ZOOMING IN ON THE SINGAPORE F1 GRAND PRIX
Put the pedal to the metal!
I think in more ways than one, the first ever night time F1 race in Singapore is the most exciting thing to happen in this region after the Olympics.
I am not an F1 fan before, but now I’m familiar with Kimi Raikkonen , Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso.
For those who don’t have the need for speed, like me, what makes this event different from other international gatherings held here? Well, not only does it raise Singapore’s profile as a premiere sports destination in Asia but it also shows a nation’s will to succeed against all odds.
A couple of years ago, who would have thought that F1 officials would even consider a race in and around the city and at night ? Wow.
I tell myself, this is something I got to see! It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity and it’s happening right here in my backyard, so no excuses! I’d scramble for a place near the Pit
( for a better glimpse of the cars and yes I admit, their drivers) or the Padang grandstand because the view there is unfettered and the stretch of road is long. Best of all, having my friends there with me makes the experience more memorable.
Of course, I can’t talk about F1 and not talk about all the biz buzz surrounding it. I’m in the news business and business news is my cup of tea. I can’t help but drink in the excitement that this event generates.The tourism dollars that such a prestigious event brings, the endorsement deals signed by the race car drivers, and the brand awareness for the carmakers. Even major international banks jumped on the bandwagon as they raced each other to sponsor the event. Hotels and restaurants also getting in on the action and marketing buffet lunches and dinners in time for the grand prix. As a journalist covering the business beat, it’s amazing to me to hear all the F1-linked client events organized by the investment banks.
Lest I forget, there’s also the extensive merchandising. There are special ones made just for the Singapore night race. I daresay, they’d be coveted collector’s items.
Grand Prix tickets are costly between S$500 and S$1000. But what it does to the Singapore brand? Priceless.
Business and economic prospects aside, this particular grand prix moves me because it makes me proud to be Asian. F1’s first-ever night time race tells the world that Asia’s time is here. That Singapore’s time is now. We’re revved up!
