Takatof volunteers take their positions for 2012 Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

Volunteers were put through their paces at Yas Marina Circuit, host circuit of the Formula 1 race where for the fourth year running Takatof will provide 250 volunteers for the international motor race event. Volunteers were taken through their roles by experienced group leaders, advised how to handle a number of different possible scenarios, and shown their positions in the Grandstand.

As in previous years, volunteers will play a vital part in the smooth running of the 2012 Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Etihad Airways Grand Prix, including meeting and greeting spectators and ensuring the safety of the crowd during the race itself. As well as exposing volunteers to the largest sporting event in the UAE, it will help develop their interest and skills in motorsport, event management and public engagement.

Emirates Foundation's Chief Programmes Officer, Maytha Al Habsi, said, "The volunteers training here today will make a crucial contribution to the success of the event. They include people of all ages who have come from far and wide across the UAE to play their part, and I have seen first-hand their unique enthusiasm that will give visitors and participants from around the world an unforgettable experience."

"Volunteering in big international events is a great way to meet with different people from different backgrounds. It is an excellent learning experience for our UAE Youth who are looking forward to it every year," she added.

Richard Cregan, the Chief Executive Officer of Yas Marina Circuit, said: "For the fourth year running we are thankful to the many volunteers who have given up their time to ensure the success of the F1 weekend. The Formula 1TM Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix has emerged as one of the most exciting and anticipated races on the international F1 calendar.

"As they have in previous years, the volunteers here today will play a major role in the success of the event - ensuring a fun and safe weekend for all fans as they also showcase the UAE's warm hospitality and rich culture to the rest of the world," added Cregan.

Hanan Al Hawai, a 26 year old account manager for a communications company, said: "Volunteering is my chance to give something back to the community. The training by Takatof has been first-class and well run. They are doing an amazing job to get everyone organized for such a big event like the 2012 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix."

The main duties of volunteers will be welcoming guests at the Abu Dhabi and Dubai airports, organising transport, escorting VIP visitors, guest support at the grandstands, supporting media representatives, welcoming participants at the parking centre in Al Shahama, facilitating guests' trips by driving the Takatof courtesy cars inside the circuit and volunteering at Ferrari World. The training programme is part of mandatory sessions for all the volunteers.