The 14th running of the Formula Renault Campus was launched yesterday from the Nogaro Circuit with the first race of the year. Organised by French Motorsport Federation, this championship will run from mid April to October.
The three drivers from the H.H Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Racing Drivers Academy competed in the first race weekend that consisted of two races and came out with flying colours. After a short session of familiarisation on Friday and two storming qualifying sessions on Saturday, race 1 was promising to be a gigantic battle as 20 talented drivers were battling for top positions.
The first race on Sunday was a learning stage for the three drivers from H.H Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Racing Drivers Academy. It was the first time they had raced in Europe, but soon they were able to adapt to the circuit, the car and the competition and started pressing for higher positions. Faisal Al Redha finished the race in eight position while Mohammed Al Kamda finished 11th and Hasher Al Maktoum 13th.
"It was a tough start but soon we were able to compete and started climbing the grid. I am glad to finish the race as mechanical problems ended my qualifying sessions on Saturday" said Hasher Al Maktoum.
The intense competition between the drivers which ignited during the first race of the Formula Renault Campus continued into the second and final race of the day, but this time the three Emirati drivers were all geared up to achieve better results, Faisal fought his way to fifth position, behind him was Mohammed Al Kamda, who a few laps before the end of the race was pushed outside the track. Meanwhile Hasher Al Maktoum drove a strong race to move ten positions from 18th to eight.
"I am very happy at what I have achieved. I was fighting for a podium finish but eighth place in the first race and fifth place in the second is a good start for the season. The competition is very tough and I hope next time to move a step further" said Faisal Al Redha.
"Finishing 11th in the first race meant that I missed out on scoring my first point. In the second race I was determined to finish in the points and I was doing very well (sixth) until I was pushed outside the track by a competitor. I am so disappointed but I am also looking forward for the next race" said Mohammed Al Kamda.
The H.H Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Racing Drivers Academy is the first of its kind in the UAE aims to select and train young UAE drivers and give them the ability to race and compete at the highest international level. It will deliver a comprehensive approach to educating and training UAE nationals and provide them with all the training and support the need to enhance their racing skills.
About the Dubai Autodrome
Dubai Autodrome is the region's first fully integrated motor and motorsports facility. The Autodrome is a state-of-the-art complex featuring an FIA sanctioned 5.39 km track, ultra-modern 7,000-seat grandstand, hospitality suites for corporate guests and parking for up to 10,000 cars. There are six track permutations, while three can work simultaneously, which gives unparalleled options for track users.
The complex, which is a part of the Union Properties development MotorCity, includes a racing & driving school, a CIK-approved go-kart track and is ideal for concerts and corporate entertainment. Dubai Autodrome also acts as a social destination and tourist attraction for overseas visitors.
