Super GT Round 3 in Sepang to feature packed programme
This 17-19 June, the Sepang circuit will play host to the Super GT Round 3, the only Super GT race held outside Japan. First-time hosts of the event, JP Performance Motorsport (JPM) is putting together an action-packed programme to keep visitors entertained over the two days at the Sepang International Circuit.
Main Races
GT 500
(Qualifying: Saturday, 18 June | Race: Sunday, 19 June )
The GT500 category will see cars with no more than 500 horsepower. Regulations in the GT500 are considerably looser than most GT classifications, and teams are free to change engines with other models made by the manufacturer, change the alignment of the engine, or add forced-induction systems to models which do not normally have it, however from 2010 onwards all GT500 cars run V8 engines displacing 3.4 liters.
The three top teams in the GT500 category are Nissan, Honda and Lexus, with a few others participating as well.
GT 300
(Qualifying: Saturday, 18 June| Race: Sunday, 19 June)
The GT300 category will see cars with no more than 300 horsepower racing and pitting it out on the tracks. Famous luxury car models such as Porsche, Lamborghini and Ferrari will battle it out against top Japanese car makes such as Subaru, Mazda, Nissan, Autobacs, Lexus and others in the GT300 category, making it much more varied in terms of types of cars entered and a racing category that has one of the most car manufacturers participating at the same time. GT300 cars, however, are much more regulated than their GT500 counterparts, because GT300 cars closely resemble road-going versions.
Supporting Races
GT3/GT4 Asia Cup
The GT Asia Series for 2011 combines GT3 Asia with the GT4 Asia Cup into one Championship, incorporating some of the best features from each Series.
Renault Megane Cup
Powered by 2.0-litre turbocharged engines boasting minimum power outputs of 250hp and above, 340Nm of torque from as low down as 3,000rpm and F1 inspired on-screen technology, the Renault Megane is an exceptional track car. The inaugural Renault Megane Cup that pits 25 of them each other.
Toyota Vios Cup (Thailand)
Drivers from Thailand racing each other in the humble Toyota Vios.
Pit Walkabout and Paddock Passes
(All race days; Pit and Paddock Passes can be purchased)
Super GT is one of only a few races in the world which allows fans to get up close and personal with the cars, teams and drivers. A variety of ticket options give you access to various parts of the track.
Family Carnival Showcasing Japanese Culture
(17-19 June)
The weekend will see the Sepang circuit transformed into a carnival city filled with stalls and booths that exposes visitors to various aspects and elements of Japanese culture. No Japanese AV though, we reckon. Here are some highlights:
Anime Exhibition
One of Japans biggest exports and latest culture to take the world by storm is the anime culture. To share this unique and wacky culture with Malaysians, there will be art exhibitions, booth sales, games, cosplay, anime war games and performances.
Biggest Car Show of the Year
JPM will also be organizing the Biggest Super/Performance Car Gathering at the Sepang F1 Track on 19th of June 2011, Sunday. The plan is to line-up the Super/Performance cars back to back along the entire 5.35km track.
JPM is inviting the participation of car clubs and owners to make this event a success. Each participating car gets four grand stand tickets worth RM400
Kids Walkabout
A special Kids Pit Walkabout session will allow children to get up close and personal with the Super GT race cars and teams for FREE. Usually, race teams will give out freebies such as stickers, stationaries and toys to the children during this activity.
Circuit Safari
Fans will be taken for a 10 minute ride in a bus around the Sepang track while the Super GT cars and doing their warm up laps.
Flea Market & Weekend Bazaar
Select from a vast amount of stalls and booths to get your dose of Japanese and Malaysian cuisine, fashion and trinkets.
Rock Concert Held on the Track
(Sunday 19 June, South Paddock)
First ever concert to be held on the actual Sepang racing track. Band line-up will feature popular local and Indonesian artists to be confirmed next week.
Velocita – Official Super GT Rave Party
(Saturday 18 June, 6pm onwards, Sepang)
Pictures: Official Super GT release.
