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Dubai: A top official from the Singapore Tourism Board is hoping to cash in on his country's appetite for top-class events while staging a successful Formula One race next month.
"We want to cash in on Singapore's capacity to stage some of the best events in the world," stated Jason Ong, Area Director, Middle East and Africa, Singapore Tourism Board.
Ong was interacting with media to announce the staging of the SingTel Singapore Grand Prix from September 26-28.
Singapore walked into F1 history books after getting the green signal to stage the first ever race under floodlights. This is also the first time that a F1 round will be held on a street circuit in Asia.
"We have brought in more than 1500 light projectors for the race, and testing has already been carried out," Ong revealed.
Among other selling points is the fact that the race circuit will be hugging some of the most notable landmarks in the heart of the city. "By 2015, we want to attract 17 million visitors to Singapore," Ong promised.
Race organisers Singapore GP have announced that more than 95 per cent of the tickets have already been sold, mostly to people from outside the country. "Having a night race is going to be unique in the history of F1 racing and people would want tobe part of it," Ong stated.
Besides the F1 race, organisers have put together a three-week package - the 'Singapore GP Season' - running from September 20-October 5.
Three-week action
"The three weeks will be anchored by more than 10 lifestyle events including the Singapore River Festival, the Opera Gallery Master's Formula, the Amber Lounge Party and the Bulgari Watch Exhibition," Ong stated.
"Singapore is entering an exciting phase in its tourism development and the Formula One race will add to our growing reputation as a world-class destination, offering some of the most unique and cutting edge experiences," Ong added.
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