Oman motorsport: Al Qasimi finishes second, Soomar third in RAK Rally

Muscat: Omani drivers Hamid Al Qasimi and Khalid Soomar lived upto the expectations and achieved their target when they clinched podium places in the Ras Al Khaimah Rally, the third round of the UAE Rally Championship, during the weekend. Hamid Al Qasimi, ably assisted by his co-driver Mohammed Al Mazroui, overcame difficult conditions and stiff competition during the rain-affected rally to complete the stages in a time of 53 minutes and 8.681 seconds to finish second in Group N. Khalid Soomar, with Issa Al Wardi as co-pilot, settled for the third place in the same category after clocking 56:21.791. The event was won by Sheikh Abdullah Al Qasimi of the UAE. The rally was considered a great success with as many as 11 drivers completing the rally despite the rainy weather and difficult conditions. **media[637077]** Delighted with his second place finish, Hamid Al Qasimi the technical team and the organising committee for their support as while also expressing his gratitude to Zubair Establishment for providing him with spare parts. “I am very pleased with my performance and to be standing on the podium. And receive the second place trophy,” he said. “It’s great to represent my country in these rally events in the UAE and I am very happy to share this celebration with my colleagues and friends.” **media[637078]** Khalid Soomar, meanwhile, thanked the Target Company and Al Sheida Trading Company for their continued support. The veteran rallyist also hoped more local companies come forward with their support in the future.