Asian Motor Sports

Japan’s biggest racing series – Super GT is coming to Malaysia and Sepang is all geared up and ready to organize the Malaysian round of Super GT International Series Malaysia 2009 from June 19 to 21.

A unique event combining mean machines and gorgeous GT queens; bringing a truly Japanese carnival-like atmosphere and motor racing fiesta to the circuit; Malaysia will host Round 4 of the 2009 championship, which will also feature some of the best regional races as the supporting events.

To be held from June 19 to 21, Sepang hosts the only international round of the hugely popular championship, which provides a sexy combination of stylish sports cars and gorgeous Japanese grid girls. The series came to Malaysia in 2000; but SIC was made an official race as one of the championship rounds in 2002.

Established in 1994 by the Japanese Automobile Federation, the Super GT series is a grand touring car race series promoted by the GT-Association (GT-A) and recognized by the FIA. Races are held as part of a yearly series and take place on well known Japanese race tracks like Twin Ring Motegi, Fuji Speedway, and Suzuka Circuit.

SuperGT is one of the favourite race for our spectator, which mainly are Malaysian. SIC will try to find ways to make it more affordable and fun,” said Chief Executive Officer Razlan Razali.

Being it the only race outside of Japan, we are proud to organize this prestigious race.

“It is a great way to promote the country especially countries within Asia region. And with a strong global following of the series, Malaysia will again stand out in the world map on this race weekend”.

“Besides the colourful Japanese cars on the grid, the GT Queens has always been the attraction to the race to add more colour and fun” he added.

The cars are divided into two groups: GT500 and GT300 (cars with no more than 500 and 300 horsepower) in which are raced at the same time although points are awarded separately for each group.

Perhaps the best-known handicap system in use in the Super GT is the ’success ballast’ system, called “weight handicap” where weight penalties are assigned depending on a cars performance during the race weekend.

The system adds ballast on the cars based on qualifying position and individual lap times, and even in specific modifications.

Tickets of the Main Grandstand can be purchase at only RM100. SIC is also offering a special family package at RM250 for four Main Grandstand ticket. Children below seven years old are free admission.

In promoting the event and getting the nation into the SuperGT mood, Razlan said a total of 20 Japan supercars would be organizing special tours around the Klang Valley and would visit various popular hotspots. Log on to SIC website for latest updates on dates, times and venue for the convoy.

SIC would also be organizing mobile roadshows which among others would include interactive games with the public and offering lots of prizes.

“This has never been done before by SIC in the past. We hope to give people who have yet to experience the race a feel of what to expect,” said Razlan.

“We will be hitting all the hotspots around Klang Valley and everyone is welcome to enjoy all the fun and games we are offering or even just take pictures with the fleet of supercars which will be at every venue.

The campaign starts today with Taman Tun Dr. Ismail, Damansara and the OUG the targeted areas. In wooing the fans to the race, SIC will be offering a 50% discount for tickets and the promotion available at all SIC hotspots.

Passes for Sunday’s Pit Walkabout only RM100 while parking charges for bikes at RM2, cars at RM5 and bus at RM20.

For details and prices, log on to www.sepangcircuit.com or contact the Media Manager Irwan A. Rahman +6017 372 5777.

Round 1 : March 16 at Suzuka Circuit
Round 2 : April 13 at Okayama International Circuit
Round 3 : May 4 at Fuji Speedway
Round 4 : June 22 at Sepang International Circuit
Round 5 : July 27 at Sportsland SUGO
Round 6 : August 24 at Suzuka Circuit
Round 7 : September 14 at Twin Ring Motegi
Round 8 : October 19 at Autopolis
Round 9 : November 9 at Fuji Speedway