Kyalami Gears Up For A1gp

Kyalami is readying itself to host the South African A1 Grand Prix, the sixth stop in the A1GP World Cup of Motorsport, from 22 to 25 February 2009.
Inset: Kyalami, South Africa's most famous motor racing circuit, has a rich history of hosting international championhips (Image: Kyalami Racing)
Durban hosted the South African A1 Grand Prix for the last three years in succession with great success; in 2005/06 it was voted the best race of the season. So Kyalami has a high standard to live up to, but if any circuit can do it, and even better the show put on by Durban, it is Kyalami.
In the past Kyalami – which means "my home" in isiZulu – has played host to numerous Formula One Grands Prix, Moto GP, nine-hour endurance, and World Superbike events.
Huge crowds
The Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit opened in 1961 and currently hosts 10 national motorsport events. It is 4.26 kilometres in length and is located between Johannesburg and Pretoria. The two big cities will, no doubt, ensure huge crowds at the SA A1GP.
A1GP CEO, Pete da Silva, commenting on the choice of Kyalami to host the SA A1GPm said: "Gauteng is the economic powerhouse of the country and also the home of competitive sport, now including A1GP.
"The people of South Africa, and more especially Gauteng, can look forward to an event like no other. It will be a feast for the senses."
Gauteng
The Gauteng provincial government is actively involved in the event, which it expects to be a catalyst in a number of areas, including the logistical, security, and infrastructure sectors and, obviously, a huge boost for motorsport.
Former Gauteng Premier Tokyo Sexwale, one of South Africa's most prominent and successful businessmen, is the Seatholder for A1 Team South Africa. Looking ahead to the Kyalami A1GP, he said: "The series is characterised by fast cars, high octane action and beautiful people - all of which also characterise the province of Gauteng."
The A1GP is also the latest in a long line of high-profile sporting events to present the province and the country with a big opportunity to market itself and, with the 2010 Fifa World Cup looming large, it provides yet another positive marketing push for the Rainbow Nation.
Ferrari
Additional prestige has been added to the A1GP series this season, with the introduction of Ferrari-powered V8 engines for the competing nations. The most famous name in motor racing and the famous Ferrari "howl" is a surefire recipe to draw masses of fans.
The A1GP World Cup of Motorsport has positioned itself as a competition for nations, rather than drivers, in which all teams compete on a level playing field. Ultimately, it comes down to the triumphing of one team's skill and teamwork over that of others.
The South African car, nicknamed Vulindela, meaning "clear the way", is one of the most eye-catching vehicles in the entire A1GP field; it is decked out in the six colours of the South African national flag and hard to miss.
Adrian Zaugg
The car will be driven by Adrian Zaugg, who has enjoyed success in the A1GP series, scoring victories in Australia and The Netherlands, although his results have been somewhat inconsistent.
Competing at Kyalami, Zaugg, who has shown in the past that he can mix it up with the fastest of drivers, will be aiming to delight the passionate South African motor racing fans with a home victory.
Three events have still to take place before the South African A1GP: at Sepang in Malaysia on 25 November, Taupo in New Zealand on 25 January, and Lippo in Indonesia on 8 February.
The 2008/09 A1GP series visits 11 countries, with South Africa the sixth stop on the circuit.
Tickets
Tickets for the A1GP South Africa race weekend can be bought through Computicket. Prices are as follows (with a 10% discount on offer for tickets bought by 12 December):
| |
Friday |
Saturday |
Sunday |
3-day package |
| Gold Grandstand |
R100 |
R250 |
R500 |
R650 |
| Silver Grandstand |
R80 |
R150 |
R300 |
R400 |
| General Access |
R43* / R50 |
R85* / R100 |
R145* / R170 |
R213* / R250 |
*= price for kids aged 8-16 (maximum of two kids' tickets per adult ticket purchased). Kids under 8 get free General Access.
Source: SouthAfrica.info
The all-in-one official guide
and web portal to South Africa.
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