MANAMA, Bahrain (AP) - Tens of thousands of anti-government
protesters have flooded a major highway in Bahrain on the first day
of the controverisal Formula One race in the Gulf kingdom.

Protesters are shouting slogans against the ruling Sunni
dynasty, which is the main backer of the Grand Prix race that was
canceled last year due to political unrest in the strategic island
nation that is home to the U.S. Navy's 5th Fleet.

Authorities in Bahrain have stepped up security around the
Formula One circuit after clashes between protesters and security
forces intensified ahead of Sunday's Grand Prix race. Teams were
practicing Friday.

The massive government-sanctioned rally was organized by the
Shiite political blocs.