FIM to inspect Jatinangor circuit

FIM to inspect Jatinangor circuit

JAKARTA (JP): The International Motor Federation's (FIM) top
official will inspect West Java's Jatinangor circuit which will
host the World 250cc Motor Cross Championships' 12th leg in
August.

The Indonesian Motor Federation's (IMI) chairman, Bob R. E.
Nasution, said Thursday that Tony Skilington would inspect the
circuit next month.

"This is an honor for us to have a visit to the circuit from
the FIM's top official," Bob said.

Indonesia was given the championship leg after successfully
organizing the 125cc championships in Yogyakarta for the last
three years.

The state minister for youth and sports affairs, Hayono Isman,
will open the race.

Several other dignitaries like President Soeharto's son,
Hutomo Mandala Putra, and West Java's governor will also attend.

ANteve will broadcast the two-day championships on Aug. 2 and
Aug. 3.

State-owned telecommunications firm PT Telkom will supply 28
phone lines for the organizers and participants.

Preparations are still underway at the circuit and organizer
Helmy Sungkar hopes everything will be finished by May 20.

"We want to make the circuit as exclusive as possible. All
expenses for the circuit's construction are being borne by the
IMI," Helmy said.

The 1,850-meter circuit is in a valley with its sloping tracks
at the Jatinangor regency near Bandung.

The organizers are planning to build a semipermanent wood
bridge for VIP spectators and as a tribune.

World class riders from 15 countries, including the United
States, Italy, England, Sweden, the Netherlands, Belgium, New
Zealand, Japan and Australia, will compete.

Foreign competitors are expected to arrive in Indonesia a week
before the championship to get a feel for the track.

Among the top riders will be Belgium's Everts Steven, the
world's leading 250cc rider.

Steven on his Honda, has garnered 130 points in the world
standings after four rounds.

He is trailed by countryman Bervoets Marnicq on 110 points.

Sebastian Tortelli, the 1996 125cc world champion who has
moved to the 250cc division, is third with 97 points.

Apart from the 250cc division, the organizer plans to hold
races for the 125cc and 80cc motorcycles.

"We are planning to have both national and foreign riders take
part in the two classes. We are seeking permission from both the
FIM and IMI for the two races," Helmy said. (lnt)