Motor Sports Association proposes street circuit race in Singapore
The Singapore Motor Sports Association has said it is keen on setting up a street circuit race in Singapore, much like the Upper Thomson Road circuit of the 1960s and 70s.
It is working on a draft proposal to be submitted to the authorities by the end of the year.
Mr Ringo Chong's recent participation in the Porsche Carrera Cup Asia was a turn in the right direction.
But with all the races held overseas, Singaporeans are deprived of the real action.
Karting or carpark rallies, the only form of motor racing in Singapore, are not quite high octane enough.
Mr William Lyou, President of Singapore Motor Sports Association, said: "This is the famous Thomson circuit where we use to race in the late 60s. We had about 100,000 people come here every year during Easter to watch this event."
He said safety standards were much higher now, reducing the chances of accidents.
Known as the "Mini King", Mr Lyou was a regular at the five-kilometre winding track.
He is now hoping to revive the good old days, by submitting a proposal for a street circuit, much like those in Macau and Monaco.
Experts say this is the most cost effective option for Singapore.
Mr Ian Geekie, General Manager of Carrera Cup Asia, said: "My personal view is that Singapore would be an ideal place to have a street circuit and I am sure it would generate enormous interest, but this is something the government have to approve."
Marina South has been touted as the ideal location for a street circuit.
All it needs is some widening of existing roads, cutting down a few trees, taking out some lamp posts and putting in safety barriers for crowd protection.
Another plus point is the tourist dollar that it will attract.
Malaysia's Formula-One race brought in an estimated US$144 million in its debut year.
And if the turnout at the recent F1 powerboat race is anything to go by, Singaporeans do love action sports. - CNA