Sulayem launches Emiratization drive for Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

In separate presentations to the Abu Dhabi Men's College and the Abu Dhabi Women's College of the Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT) on Thursday, Sulayem, who is also FIA Vice President for Sport, said:

"This event is going to be the biggest that Abu Dhabi and our country has ever witnessed. It is a matter of national pride and I would like each and every one of you to come forward and be part of Formula One racing history in the UAE."

Sulayem noted that come November 1, 2009, one part of a long cherished dream of seeing an F1 race held in the UAE would be fulfilled. "But this in itself is not enough. You, as the future of this country, must be part of this historic event.

"We will be flying in the required expertise from overseas for this event and I want you to learn from them, because five years down the line I want to see 90 percent, if not more, of the manpower to comprise of Emiratis," he added.

The ATCUAE president, however, sounded a warning when he said: "If you commit yourself today, be prepared to unreservedly give your time and energy to the task ahead."

Elaborating on the required manpower, ATCUAE Sports Project Director Ronan Morgan pointed out that approximately 600 personnel including marshals, medics, extrication crew, runners, scrutineers, communicators, etc would be required on-track.

Apart from this, human resources would be required to cover areas such as hospitality, guest relations and media.

"These are by no means small tasks. Your involvement in the areas of your interest will go a long way to ensuring the success of this very prestigious event in which the leadership of Abu Dhabi has made a huge financial and human investment."

Andy King, Senior Operations Manager of Takatof - the Social Volunteering Program of Emirates Foundation, the national volunteer center of the UAE - in his presentation said: "This represents a rare opportunity to be involved as more than a spectator; to fill a key role in an event of awesome proportions and complexity. This will be an exciting and memorable experience."

Over the next week the students are expected to submit their applications for the various openings, with the first marshal's training day set for May 29, to be held at the Dubai Autodrome from 9am.