Drivers ready for 2nd National Rally

AMMAN — The second round of the National Rally Championship “La Storia Museum Rally” kicks off on Friday with the participation of nine drivers.

Winner of the first round Khaled Juma told The Jordan Times that this Rally will be more challenging.

“The Rally will be held around Madaba with a total distance of 186.89km including nine special stages with a total distance of 63.69km which are all new stages. The best thing about this rally is that it will be held on gravel which gives more freedom for drivers,” he said.

Juma, who is heading the standings with 25 points, added: “I am looking to add another 25 points, but in rallying anything can happen.”

Drivers will have to go through Bahra (9.74km), Kroum (5.46km) and Ghernata (6.03km) three times each.

Meanwhile, third-placed winner Raed Habaybeh said that the rally will be an opportunity to prepare for the Jordan Rally.

“It is all a big training session for Jordan Rally and although I have only 15 points from one round I am sure that the experience I will gain for me will be useful at the Jordan Rally,” he said.

“Of course I will do my best to beat Juma on Friday. It is also a good chance to take the  lead too,” he added.

 Othman Naseef, Jordan Motorsport CEO said that all preparations for an exciting event have been concluded.

“Safety issues are our main concern and we have taken the right measures to make sure drivers and fans are safe and at the same time enjoy the event,” he said.

The rally takes its name from the La Storia Museum Complex in Madaba which is a combination of folk, history and a handicrafts centre.

“It is our way of introducing Jordan’s touristic places to the world and encourage people to visit them and enjoy one round of rallying,” Naseef said.

Only one women driver will take part in the event.

“Lina Hadidi is teaming up with her co-driver Barkev Shadian,” Naseef said.

“We also have Raed Habaibeh is teaming up with his daughter Marina as his co-driver and this is a great story,” he added.