Race on to name circuit's slowest vehicle!

Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) is calling on school students from all across the Kingdom to put on their thinking caps and help give a striking new identity to the circuit’s slowest, yet one of its most important, vehicles: the BIC sweeper.

The campaign has been launched to bring some much-needed character to a crucial member of the team, which currently meanders around the circuit anonymously. The sweeper performs one of the most important tasks at BIC, travelling around the track day and night, cleaning the tarmac so that it is in optimum condition to drive or race on.

This incredible workhorse travels an amazing 2,180 laps every year at an average speed of just 5kph.

Despite its heroic work as a crucial member of the BIC family, the sweeper sadly has no name and little character at the moment, and needs cheering up, according to track officials.

All students are invited to give some life to the sweeper and join the competition, formulating a fitting name and an outstanding and colourful design. As BIC is an international venue, the name must be in English.

The winning name and design will be adapted for the size of the sweeper to get it ready for its toughest and most important week of the year – the upcoming Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix 2020 happening March 19 to 22.

Furthermore, BIC will also be bringing the winning student to a special unveiling of the sweeper at BIC, a week before the Grand Prix, and he or she may even get a chance to ride in the new character.

The competition is open to school children in Bahrain, both primary and secondary students, of all ages and nationalities. Entries must be sent by e-mail to schools@bic.com.bh and received no later than Wednesday, February 26.

BIC Chief Operating Officer Fayez Ramzy Fayez said: “The sweeper plays a very important role all through the year in ensuring that our track is in its best condition for use, which is crucial for the safety of our guests and to make sure that they have the best possible experience on the circuit.

“Being such a big part of our BIC family, we want to give the sweeper the personality it deserves. Naming it, while giving it a striking new design, helps us achieve that.

“We are asking all the bright young minds in Bahrain to help us come up with something creative and fitting that would really bring the sweeper to life!

“We look forward to seeing all the wonderful entries and I have no doubt that we will have a tough time selecting a winner.”

Entries will be judged by a panel at BIC and its decision will be final.