www.bahrainthismonth.com January 2014 59 A sunny, winter afternoon, two men and a four-wheel mean machine — can it possibly get any better? In fact, it does. George Middleton joins Martin Whitaker for a backseat chat in the new Range Rover L405 as they drive through the Amwaj Islands. Catch them in action on www.bahrainthismonth.com and www.euromotors.com.bh. George: Martin you’re inextricably linked with the birth of motor sports in Bahrain and the Middle East region. Could you tell us a little about what you’re actually doing nowadays? Martin: First of all it’s very kind of you to say that. I am now running my own company called Sportique 88, to develop a new operation here in the Middle East and just trying to help raise the profile and awareness of Bahrain on an international stage. George: So you focus mostly on sports events? Martin: Predominantly sports events, but also cultural and entertainment events. George: What opportunities do you see for sports events in Bahrain? Martin: I think it’s very big. At the moment we have some really good, stand-out, showcase events; Formula One is clearly an example. What we do need to do is establish manageable, cost-effective, interesting sports, where there can be audience participation and most importantly, young people. George: You’re also involved with the Great British Week event. Can you tell us a little bit more about it? Martin: Yeah, it’s difficult to talk about the Great British Week without saying that it’s great! It’s an opportunity for the British community not only to demonstrate the relationship it has with Bahrain, but more importantly (it’s an opportunity) to demonstrate very clearly British excellence in engineering, technology and innovation. So the Great British Week is a fantastic event, which is going to demonstrate all those qualities. It’s run in association with the other activities that are taking place; for instance, the Bahrain International Air Show, which is growing in stature every year. George: Tell me what you see of Britain in Bahrain? Martin: There’s a great relationship between Britain and Bahrain. It goes back to 200 years. We used to drive on the left here; it was the first destination for Concord…English plugs, English telephone system. We can go on and on about it. But most importantly there’s been a very strong link between the British and the Bahrainis. And I think you still sense that to this day — a really strong relationship and a lot of friendship. George: When you’re not busy organising sport events, how do you relax? What do you like to do? Martin: I think I just like the simple things in life. I am not a great one for sitting in front of the television. I’d rather be out and about doing things. And actually Bahrain’s a fantastic place to live. If you think about it, it’s got everything you want. George: So what’s your favourite thing about Bahrain? Martin: To begin with, the weather and the relaxing atmosphere. It’s an easy place to live. You want to go to the Formula One circuit here, its 20 minutes away; it’s 20 minutes from wherever you are! You’ve got some great shops, some fantastic ones, really good restaurants, five-star hotels and a living environment which is just friendly. To view the video, click the QR code above, or visit www.bahrainthismonth.com The Range Rover L405 is now available from Euro Motors, the official distributor for Jaguar Land Rover in the Kingdom of Bahrain. What a great car. This is the first time I’ve sat in the L405 ; it is a seriously nice ride – Martin.
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