Events & Festivals Singapore: 2010 Singtel Formula 1 Grand Prix

Have you ever felt the ground rumble beneath your feet? And no, I’m not talking about an earthquake.

The Singtel Formula 1 night race took place in the very heart of Singapore at the Marina Bay Street Circuit on 26th September 2010. Singapore is in its third year hosting the inaugural event and it has been an absolute success since it was brought to Singapore in 2008.

Many fans were treated to a fast and furious display of frenzied cars as the drivers raced around the only street circuit in Asia. At 6pm, bleachers and grandstands were filled as race fans who arrived late, scrambled to catch a glimpse of their favourite driver in the drivers’ parade. By 8pm, everyone at the Marina Bay Street Circuit was on their feet; and as the five red lights illuminated, the race was all set.

The race was filled with nothing but thrills and spills as championship contender Fernando Alonso had to keep checking his rear mirrors as worthy opponent Sebastian Vettel got off to a very quick start. The race also saw a collision with 2 of the five championship contenders, Mark Webber and Lewis Hamiltion.

Hamilton unfortunately, had to retire while Webber went on to finish the race in a much needed 3rd place. In the closing laps, Heikki Kovolainen’s race came to a dramatic end as his Lotus caught fire. Many found it amusing that the blonde Finnish had to put the fire out by himself. Finally, just under two hours,the chequered flag waved as Fernando Alonso crossed the line first with Red Bull Racing driver Sebastian Vettel, finishing second.

Besides the actual race, ticketholders were also treated to an array of international performers such as Daughtry, Mariah Carey and the infamous Adam Lambert.

So who says F1 isn’t for everyone?

Well, if you were spending your Sunday night rushing a deadline, I must say that you missed out on some great action. Fret not though! The race will be coming back to our sunny island next year and will take place from the 23rd to 25th of September.

The race weekend was filled with so many activities you wouldn’t want to miss out on. I was fortunate enough to swag myself an exclusive VIP pass to meet my favourite driver! And who knows come 2011?

Lady luck might just be on your side! So be sure to mark those calendars down and start those engines!