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Tribune News Network
DOHA
Qatari driver Mohammed Raslan al Khait emerged as the fastest driver in the Losail Time Attack on Friday night.
Behind the wheel of McLaren MP4 12C, Khait clocked an impressive 2:17.401 in his second lap to top the Group A. He was about four and a half kms faster than second-placed Lebanese Makram Bouchacra, who was driving GT4 and clocked 2:22.014.
German Martin Staffel completed the podium with a 2:27.332 in GT3-911.
Divided into three different groups depending on the specifications of the car, each driver was able to drive for two 20 minutes sessions to get the best time and qualify for the final.
"It was amazing but I hope next time, more faster cars can enter my category and the competition is more challenging. Overall the event was very good, everybody enjoyed a lot and thanks to Losail Circuit Sports Club for organising this event," commented Khait at the podium ceremony.
Argentine driver Juan Pablo Pinto (M3) was the winner in the Group B with a 2:23.463 lap and Qatar's Mohammed al Khayarin (Evolution) turned out to be the quickest in the Group C after posting 2:27.281.
Khait also got the trophy for the fastest lap during the event with a time of 2:16.985.
The new season for the Qatar Touring Car Championship will kick off on November 30 and December 1 during the FIA World Touring Car Championship's Race of Qatar as the support race.
An official practice for the QTCC drivers was organised on Thursday and Friday to help them fine-tune and set up their cars for the opening round. During the practice, Qatari driver Nasser al Kuwari, with a GT86, was the fastest driver with a lap time of 2:27.028.
"Overall I am happy with the performance during these two days. This will be my first time I enter this type of competition as I have done racing in rallies before. I want to thank my father all his support with this car in order to compete in the QTCC," said Kuwari.
The second fastest driver was Saadon al Kuwari with a lap time of 2:27.394 and Abdullah al Khelaifi finished third with a time of 2:27.807.
QTCC defending champion Abdullah al Khelaifi is looking forward to start a new season together with the FIA World Touring Car Championship."I am very excited to be back. This is where it all started for me and I am planning to defend my title and give a good showing before WTCC drivers and audience as our race will be held with WTCC race of Qatar.
"Regarding the official practice, it went well as I gathered as many information to modify and find the correct set-up for our race. I wish all the best for all the drivers and hope that the new drivers enjoy this championship," said Khelaifi.
The runner-up of 2016-17 QTCC season Mansour al Hajri couldn't take part in the official practice but he will contest in the first round.
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19/11/2017
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