Yas Marina Circuit organized a Gala Dinner on Wednesday the 14 October, 2009 at the Emirates Palace, Al Etihad Ballroom for TAKATOF volunteers taking part in the inaugural Etihad Airways Grand Prix Formula 1 2009.

The Gala Dinner provided the opportunity for the volunteers to meet Yas Marina Circuit and Takatof representatives, who commended their participation in the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

The organizers also spoke of the importance of local Emirati involvement in upcoming Yas Marina Circuit projects as a way to gain valuable experience in hosting world class events.

The event began with a welcome address by Hamed Al Harthi, the media spokesperson for Yas Marina Circuit, followed by speeches from Richard Cregan, CEO of Yas Marina Circuit, Maytha Al Habsi, Director of TAKATOF, and H.E. Mohammed Al Junaibi from the Crown Prince’s Court.

Richard Cregan, the CEO of Yas Marina Circuit said: “We are delighted with the enthusiasm and commitment shown by the Takatof volunteers involved in the inaugural Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The volunteers play an integral role in the delivery of the biggest sporting event ever hosted in the UAE, and we hope they not only enjoy but benefit from the experience”.

The evening included a slideshow of the volunteer’s recruitment and training programs, a raffle, distribution of volunteer Manuals and corporate giveaways, as well as a promotional video of Yas Marina Circuit. The evening concluded with a photograph of all volunteers gathered underneath the dome of Emirates Palace.