Abu Dhabi, UAE, 25th June 2009. Motorsports fans around the world can now drive the spectacular new Yas Marina Circuit, months before Jenson Button, Lewis Hamilton, and the rest of the professional drivers arrive for the first Formula 1™ Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
Yas Marina Circuit's 'Virtual Driver Experience', launched today, provides a unique opportunity to experience the adrenalin rush of the most anticipated race-track in the world and see some of its special features from the driver's perspective.
Navigate the tricky hairpin inside the arena atmosphere of the North Grandstand, reach maximum speed on F1's longest straight, wind around the multiple turns of Yas Marina, and pass underneath The Yas Hotel.
The Virtual Driver Experience can be played online by visiting www.yasmarinacircuit.com
Users race the circuit using keyboard controls, trying to stay on the ideal driving line and gearing up or down to maximize their speed and record the fastest lap-time.
Mr Richard Cregan, CEO of Abu Dhabi Motorsports Management, Yas Marina Circuit's operating company, said, "There is so much interest in Yas Marina Circuit and the race here in Abu Dhabi on November 1st that the Virtual Driver Experience is a great opportunity for motor sports fans to get as close to the action as possible before race day".
He added, "Our Virtual Driver Experience is simple to use but a challenge to master. Whether you are accelerating down the longest straight on any Formula 1 circuit, skidding off the track under the Grandstand, tackling the tricky Marina and Yas Yacht Club corners or driving beneath The Yas Hotel, every lap offers a challenge. Once you've posted your time, you can also challenge others to better it through the "send to a friend" option."
The first Formula 1™ Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix will be held from 30 October - 1 November 2009.
A limited number of seats are still available. Go to www.yasmarinacircuit.com for more details.
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Notes to Editors
Images: To download high resolution images of Yas Marina Circuit and related activities please visit the media centre at: www.yasmarinacircuit.com.
Interview Requests: For interviews with Mr Cregan, please contact Paul Quinn or Kawthar Bin Sulayem on the contact details above.
About Abu Dhabi Motorsports Management (ADMM)
ADMM L.L.C. is a joint venture between the Government of Abu Dhabi and ALDAR Properties PJSC, the leading developer in the Emirate. Incorporated in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, the company has been established to oversee the construction of Yas Marina Circuit, home of the 2009 Formula 1™ Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, and the successful ongoing operations of the track.
ADMM will manage the circuit's racing properties as well as all other facilities on the circuit grounds, including the drag strip, and karting. ADMM's management team, consisting of leading industry professionals, is committed to delivering a world-class and state-of-the-art motor sport venue.
For more information please contact:
Nicole Hayde, Head of Communications, ADMM
Tel: +971 (0) 2 4100 823
Mobile: +971 (0) 50 509 1090
Email: nicole.hayde@eaa.gov.ae
Paul Quinn, International Media Manager, ADMM
Tel: +971 (0) 2 4100 824
Mobile: +971 (0) 50 584 0950
Email: paul.quinn@eaa.gov.ae
Kawthar Bin Sulayem, Local Media Manager, ADMM
Tel: +971 (0) 2 4100 862
Mobile: +971 (0) 50 358 8220
Email: kawthar.binsulayem@eaa.gov.ae
© Press Release 2009
