Those having pit walk wristbands can witness up-close the activities conducted by the mechanical team and riders before the race. This opportunity was obviously rare, as not all spectators can avail it.
At 11:05 a.m. local time, spectators having the pit walk wristbands were welcome to enter the pit lane, accompanied by officers. What makes the pit walk in the 2022 WSBK special was that some of the officers wore local traditional attire.
Mandalika Grand Prix Association (MGPA) President Director Priandhi Satria stated that the officers wearing traditional clothing is a breakthrough in introducing local culture to the international world.
"I think this is special in Mandalika. The pit walk (participants), were escorted by several officers wearing traditional clothing. The response from spectators, riders, and crew was amazing," Satria remarked.
Spectators joining the pit walk must follow some regulations, such as not posing a hindrance to the mechanical team or riders preparing for the race.
However, in front of the pits, each team turned out to have prepared some merchandise, such as posters and stickers. Many pit walk participants were also able to get autographs of some of the riders.
One of the pits that was quite crowded with spectators was the Aruba.it Racing – Ducati team where 2022 world champion Alvaro Bautista is contracted to.
In addition, several spectators clicked selfies next to the starting line despite it being bordered by a fence.
After 30 minutes, the officer escorted the spectators to exit the pit lane.
"While there is an opportunity, we must maximize it. When else can it be like this (pit walk)," Muhammad Zulfikar, a spectator from Jakarta, remarked.
The WSBK is being held on November 11-13, 2022.
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Translator: Bayu K, Kenzu
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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