Amazing Items to go Under the Hammer for Charity in Doha on November 4, 2006

As Qatar prepares to welcome celebrities from around the world for Reach Out To Asia’s (ROTA) 2nd Gala Dinner, speculation is growing about the record amount of funds likely to be raised at the accompanying charity auction - an event that promises to be a major feature of the evening’s programme.

Last year’s money-spinning auction, held at ROTA’s Inaugural Gala Dinner, raised a staggering US$10 million, following the sale of just a small number of exclusive lots.

This week’s charity dinner, taking place at The Ritz-Carlton Hotel on November 4, features an auction listing a cache of the world’s finest jewellery, cars, bikes and memorabilia.

All proceeds from the gala event, which will be attended by celebrities from the world of sport, show business, politics and Royalty, will go towards those in need in Asia. ROTA was founded by Qatar Foundation, a non-government organisation, together with Qatar Airways and the Doha Asian Games Organising Committee (DAGOC) to help the disadvantaged across the Asian continent.

Motor enthusiasts, in particular, should be delighted to see some amazing packages assembled, courtesy of some of the motor industry’s finest. All will go under the hammer at the very special auction.

From Qatar-based Al Fardan Group, an exclusive Reach Out To Asia Maserati Quattroporte Executive GT Sedan is on offer, plus First Class tickets for two to Italy, where the winning bidders will enjoy a tour of the Maserati factory, a drive on the test track, and dinner with Maserati President, Mr. Eugenio Alzati.

This truly unique vehicle, in a deep rich maroon finish with luxury cream leather interiors, is detailed with a subtle and stylish Reach Out To Asia signature from the factory.

A second, equally exciting day out is included in the same package. Donated by Ferrari Italy’s Director General, Jean Todt, the winning bidders will spend the day as guests of the Ferrari Formula One team and lunch with them at their Maranello headquarters. In addition, they will walk away with an overall from Formula One Ferrari Team driver, Felipe Massa and a replica Ferrari car.

Those preferring the thrill of only two wheels may want to hold their bids for the super fast Ducatti 999R Xerox ‘Superbike’ – a replica of that used by World Superbike Champion 2006, Troy Bayliss, with its tank autographed by the man himself. And, just to seal the deal, there will be an opportunity for the winning bidder to take a ride on the bike through Doha with Troy. Again, this lot is donated by the local Al Fardan Group.

Hollywood superstar Patrick Swayze, best known for his starring role in the romantic cult movie Dirty Dancing, is himself a lifelong motorcycle enthusiast. He will personalise another motorcycle by signing its fuel tank and donating one of his own signed leather Harley-Davidson bikers’ jackets to the highest bidder. Donated by Nasser bin Khaled & Sons, the jet black VRSCDX is a sleek, modern interpretation of the classic motorcycle from the legendary Harley-Davidson.

A terrific auction item in itself, Patrick has personally added to the package by providing the winning bidders with two First Class tickets to London to see him in his hit West End musical, “Guys ‘n Dolls” plus the chance to meet him backstage after the show.

Drag race enthusiasts are also catered for with a special package, which includes two First Class tickets to London, helicopter transfers to Santa Pod Raceway – the home of European drag racing and the chance to become possibly the fastest Gulf resident on four wheels behind the driving wheel of a 300 mph drag racer. Donated by Keith Bartlett, Chairman of Trakbak Racing and owner of Santa Pod Raceway, the VIP experience ends with seats at the drag racing stars’ Gala Awards Dinner and a chance to meet the drivers.

FIFA 2006 World Cup Final Match Football Up for Auction at Reach Out To Asia Charity Gala Dinner in Doha

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