Singapore Grand Prix: More than just a race

Towards the end of September, the atmosphere in Singapore shifts into something noticeably different. People are more festive, with numerous events peppering the main business districts and side streets. Tourist destinations are frequented by buses and coasters, ferrying all shapes and sizes of sightseers and vacationers. The “pop” of flash bulbs is a commonplace sound, and camera shutters in Singapore open and close more than ever throughout this time of the year. And I assume that sales of Singapore’s famous chicken rice skyrocket during these days as well.

The last week of September marked the Singtel Singapore Grand Prix, or Grand Prix Singapore Season (GPSS) as it has been dubbed this year. This particular leg in the F1 calendar has been referred to as “the jewel in the F1 crown” by none other than Bernie Ecclestone, president and CEO of Formula One Management and Formula One Administration, and there is every reason for him to do so. The race is unlike any of the other F1 events and the city-state of Singapore transforms itself into a lifestyle hub worthy of hosting such an occasion.

The only F1 street race held at night, the Singapore Grand Prix is truly unique. Each lap is 5.073 kilometers of pure action, with the car engines screaming down every straightaway, going at top speeds of over 300 kph. Illuminated by high-watt floodlights, every inch of the course is

Fernando Alonso, winner of the 2010 Singtel Singapore GP celebrates by splashing champagne on second placer Sebastian Vettel.

designed to give drivers a technical challenge. Likewise, the track layout is also geared towards satisfying the speed buzz of Formula One race fans. This isn’t a course for the faint of heart, and over the two years that it has been a part of the F1 schedule, it has seen its fair share of thrills and spills.

What I like about how the Singapore Grand Prix is laid out is the way it incorporates some of the country’s more iconic structures into the race. Passing by the Esplanade, the Singapore Flyer, City Hall, the Anderson Bridge (which is nearly 100 years old) and other heritage landmarks, the Singapore GP is able to include its history in the contemporary world of modern motorsports. For this, I salute Singapore for successfully branding itself with an event that is truly able to showcase its past while catapulting the nation-state into the modern world.

But race fans aren’t the only ones who get a fix during this time of year in Singapore. What’s great about the GPSS is that there is something for everyone, even if you aren’t a “gear head.” Music lovers enjoyed the tunes of Chris Daughtry, Adam Lambert, Missy Elliot and Mariah Carey. So even though ears felt really busted up after the high-decibel engine screaming during the race, race pass holders were treated to some top-notch musical acts, only a few steps from the race grandstands.

The off-track options were numerous as well, with different sectors taking advantage of the Formula One fever. Orchard Road, known for its shopping options, was home to the GPSS Soundpark — an “experience park” that immerses the audience in a 15-meter soundscape featuring the biggest DJ console in the country. It allows interactive participation through a scratch pad accessible to the audience.

Clubs and lounges such as Zouk!, The Podium Lounge, St. James, and Butter Factory were venues for parties and fashion shows, in which GPSS pass holders received special access.

The art scene also saw some action during the GPSS with Digital Nights 2010 at the Singapore Art Museum (SAM.) This was the country’s first digital arts festival featuring artworks that are interactive through a combination of sound, light and digital images. The exhibit had 11 installations, including a virtual fashion show, computerized creations and LED light works.

But it’s not only during GPSS that Singapore is able to deliver. What makes Singapore a fun place in general is that it’s a gathering place for friends and family, where lifestyle options and offerings abound. Whether it’s the children enjoying a day at Universal Studios, parents having a night at the theater at the Marina Bay Sands complex, the younger set partying at Zouk! Or Clarke Quay, or petrol-heads enjoying the thrill of the race, there’s definitely something fun for everyone.

Now in its third year, the Singapore GP has truly delivered, and I can’t wait to see how they plan to outdo themselves next year.

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E-mail me at elsubido@gmail.com” enricomiguelsubido@gmail.com.