Unprecedented Commitment and Belief in Local Talent

June, 08th 2008, Castrol EDGE the premium product from Castrol, the global motor lubes maker, today announced its sponsorship of the three leading Emarati race champions, Khaled Al Baloushi, Badr Ahli and Juma Al Seem, of significant racing events like the fifth UAE Drag Race Championship, and the 2007 Bahrain Championship. The Castrol EDGE sponsorship of Al Baloushi, Ahli and Al Seem is the first of its kind and is part of Castrol EDGE's continued commitment to enhancing local talents and providing them with the means to achieve excellence.

The local champions are dedicated to their racing passion, and invest time and energy into their valued cars. Badr Ahli drives a 1941 Carbon Fiber Dodge with a Chrome Molly chassis, an engine power of 15,000cc and around 2500 horse power. Juma Al Seem drives a ProMod category Corvette, an Outlaw category Camaro SS, and a pick-up truck from the 7.5 category, while Khaled Al Baloushi races with a ProMod category Carbon Fiber and Fiber Glass Chevrolet Cavalier with a Chrome Molly chassis, and an engine of 2500 horsepower.

Castrol EDGE sponsorship of the three racers presents them with an opportunity to tap into international racing events in addition to providing them with financial endorsement to maintain their development. Moreover, they will become official members of the unparalleled car passionates website - motoraddicts.com, giving them access to upload their own drag racing blogs and photographs prior to as well as after events, and giving them global exposure to a wider audience of drag racing enthusiasts.

Mohammed Samir, Castrol Marketing Manager, Middle East commented: "The sponsorship of local racing talents by Castrol EDGE is a perfect fit. Racing is a sport that requires commitment and passion, and it is gaining a significant fan-base across the region.  This first of its kind sponsorship is another reflection of Castrol EDGE brand's promise to achievement, progress and distinguished performance. We are delighted to support the distinctive talent of Khaled Al Balosuhi, Badr Ahli and Juma Al Seem and we are confident their unique skill and flair will ensure many more regional as well as global titles."

The racers agree that through their participation in difficult races like the UAE Drag Race Championship and the 2007 Bahrain Championship they have proved that local racers have the talent and persistence to succeed in difficult competitions.

The partnership with CastroI EDGE and the sponsorship support will allow the racers to reach new audiences and proudly represent the UAE at leading racing events. Commenting on future opportunities, they announced their plans to participate in the ProMod category of drag races in Australia and America.  

-Ends- 

About Castrol EDGE:
Castrol in the Middle East: The business has over 60 years experience in the region and additionally manages Iran, Levant & Southern of Africa markets. The business services more than a twenty countries from the Dubai headquarters.  Castrol EDGE was developed inside five years in close co-operation with leading manufacturers and with a research investment of more than US $25 million.  The results of this research - the motor oils of the Castrol EDGE product range - have recently reached shelves in Middle East outlets, delivering performance and expertise of high performance motor sport

For further information please contact:
Cynthia Darwish,
Associate Account Manager,
GolinHarris,
Dubai: +971 50 216 3352

Aya Yassein,
Account Executive,
GolinHarris,
Dubai: +971 50 544 0997

© Press Release 2008