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A campaign to improve the safety of road-users in Bahrain was kick-started at the weekend's Gulf Air Desert 400 V8 Supercars Championship even at Bahrain International Circuit.
Ace drivers, James Courtney of Dick Johnson Racing and Paul Dumbrell of Ford Performance Racing donned reflective bands and helmets as they cycled around the paddock area to highlight the need for cyclists to take preventative measures when they set out on the roads.
Courtney, wearing bright white, said: "We try to do around 300km a week on our bikes. It's great fitness, low impact and for a 100km ride over three hours we try to keep our heart rate high which is similar to what we have in the car. It's a great fitness for us to prepare for motor racing.
"We ride quite early in the morning, wear protective gear and high-visibility bright colours. You have to really watch out for the guys in cars because they are not really watching out for you. The awareness is getting a lot better now as cycling is becoming more and more popular but we still need to watch out for them."
Dumbrell wearing blue, added: "The biggest part about riding is having the luxury of being able to ride and train on the road. It's the best place to train and quite good fun. But both riders and drivers have to respect each other. It's a communal avenue that you both have to share and you have to be aware of the cars. Sometimes drivers who aren't experienced don't look so make sure you where a helmet, gloves, protective clothing and don't ride in a dangerous situation."
Organiser David Axtell was joined at the campaign launch by Abdul Aziz Al Thawadi, general manager of the Bahrain Motor Federation, which has agreed to provide safety lectures to Bahraini schools and universities while also distributing leaflets with safety tips aimed at both motorists and cyclists.
Also, attending the launch was Dr Amjad Obeid who will co-ordinate the assistance of medical staff and paramedics in driving the campaign.
Members of the MAD Mountainbike Stunt and Display team participated in the event. Riders Tim Steadman, Mike Singleton and Scott Wilson put on a breathtaking display involving the V8 drivers in the paddock and in the teams' pits, all while wearing reflective bands to promote cycling safety.
Team director Giles Wolfe said: "The team spends much of its time in the UK working with local councils and schools to promote cycling as a healthy activity."
The team provides cycling tips on balance and control to children and help promote road safety.
