Less than one month away to the Round 3 of the 2013 SUPER GT Series to be held in Malaysia (Sepang International Circuit, June 15th and 16th), an official press conference was held on May 21stin Kuala Lumpur, the capitol of this round’s hosting country.In addition to the more than 50 media representatives, such as thejournalists and photographersattending, many guests and members concerned were present at this occasion filled with good atmosphere and excitement for the coming event.
The conference opened with first, Mr. Masaaki Bandoh the Chairman of GTA extending his greetings and giving updates on how this season is coming so far, for instance the previous two rounds where already hot battling took place, and also that the season is already becoming an epoch-making season with hybrid machines claiming victory. Mr. Bandoh also added, “The GTA is determined to continue helping the development of motorsports in Malaysia and among other Asian countries alike, – such as in the form of “monozukuri”, endeavors and techniques for machine-making, which can be demonstrated through the development of the JAF GT300 machines. And we hope that you will keep your eyes on how both the JAF GT300 and the FIA GT300 machines will go about fighting hard!” As such, the Chairman also stressed on the point that GT300s may now establisha new sense of significance in the sport, which is something everyone can expect to see. And further, “We will continue our efforts to stage racing events here in Malaysia and in other Southeast Asian countries, that will takerootand be adapted to the locality of the regions, and overall be well-accepted by everyone.” With these being said, Mr. Bandoh promised to stay dedicated to the long and ever-more friendly relations between Japan and Malaysia.
Next, the Managing Director of JPM (the Event Promoter), Mr. TJ Chin shared his greeting remarks. “This is our third time serving as the Promoter of this event. We are pleased to hold the exciting SUPER GT race in Malaysia again this year. Last year, we organized the “Akihabara Street” event, which amusedmany local fans, and this yearalong with the motor show we will provide an Area that will ever-more express the feeling of Japanese culture. And also as something new will be the “Summernats”- so please look forward to that as well,” Mr. Chin added to the details of his announcements.
Then Mr. Andrew Lopez representing the “Summernats”also stood to introduce what this presentation is all about. “This is a carnival event which has been held in Canberra, Australia since 1988, where everybody brings streetcars for “Burnout” contests (wheel-spin the tires till they puff out white fumes) and parades, enjoyed by more than 100 thousand people, each time,” explained Mr. Lopez. “In fact, this is the first time ever to be held outside of Australia, and what’s more, at a very exciting event like the SUPER GT. We are looking forward to this very precious opportunity of Japan, Malaysia and Australia, the crossing of the three cultures and nations to take place,” he further commented.
And finally, the three representatives took partin the signing ceremony. And as their signatories were placed, everyone clapped their hands and gave applause. Also present at this conference was a demonstration-car promoting this event, a machine based on Mosler MT900R of Thunder Asia team, known for theirbig achievement of regular entry in the SUPER GT Series. The SUPER GT grid girls also gave appearance on this day, adding glitter to the overall atmosphere.
Source : SUPER GT