THE drag strip at the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) witnessed a tough final "test and tune" round, in preparation for the first round of the Bahrain National Drag Racing Championship due to kick off this week.
Hundreds of fans and participants made their way to the hidden depths of Sakhir to watch rubber take to tarmac in what was a nail-biting practice. Over 11 racers lined up, one-by-one, to test themselves for the "Pro Mod" category.
The UAE's Bader "Superman" Al Ahli was also on the track testing his latest Mustang alongwith many other drivers who took their machines to their limits.
Fans also witnessed the gloves come partially off as Al Ahli and countryman Khaled Al Belushi practiced in preparation for the "Pro Mod" title, the most popular category across the GCC and Arab world.
It is expected that the championship will see the greatest battle to date in the "Pro Mod" category - especially since this is the first time that 11 drivers will be setting the strip alight in the hope of speeding to victory.
Emirati Juma Al-Seem's team was also amongst those participating in the "test and tune". Having won last year's "Outlaw" category, he is looking for a clash with top racers in a thrilling and exciting fight.
As for Qatar's Al Anabi team, they were excited to be competing alongside American drag racing star Shaun Jenkins, who will be sitting behind his GTO's steering wheel, and having Mustafa Al Atat race in the team's Mustang.
Qualifying races will be held tomorrow from 7pm to 11pm and the first race on the strip, for both cars and bikes, will begin on Friday at 7pm.
Tickets are priced between BD3 to BD5 and are available at the BIC.