Ras Al Khaimah Rally contenders promise plenty of action

Dubai: Some of the top contenders have promised plenty of action and thrills as a field of 12 teams prepares for this weekend's Ras Al Khaimah Rally.

"The field is strong and the competition will be stiff for sure," Raed Baker, one of the top contenders for the title, told Gulf News.

Co-driven by longtime friend Nabeel Ahmadi, Baker will be hoping to end the race with at least a top-three placing at the end of two days.

However, Baker is also keen to use this event as a testing ground for his new French factory built car.

"There are several drivers in the line-up who have a proven track record, and I will be one of the drivers vying for the top spot."

Shaikh Suhail Bin Khalifa Al Maktoum, co-driven by Wael Marjan, is also on the favourites' list.

"The competition will be strong, but we will give it our best shot," Shaikh Suhail said.

"The ground conditions after yesterday's rains will not be in our favour, but we will go all out for a win," he added.

The 100-km rally, organised by the Emirates Motor Sports Federation under permit from the UAE Automobile and Touring Car will be held under the patronage of Shaikh Saud Bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah.

The vehicles were scrutinised on Wednesday and the prologue was held at the bottom of the picturesque Awafi sand basin from 2.45pm yesterday.

The first car will roll off at 10.10am from the Mazraa area in Ras Al Khaimah and the first car is expected to arrive at the finish point outside Al Manara Mall by 3 pm.

The awards ceremony will be held thereafter at the Hilton Hotel.

The race for the overall title this season is being led by Al Falasi and co-driver Yaqoub Mohammad after wins in Umm Al Quwain and the 1000 Dunes rallies.

Abdullah Al Huraiz and Wael Marjan are sitting in second position on the driver's and co-driver's table.