Dedicated to every Formula1 fan "Once something is a passion, the motivation is there" - Michael Schumacher
PROLOGUE
I started watching Formula 1 when I was 12 years old and ever since, I have always wanted to watch a race LIVE. 14 years later, after much thought, research and planning, this dream has become a reality. I am attending the
2016 FORMULA 1 SINGAPORE AIRLINES SINGAPORE GRAND PRIX held on the Marina Bay Street Circuit.
Image source: singaporegp.sg
Many people asked me why I didn't attend the Grand Prix held in India during its tenure or go for some other Grand Prix closer to India like China, Malaysia, Abu Dhabi or Bahrain. I'm sure most of you have the same doubt. Well, to be honest, these tracks and races that I have seen did not excite me as much as the Singapore GP races I have seen. Don't get me wrong, each track is unique in its own way and each Grand Prix has a lot to offer on and off the track. I'm sure quite a few of you would have attended the Indian GP and had a wonderful experience. Something about the whole concept of racing under the night sky and cars gleaming under the artificial lights got my heart hooked to the Singapore GP.
So it was decided: First GP = Singapore GP.
Earlier in March, the tickets for the race went on Sale. I bought mine in April and availed the early bird discount. I chose the
3-Day Pit Combination Package , that way, I get to experience different parts of the circuit on different days.
Friday: Padang Grandstand [ZONE4]
Saturday: Bay Grandstand [ZONE 3,4]
Sunday: Pit Grandstand [ZONE 1,2,3,4]
Image source: singaporegp.sg
Booking the tickets online was pretty simple and straightforward. After selecting what type of tickets, you will be asked to select a block in the grandstand. Unfortunately, you cannot choose a specific seat, it will be given to you automatically once the block has been selected. Later I found out this can be done via their Helpline number. Anyway, booked, paid and done. I was allotted a random seat in the selected block. Received the confirmation e-mail instantly. The wait begins.
In May, SCOOT commenced operations in India hurling several offers and discounts to gain market presence in India. This meant budget flights offered at a discount. Booked my Flight tickets in May for a very reasonable price. Much lower than what was offered by other Airlines.
For my Visa, I got it done through a travel agent. Very simple process and took only 3 days for me to get my Visa and passport back from the consulate. Special thanks to BHPian NPV for addressing my visa queries and giving me advice regarding the process on the Singapore Visa thread. Applied for my visa 2 weeks before my travel date. Received a 5-week visa.
After months of waiting, I got a call from FedEx. My tickets have arrived
First Impressions: WOW. Great looking set of tickets. Each card is made of hard plastic and each ticket comes with a lanyard (should have been glow in the dark ones, would look cool during the post race concerts). Very nice indeed. Each color denotes the ZONE access. On the reverse side, you will find the seat details. It comes with a terms and conditions guide in a waterproof zip bag.
If you are a music buff and like concerts, you are in luck. All race tickets give you access to attend the concerts held on the respective day. This year's main lineup includes:
Friday: Kylie Minogue
Saturday: Bastille and Queen + Adam Lambert
Sunday: Halsey and imagine Dragons
Other Performers: KC and The Sunshine Band, Pentatonix and Dynamo
Image source: singaporegp.sg
Now coming to F1; I'm an ardent fan of McLaren Honda. Yes, I supported them throughout 2015, one of their most dismal years. I am a huge Jenson Button fan as well. He has been and will continue to be a role model for many people. Loved watching him race for BAR Honda during his early years and his mega drive during the 2011 Canadian GP is my all-time favorite.
JB's announcement in Monza was well foreseen but hit me hard when it came from the horse's mouth :( . Very interesting approach by McLaren with their 'Three Driver Strategy' for the next two years. Stoffel looks very promising and Alonso is a two-time world champion. The McLaren driver line-up looks strong for next year, but it will not be the same without JB!
Image Source: mclaren.com
He insists it's not a retirement (My mind says it's his last season, heart says otherwise). Nevertheless, I am getting the opportunity to see him race LIVE!
Bring on Singapore!!