ssc_marcomms posted on September 01, 2009 09:00
As the F1 drivers gear up to take to the streets in the world’s only Formula 1 night race in Singapore, preparations to host the 2009 FORMULA 1 SINGTEL SINGAPORE GRAND PRIX are shifting into full gear on our shores..
This year’s race will also see some 900 enthusiasts volunteering their time, expertise and experience. Despite the tough training programme, these F1 aficionados are ecstatic about being a part of this mega-car, mega-lifestyle event. In fact, many of them had also contributed to last year’s GRAND PRIX.
Mr Kenneth Choa, an ardent motorsports fan and a two-time SINGAPORE GRAND PRIX volunteer, enthused about his “close encounter” with these engineering works of art: “It was really an incredible experience watching these magnificent cars zoom past a mere 30 metres away… the fast and precise way they take to each corner and the roar of the engines...these splendid machines literally took my breath away.”
A recovery specialist, Kenneth needs to ensure that the racetrack remains free of incidents during the practice, qualifying and race days to allow for a smooth race. A comprehensive and intensive training programme, both theoretical and practical, has been put together to arm volunteers with the know-how to better perform their duties.
Also known as Race Officials, these volunteers will first undergo compulsory training called the BTT (Basic Trackside Training), Flag, Track and Observer Training. Upon completion of training, the Race Officials will then be allocated specialised roles, such as recovery, pit and grid marshalling, whereby more in-depth training in each area will be provided.
Unlike the previous year during which training was done by the Confederation of Australian Motor Sport (CAMS), the Singapore Sports Council (SSC) has this year taken on the task to train the volunteers instead. CAMS continues to contribute by providing consultancy advice.
Be it the SSC or CAMS, appropriate and adequate training remains the top priority. This was clearly seen in the successful conclusion of the Recovery Training at the National Stadium Carpark C over last weekend (29 – 30 August 2009). The training was well attended by some 200 volunteers and also saw Mr S Iswaran, Senior Minister of State, Ministry of Trade and Industry, and Ministry of Education, making a special appearance.