Yahoo News 
Al Nabooda Racing’s Clemens Schmid on the pace in Bahrain GT3 practice
Al Nabooda Racing’s Clemens Schmid was on the pace in first free practice for the final two rounds of the Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East at Bahrain International Circuit on Friday evening.
- Skydive Dubai Falcons pair gunning for constructors’ silverware
- Nasser Al Attiyah among top draws at Sealine Cross Country Rally
- #Quiz360: WIN dinner for 2 at the Jumeira Rotana hotel in Dubai
The season finale is being held as part of a support race of the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix where Schmid is hoping to stave off the challenge from Kuwait’s Zain Ashkanani, who set the second fastest time ahead of third-placed Hasher Al Maktoum of the UAE.
Schmid set the fastest time at 2min 05.369sec, which was 0.701sec better than Ashkanani while Al Maktoum was further back 0.810sec off the leader’s pace.
Meanwhile, entering the final round Dubai-based Schmid enjoys a 12-point lead (240) over Kuwaiti defending champion Ashkanani in the drivers’ standings, with Saeed Al Mehairi of Skydive Dubai Falcons in third (177).
Schmid said: “Everything is on the limit this weekend. Pressure is increased to its maximum yet time to prepare on the track is reduced. That might make it difficult for some drivers but I’m used to this.
Championship leader Clemens Schmid set the pace in this wkd's only practice session. Qualifying tomorrow...#porsche pic.twitter.com/GeRu1EoAaG
— Porsche GT3 ME (@PorscheGT3CCME) April 17, 2015
“As a Porsche Supercup driver this is what I live with racing in Europe. I’m leading the championship and plan to stay ahead following the final round.”
And, speaking ahead of practice, manager of the series Walter Lechner said: “For drivers and fans of local motorsport this Porsche series has served up the ideal scenario.
“Ten years ago Porsche first supported the F1 in Bahrain. So it’s very special to now have the deciding final round of a dedicated Middle East championship witnessed by full grandstands as the world of motorsport looks on.
“This is when drivers will feel the pressure and whoever can handle that pressure best will be victorious. For some who embrace the opportunity it will be a dream scenario, sadly for others it could feel like a nightmare. But this is when the best standout. Whoever wins will deserve it.”
