Gulf Finance House and Khaleeji Commercial Bank Announces Team GFH

In a strategic initiative to support the Kingdom of Bahrain’s global vision to be Middle East racing hub, Gulf Finance House (GFH) and Khaleeji Commercial Bank (KHCB) today announced a joint sponsorship of US$200,000 for national racing icon, Mr. Hamad Al Fardan, during a press conference at the Bahrain International Circuit. GFH and KHCB simultaneously presented the branding for `Team GFH,’ the new team Mr. Al Fardan will be representing at the Toyota Racing Series in New Zealand from November 2006 – April 2007.
The Toyota Racing Series is the most high profile winter racing series and is a key motor sport event in New Zealand.  After two highly successful seasons, New Zealand’s premier single seater series is set to return nationwide this November, with drivers from around the world competing for first place. This will be Mr. Al Fardan’s second time competing in the series.
Significantly, the `Team GFH’ initiative and support to Mr. Fardan is aimed at
maximizing the winning potential of the national racing champion and also to draw  attention to the Kingdom of Bahrain as the emerging hub of motor sport in the Middle East.
The guests present at the announcement included Mr. Martin Whitaker – General Manager - Bahrain International Circuit, Hamad Al Fardan – Motor Racing Champion, local and international media representatives and senior management officials of GFH and KHCB.
Commenting on the sponsorship at a press conference, Mr. Ebrahim Hussain, General Manager of Khaleeji Commercial Bank said: “In a short span of time, Hamad Al Fardan has effectively put Bahrain on the global motor sporting map and has the potential to reach the Formula One league. Bahrain has the Middle East’s first F1 motor racing circuit and our support to Mr. Fardan will add value to the reputation of the Kingdom in the international motor sports arena.”
He also said that the Bahrain International Circuit is increasingly bringing international attention to the Kingdom of Bahrain apart from boosting the tourism industry.
“Mr. Fardan is already a role model in the Kingdom and beyond.  Gulf Finance House and KHCB are confident of his potential to be a winner at the winter series in New Zealand and we are proud to be associated with the national icon who has set a great example for young aspiring motorists and enthusiasts,” Mr. Hussain added.
Mr. Tariq Kanoo, Managing Director for Placement and Wealth Management of GFH commented: “Both GFH and KHCB have taken the lead in identifying and motivating talented nationals in various fields as it is a strategic part of our Corporate Social Responsibility programme. Mr. Fardan is an asset to the Kingdom of Bahrain and as Bahrain-based entities, it is our duty to promote and encourage him to represent our country successfully in international motor racing events.”