representative for international endurance races in Korea, and for the Korea International Circuit. Such race events also help promote our tourism sectors, as well as help elevate opportunities for local and regional businesses.”
A grand total of US$500,000 prize money was awarded to podium winners this year; consisting of five classes (GT3, GTC, Sports Production, Touring Production 1 and 2); of which the overall winner will took home US$200,000 in prize money. With up to 200 drivers from around the world expected to participate, RACE123 is hoping to build into a regular festival of speed as the race will operate in a combined race system without classification.
In the top category of 'RACE123' will be the GT3 class, comprising of GT3 vehicles registered with the Federation Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), such as Super Taikyu STX of Japan. The GTC class will see vehicles from supercar one make races such as the Audi R8 LMS Cup, Porsche Carrera Cup, Ferrari Challenge, Lamborghini Super Trofeo Series and Trofeo Maserati.
With such a plethora of classes on offer, the event wouldn’t just raise the profile of Australian racing in Asia, but also provide huge opportunities for young Australian drivers without major backing to drive with local Asian teams.
With Supercars unable to secure an Asian calendar sport with the cancelation of the KL City Grand Prix this year, Asian GT Racing has the opportunity to flex its combined muscle. Whether Australia accepts the invitation to join the party remains to be seen.
Images: Joel Strickland Photographic
Images: Race123