As 2015 rolls in this week, I’m already preparing for this year’s edition of the Singapore Grand Prix!
Even if it’s nine months away, scheduled for September 18-20, I’m arranging my calendar around the night race!
I’m always excited about Singapore because it offers so much more than just fast cars. I have friends who fly in specifically for the concerts that are offered on different nights of the race, and sometimes even simultaneously in multiple venues.
Last year, they had Jennifer Lopez, Robbie Williams, Mayday, John Legend, Pet Shop Boys, and Ziggy Marley. The previous year, they featured Rihanna, The Killers, Bigbang, Justin Bieber, Tom Jones, Owl City, and Bob Geldof. 2012 had Katy Perry, Maroon 5, Jay Chou, The Pretenders, Bananarama, and The Proclaimers. Other big-name artists who have graced the GP scene were Shakira, Linkin Park, Boy George, our very own Charice, Rick Astley, Mariah Carey, Chris Daughtry, Sean Kingston, the Backstreet Boys, and Chaka Khan!
That’s a who’s who in the music industry! And who will they parade for this year!? That’s certainly one of the most awaited announcements for assorted race fans and music lovers.
Last year, motorsports diehards were also treated to more racing action before the Formula One cars took centerstage as the Porsche Carrera Cup Asia returned to the Marina Bay Street Circuit with the all-new 460 horsepower Porsche 911 GT3 Cup (Type 991) racing cars.
Of course, there’s the F1 race itself! Though the dip in excitement over the roaring engines was extensively discussed throughout the year, being at the racetrack still brings that vibe that you can’t seem to get anywhere else. Yes, I would want to hear them louder this year, but that’s out of my hands.
With drivers changing teams during the off-season, there is also renewed interest in how the teams will perform come race time.
Will Lewis Hamilton lord it over his rivals, and fend off another strong challenge from teammate and once good friend Nico Rosberg? Will Sebastian Vettel thrive in a different team? Will Daniel Ricciardo shine now that he is the focal point of Red Bull?
There are also a lot of activities that include the drivers all over town, from fundraising events, to just regular meet-and-greets. In 2014, we had the opportunity to meet racing great David Coulthard. What surprises does this year have in store?
The night race has a different feel altogether, compared to other races because people are automatically in a party mode when the sun sets, and the combination of delectable food and glitzy night spots in the Lion City only adds to the festive atmosphere that the GP race brings.
And that is why I always recommend to friends to make the Singapore Grand Prix a must in their yearly calendar.
For those interested in making the trip, you can get assistance from my friends at Red Rock Travel — redrocktravel.net, call them at 09178267531, or email redrockf1@yahoo.com and mind you, that’s for all the GP events!
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