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Over the weekend around 25,000 visitors turned out for the third Bahrain International Motor Show held at the Bahrain International Circuit in Sakhir.
This time around the three-day annual show catered to motoring enthusiasts and families on the lookout for a new car and a chance to enjoy a fun day out with friends.
Wassim Farhoud, chief executive officer of motor-trade specialist and event organisers Auto Collection, was delighted. He said: “The turnout was amazing as was the atmosphere and family entertainment. I saw a lot of happy children and parents walking around which really put a smile on my face.
“A lot of people think that the motor show is just for guys but I saw an equal amount of families and that was very important to us.
“I believe we have truly progressed in terms of organising the show and making sure we deliver great entertainment for all to enjoy.”
The event featured a performance from American Blues singer Rudy Relic and a display of classic and super cars including the Shelby GT500 used in the Hollywood blockbuster Gone in Sixty Seconds.
Top British stunt driver Terry Grant also thrilled the crowd with his crazy ‘Ultimate Car Control’ routine and he was followed by some Bahrain-based bikers putting on a stellar two-wheeled performance. Just as the spectators thought the action was all over the Slingshot Monster truck made an immediate impact by crushing a few cars and adding to the exciting atmosphere.
Visitors were also given an opportunity to test the Formula One circuit with their own vehicles during an open-track session.
More than 40 local companies exhibited their cars and trucks at the motor show including Euro Motors, Behbehani Brothers, Porsche Centre Bahrain and YK Almoayyed Group offering a range of new models and special promotions.
Euro Motors, for example, showcased the new BMW 6 Series Coupé and Convertible, BMW M3 Coupé and the MINI Countryman. Paul Yates, general manager, said: “The Bahrain International Motor Show was well-organised and popular and provided a perfect opportunity to showcase the latest products and technological developments.”
The YK Almoayyed Automotive Group showcased the new Infiniti G25, a modified Ford Mustang 2012 and the BD23,500 Ford Raptor 2012. Rehul Mahajan, marketing manager for Nissan, Infiniti and Renault, said: “This is our third time exhibiting and we have noticed an increase in positive responses.
“While I was with customers my wife Yotica took my 10-year-old daughter and three-year-old son to enjoy the family entertainment. They loved the stilt walkers, the Disney characters and the cotton candy.”
Visitors with a ‘need for speed’ also had the opportunity to experience the Audi R8 GT and RS5 on the circuit. Geetan Jessen, Audi Bahrain sales manager, said: “We had the Audi Driving Experience with the Audi R8 GT and RS5 and the turn-out was incredible to say the least.”
Visitor Mohammed Kashier, 32, a chartered accountant, from Zinj, enjoyed the show with his family, including wife, Amna, and brother, Adnan. He said: “I thought it was a really good show and a great chance for my brother, who was visiting from Dubai, to see the Bahrain International Circuit.
“My wife and I are also considering buying a new family car and this was a good opportunity to see what options we have and what new models are out in the market. My two-year-old son Mohammed enjoyed the different games and also got a chance to run around.”
Mino Rommel, 26, an aircraft mechanic, from Juffair, and his family were first timers to the show.
He said: “My wife, Donna, decided to take our three-year-old son Andrei to the show because he loves cars. We saw some great modified vehicles and the stunt shows were very exciting. It really was a fun day out for all.”
