SimplyAbuDhabi XV

5 6 S I M P LY A B U DH A B I Leon Price, the Man Behind the Dragon Dragon Racing International was set up by its chairman, Leon Price, who is also the deputy chairman of successful steel conglomerate Macsteel International Holdings. A passionate gentleman racer since 2008 when he began competing in races around the world, Price already has more than 40 podium finishes to his name. His pragmatic, astute approach to business and life propelled his career in the tough business of commodities trading - in his case, steel - to the pinnacle of the industry at the helm of Macsteel. Intrepid and with a thirst for adventure, Price moved in the early stages of his career from his country of birth, South Africa, to the Far East, spending a large portion of his life in Hong Kong. It is the same seemingly endless stamina and drive that Price has applied to his latest venture: Dragon Racing International. Fuelled by his passion for racing and his talent for creating winning teams, whether in the boardroom or beyond, the charismatic tycoon recruited a team of international racing professionals at the height of their respective careers and equally passionate about racing, to create Dragon Racing. Enjoying continued success on the race circuits around the world, the thrill and excitement of motor racing was extended with the launch this year of Dragon Racing’s pro-track experiences. Price is also a man with an appreciation for art and culture. His life, immersed in Chinese culture for so many years, has fuelled his passion for dragons – a subject on which his knowledge borders on encyclopaedic – and the source of his racing team’s name. The number 88 – used in Dragon Racing’s social media and website presence - is considered to be the luckiest number in Chinese numerology, symbolising and fortune and good luck. The exceptional attention to detail beyond the thrill of racing that Dragon Racing offers has been informed by Price’s own tastes and experiences around the world. This means gourmet food provided by top chefs, the most luxurious modes of transport, and access to the finer things in life are all integral elements of the Dragon Racing offering. “Convenience is key, and Dragon Racing ensures ease before and after the excitement of the track. So, whether it’s tickets to a headline concert in Abu Dhabi, a specialist guide or a discreet security service, the Dragon Racing team is there to assist,” says Price.