Bangkok, 11 November, 2016 – The world’s fastest motorsport series – Air Race 1 – will make its Asia-Pacific premier in Thailand as Air Race 1 Thailand Presented by Chang to be held this November (19-20 November, 2016) at the U-Tapao Rayong-Pattaya International Airport. This is a pre-event to qualify Thailand to host Air Race 1 World Cup 2017, which will be part of the 50th Anniversary ASEAN International fleet Review.
Leading a series of mind-blowing, jaw-dropping aerial spectacles at the Air Race 1 Thailand Presented by Chang is American star Thom Richard, the reigning champion; aerial acrobatics; a Fancy Drill from the Royal Thai Navy; Air Race exhibition plus many adrenaline-inducing activities. The event is jointly organised by the Ministry of Tourism and Sports (MOTS), the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT), and the Royal Thai Navy, and is sponsored by Thai Beverage PCL.
The high-profile event was announced to the public in early 10 Novembers at the press conference chaired by H.E. General Thanasak Patimaprakorn, Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister, and joined by Mr. Pongpanu Svetarundra, MOTS Permanent Secretary; Mr. Sakol Wannapong, SAT Governor; Admiral Paladej Charoenpool, Royal Thai Navy’s Deputy Commander-in-Chief; Mr. Jeff Zaltman, Air Race 1 CEO; and Mr. Vichate Tantiwanich, Thai Beverage PCL Senior Vice President.
According to Mr. Pongpanu Svetarundra, MOTS Permanent Secretary, the Ministry’ initiative of integrated sport tourism has been assigned to the SAT which culminated in the hosting the Asian premier of Air Race 1 Thailand Presented by Chang. “The event is the world pinnacle of flying races with growing fan base around the world. Hosting the race in Thailand shall positively contribute to the image of the country while boosting tourism and economy,” he said.
Mr. Sakol Wannapong, SAT Governor said, “The Air Race 1 is a fastest motorsport that dates back over the 100 years ago with speeds up to 450km/hr. It is popularly known as the Formula 1 of air racing and aircrafts are specifically designed and built for racing under an established set of rules. Air Race 1 promotes the marriage of the finest flying skills and aeronautic technologies in the world.”
Affirming the confidence in Thailand as a premier destination for sport tourism, Mr. Jeff Zaltman, Air Race 1 CEO said, “The Air Race 1 this 19-20 November is a demonstration event to confirm the preparedness of Thailand as a host to the Air Race 1 World Cup 2017. This year we will have six aircrafts racing simultaneously at speeds over 450 kph around pylons, which mark the oval race course at a thrilling low 10-meter above the sea level to cross the finish line. We are excited about the opportunity to work with our Thai partners and the Thai people.”
Speed enthusiasts are entitled to get up close to the world-class pilots in a Pit Walk (for Pit Walk ticket holders) prior to the races. Confirmed racing pilots for this event are all world-class, including Thom Richard – reigning Air Race 1 champion last year, Justin Meaders, Stanislas Damiron, Philip Goforth, Justin Phillipson and Steve Temple.
Supporting activities for the Air Race 1 include many nail-biting shows including aerial acrobatics and the Fancy Drill to be performed by aces of the Royal Thai Navy. While the Exhibitions will feature top exotic race airplanes and helicopters, air racing exhibition, Thai Fight AIR RACE 1 Muay Thai Boxing, Canon photography workshop, Car Clubs and Big Bikes gatherings of over 200 vehicles. To fill the tummy and quench thirst, dozens of top yummy food vendors certified by Mae Choi Nang Rum, Thong Fah shops and products of the Naval Officers’ Wives Club will be there to satisfy every needs.
Admiral Phaldej Charoenpool, Royal Thai Navy’s Deputy Commander-in-Chief, as the executive in charge of the venue, has confirmed the preparedness for the upcoming world class flying event and assured that the strictest safety and security measures will be implemented both within the venue grounds and surrounding areas. To facilitate the expected tens of thousands of spectators, a massive car park for several thousand vehicles have been arranged and amenities such as mobile toilets and environmental care are being prepared.
Mr. Vichate Tantiwanich, Senior Vice President of Thai Beverage PCL said, “Thai Beverage is delighted to sponsor the Asian and Thailand premier of the world’s fastest motorsport event, the Air Race 1 Thailand Presented by Chang. This is the first of its kind in Thailand and we hope to receive a warm welcome from the Thai motorsport fans. On top of the sponsorship, we also showcase many of our unique and exciting activities in the AIR RACE Exhibition zone.”
Tickets are available at the gate for 300 Baht for the general public and free admission for students in uniforms. Pit Walk tickets will be available at an extra 300 Baht per person.
The above photo gallery of the press conference see the VIPs, members of the media and guests pay their respects to the Late King of Thailand, His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej, with a minute’s silence. The first and second pictures show H.E. General Thanasak declared Thailand’s official host country status for the Air Race 1 Thailand Presented by Chang and toured the exhibition area.
The above is a photo gallery of the Air Race 1 Thailand Presented by Change exhibition at the Sports Authority of Thailand’s headquarters in Bangkok, and a teaser air show (picture 1).
For more information
Tel: +66 (0) 63 268 5532
Website: www.airrace1thailand.com
