Ammon News - AMMAN - Preparations to host the third round of the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC), which will kick off April 1-3 from the spectacular Oval Plaza in Jerash, are on track.

Khaled Zakaria, Jordan Rally clerk of the course, told The Jordan Times that two stages need to be fixed due to the heavy rain.

"Al Bahath and Jordan River stages need some fixing as they were affected by the heavy rain which hit the Kingdom," he said.

"In addition a complete review of all stages will also be conducted to make sure that everything is according to the plans," he added.

The weather condition which hit the country recently brought some heavy rain and snow to major areas which led rally officials to request the assistance of Greater Amman Municipality and Ministry of Public Works and Housing.

"We would like to thank them for their efforts and assistance and their endless support which will help in making this event a successful one," he said.

Zakaria said that HRH Prince Feisal, chairman of Jordan Motorsport, followed closely the work of the organising committees.

"HRH Prince Feisal met several times with the organising committees and gave his directives and areas of special interests to make sure that everything goes according to the FIA regulations and the plans set for the global event," he said.

"The Prince was really happy with the work conducted by all supporters and government organisations," he added.

The 2010 Jordan Rally WRC consists of 346 competitive kilometres over the three days. As well as Jerash, competitors will take in other world-famous locations such as the Dead Sea, the Baptism Site and Mount Nebo.

The call for more volunteers to help with the rally is still on.

"We have an excellent number of volunteers who are working and training on aspects of the rally. They are excited that they will have a chance to rub shoulders with world rally drivers and take photos with the best in this sport," Zakaria said.

"The door is still open for more volunteers to join the army of enthusiasts," he added.

Meanwhile, rally organisers are still waiting for the FIA approval on one great idea.

"We are seeking FIA approval on shifting the crowning area to the service area, this way we can make sure that all fans have the chance to watch," he said.

Chairman of the Saudi Arabian Motor Federation Mishaal Al Sudairy expressed his pride that Jordan will host one round of the WRC.

"The Jordanian auto sport has moved forward due to the endless support of the Royal family headed by His Majesty King Abdullah and HRH Prince Feisal," he said.

"I have witnessed the work of professionals covering the administrative and technical part of the rally and this reflects the experience Jordan accumulated through the years of hosting big and important events," he added.

Following the ceremonial launch, set for 11:00am, drivers will travel the short distance to start their competitive kilometres in the forests of Rumman before continuing south with stages through the Jordan Valley and finishing close to the Dead Sea headquarters. Action will continue for two days, with the finale expected at the Dead Sea on April 3.



*** The Jordan Rally WRC service park at the Dead Sea (Photo courtesy of the Jordan Rally)


By Roufan Nahhas/ Jordan Times