonesian has withdrawn due to a clash with the final round of the Asian Formula 3 Championship in the Philippines, which driver Ananda Mikola is currently leading.
Several leading drivers will be at Eastern Creek, including Jos Verstappen, returns for The Netherlands after a spectacular incident at the previous round, so too Ralph Firman who should have a big Irish contingent cheering him on.
In the Australian camp, Will Davison and Christian Jones will each drive a session in tomorrow’s two practice sessions.
Being just eight points behind the Kiwis, a big result from the Aussies is anticipated – especially since a big number of New Zealanders are rumoured to be making the trek across the Tasman.
Day One will see the A1 Grand Prix teams get their first taste of the challenging 3.93 kilometre Western Sydney layout, recently upgraded to Grade 2 FIA Standard for this event, with two one hour sessions at 1:00pm and 4:00pm respectively.
Aside from the A1 Grand Prix of Nations activity, it will be an action packed day that will start at 9:00am with practice for the support categories. With 40 cars confirmed for the Australian GT Championship and Porsche Drivers Challenge one-hour enduro on Saturday, 35 Formula Fords, an Australian record 26 Formula 3 field and 32 Historic Open-wheelers, there is enough to keep racing purists entertained throughout the weekend.
There are also a number of supporting activities throughout the weekend, including Freestyle Moto-X, a motorcycle stunt show, the Red Bull Aerobatic Stunt Team and even a wood-chopping demonstration!