Doohan father and son to perform demo runs at Albert Park

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In a special event celebrating Australian motorsport royalty, Mick Doohan and his son Jack will take to the track at Melbourne's Albert Park circuit during next week’s Australian GP weekend.

This demonstration runs will mark a significant milestone: 30 years since Mick Doohan's first of five dominant 500cc motorcycle World Championship titles.

The Australian rider will take to the track saddling a modern production MotoGP Honda RCV213 while Alpine F1 reserve Jack Doohan will have a chance to sample a period 2000 Benetton B200 Formula 1 car.

The classic machine – once steered by Giancarlo Fisichella and Alexander Wurz – holds a special connection to the Alpine outfit as it was designed and built in the French team’s current F1 headquarters at Enstone in the UK.

Read also: Doohan doubles down as Alpine reserve role takes center stage

“I’m so excited to be on track with my Dad in Albert Park during the Australian Grand Prix weekend,” said Jack. “It’s actually the first time we have shared a track together with me in a car and him on a bike so that will be an incredibly special moment.

“It’s a great opportunity to celebrate his success in front of the Australian fans. And, for me, it’s a unique opportunity to drive a Formula 1 car around such an iconic track.

“Hopefully next year it will be the real thing! That’s my target and I’m working hard to achieving my ultimate dream.”

Jack’s father was grateful to the Australian GP organizers and to Formula 1 “for the amazing opportunity” to share the track with his son on the occasion of his special 30-year milestone.

“Any time I can jump on a bike at these types of events, it’s always a real pleasure,” added Mick.

“It marks 30 years since my first world title back in 1994. Time does go by so quickly, as now, I’m going to be on track with my son, which will be a truly special moment for both of us.

“I continue to support Jack and support his career endeavours working towards the goal of racing in Formula 1. We’re both very much excited to putting on a show in front of the home fans in Melbourne over the Grand Prix weekend at Albert Park.”

The Doohan Demonstration Laps will take place on Saturday March 23 at 0955 and 1515, and Sunday March 24 at 1335 local time.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.