BMW Z4: A Good Drive Makes The Difference

Sometimes, people wonder why others are willing to pay a premium for cars. Let’s not talk about the Lamborghini and Ferrari supercars; people will just say those are used for showing off. But for example, why would you pay more for a continental car when you can pay less for a Japanese car of the same capacity?

It’s not wrong to say that, but I guess it boils down to something very simple – Functionality vs. Driveability. In essence, the difference lies in how you get there. Some just want a basic car that will get them from point A to point B, so it doesn’t matter if the car is turbocharged or all-wheel drive. But others, who like driving and want to enjoy the journey from point A to point B, would prefer to do it in a good car, hence are willing to pay more.

The BMW Z4 is one example of a car that really makes the difference in the drive. Launched in Singapore sometime in May, two versions of the German roadster was unveiled – the 2.5-litre sDrive23i and the range-topper 3-litre sDrive35i.

Although I waited four months before finally getting a test drive, the wait was a well-deserved one. I was looking forward to trying the Z4, as I usually do for all BMW test drives. But the latest Z4 was exceptional and it exceeded my initial high expectations of it.

Given the sDrive35i Z4 overnight, I sacrificed my sleep for that night just so I could spend more time with the car. This isn’t something that I often do for test drives, because I value my already-deprived sleeping time a lot.

Sitting under the hood of this Z4 is the twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six engine, same as the ones found in the 335i sedan and coupe. Producing a maximum output of 306bhp, the Z4 dashes to 100km/h from rest in 5.1 seconds via BMW’s latest seven-speed DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission). Standard only on the sDrive35i model, the DCT is similar to Volkswagen’s DSG (Direct Shift Gearbox). The DCT was amazing; it shifts so smoothly and quickly, accompanied by fierce growls from the engine.

One issue I always had with BMWs is the heavy steering. But the steering in the Z4 was different; it was lighter but just as firm. Of course, when you switch to Sport mode, the steering stiffens up along with the suspension. Along with the M-adaptive sport suspension – 10mm lower than usual – on this car, the Z4 was a beauty everywhere – on roads, in corners, on highways – and there was minimal body roll from the rear-wheel drive roadster.

First-time drivers of the Z4 might need some time to adjust to the car because of its ultra-low seating position and long nose. But it wouldn’t take too long to get used to it and visibility is not that bad.

It is true that a good drive really makes the difference. Despite the long day at work and the fatigued body desiring for sleep, I just couldn’t resist the Z4 and drove the night away. Traffic jams and road delays often irritate the hell out of me but in the Z4, I felt only the slightest of annoyance. Amazing. 

BMW Z4 sDrive35i (A)
Engine: 2,979cc 24V twin-turbocharged inline six
Transmission: 7-speed semi-automatic
Max Power: 306bhp at 5,800rpm
Max Torque: 400Nm at 1,300-5,000rpm
Top Speed: 250km/h
0 – 100km/h: 5.1 seconds
Price: $245,800 with COE
Distributor: Performance Motors

 

Touched By A Champion

The New Paper
Va-Va-Vroom
11 November 2009

HE USED to be a fan of the Scuderia Ferrari team and its driver Kimi Raikkonen.

But 11-year-old Daim Hishammudin has since changed his mind after memorable personal encounters with McLaren’s Lewis Hamilton this year.

Seeing the former world champion a second and third time was more than just a slice of heaven as the 24-year-old Englishman recognised him and dedicated some of his time to the Singapore-born, Malaysia-based youth kart racer when he was back in Singapore with his family to catch the SingTel Singapore Grand Prix.

The family spent about $3,500 on 10 Bay Grandstand tickets.

Last year, Daim was also in Singapore for the inaugural Formula One night race.

He was one of the Singapore motorsports enthusiasts whom Nescafe invited to an exclusive meet-and-greet session with Hamilton.

‘I think I caught Lewis’ attention then because I was the youngest of the lot. I got Lewis to autograph my helmet! This year, there wasn’t such an event but I got lucky,’ said the 2009 Rotax Max Challenge Asia champion (MicroMax class).

‘We bumped into Lewis in a public place and he recognised me instantly. He asked about my progress in kart racing and I told him about my recent win.’

Hamilton then spent considerable time with Daim as he shared tips about karting with him.

‘Lewis was encouraging me to push hard and to keep striving in every race,’ said a thrilled Daim.

Hamilton started karting at the age of eight and approached then McLaren team boss Ron Dennis when he was 10.

At 13, he became the youngest ever driver to secure a deal with the option of an F1 seat when he was signed up for McLaren’s Young Driver Development Programme in 1998.

Today, he holds the record of being the youngest ever world champion in F1, having claimed the honour last year.

After winning the race, Daim bumped into Hamilton again and this time, got the chance to stay close to the Englishman as photographers swarmed round the night-race winner.

Whilst Daim was in Hamilton’s company, both his sisters – 13-year-old Dhaniyah and 10-year-old Dorrah – got the chance to meet Hamilton’s Pussycat Doll girlfriend Nicole Scherzinger.

‘Hamilton held Daim close to him throughout the media frenzy. We followed him too but it was Nicole who kept us entertained throughout,’ said Dorrah.

Disappointment

This season has been a major disappointment for Hamilton as he struggled with McLaren’s inconsistent MP4-24.

‘I saw how Lewis tried his best and pushed himself hard despite having such a car. I could relate to that as my kart faced technical issues at the last two races of the Rotax Max season, at the most crucial of times when I was fighting for the championship title,’ said Daim who had bought and read Hamilton’s biography prior to this trip.

‘I was very touched that Lewis remembered who I am and asked about my progress in karting upon meeting me. Being who he is, he must meet thousands of people so I feel very special indeed.

‘My dream is to become an F1 driver and next year I might get some training in Europe. Lewis is very impressive and highly-skilled to be able to become an F1 driver at such a young age. One day, I want to be just like him.’

The writer is a freelancer.

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Challenging times

THREE months ago, Daim Hishammudin was crowned the 2009 Rotax Max Challenge Asia champion (MicroMax class).

This championship title however, did not come easy at all.

‘The year has been full of challenges. I was down with deep-vein thrombosis (DVT) in July and had to be hospitalised for two weeks,’ recalled the Yahama SL Cup 2008 Cadet Champion.

‘I stayed in bed all day and was given two jabs a day for six weeks. After I was discharged, my mummy administered the jabs to me every day.’

Daim was leading the Rotax Max Challenge Asia series and had to quickly regain his strength and fitness after this bout of DVT so he could return to racing and maintain his lead.

Adding on to his problems was a new technical crew that he had to get used to.

Just eight points ahead of his closest rival, Indonesian Rafif Rabani, Daim had to finish no lower than 10th position at the final of the 2009 Rotax Max Challenge Asia to clinch the overall title.

After a rainy practice session, technical issues with his kart and a less-than-ideal sixth place in qualifying, an intensely-stressful race concluded with Daim in 10th place, narrowly edging out his nearest contenders to top the MicroMax class and emerge champion.

‘I was recovering from DVT and my kart wasn’t consistent, hence I struggled in the closing races. But everything has worked out well in the end and 2009 has been a great season.’

This year, Daim raced for professional Malaysian motorsports outfit BHPetrol.Iru1 all five rounds of the Rotax Max Challenge Malaysia, all four rounds of the Rotax Max Challenge Asia, round four of AAM KKS Malaysian Karting Championship and the last round of the Yamaha SL Cup.

His last race for the year will be the Rotax International Race on 22 Nov at the Sepang Go-Kart Circuit.

Transfer

The New Paper understands that Daim will be transferring to another team for the 2010 season.

‘Daim was approached by two teams at the end of the Rotax Max season. Together with his manager, we assessed the situation thoroughly, bearing in mind at all times that Daim must feel comfortable with any decision made.

‘We have decided to take up one of the team’s offers. Talks are now in the final stages and we should have confirmation before the end of this month,’ said Hishammudin Hasan, 39, father of Daim.

CHERYL TAY
___________________________________________________________________________________________

This story was first published in The New Paper.

Click here for pdf of the article: TNP, Touched By A Champion, 11 Nov ‘09

 

Interview with Blogger Cheryl Tay

“Not one to hanker after the latest handbag from Chanel or the newest lipstick colour from Bobbi Brown, Cheryl Tay instead spends her time checking out the hottest cars and keeping up with motorsports like Formula 1. The best way to express this automotive passion of hers is through words, as seen on www.cheryltay.wordpress.com. Said to ‘have fuel in her blood’ and ‘a mind full of nothing but cars and motorsports’, Cheryl hopes to share this passion with more like-minded people.”

Would you please tell us something about you and your site?
My site is actually primarily a blog that features some of my published writings. I use it to share with readers what I’ve written about and I hope to generate more interest in cars and motorsports amongst my readers.

Do you feel that you continue to grow in your writing the longer you write? Why is that important to you?
Yes, the more I write, the more I discover about myself. Sometimes I think I can even express myself better through writing, instead of speaking. I’ve been writing in a diary since I was 7 so writing has been quite a significant part of my life. It is important that I continue to progress and grow in my writing.

I’m wondering what some of your memorable experiences are with blogging?
The most memorable experiences would be of readers leaving positive comments and their encouragement. It makes me feel good to know that people are responding to my entries and that it benefits them in some way or another.

What do you do in order to keep up your communication with other bloggers?
Some of my friends who blog regularly have me as a link on their site to my blog.

If you had to describe life as a blogger in a Twitter message (140 characters) what would you say?
Life as a blogger is using the power of words to reach out to a massive audience.

What do you think is the most exciting or most innovative use of technology in politics right now?
Blogs these days have been strongly associated with politics. For example, former US presidential candidate Howard Dean used blogs to rally supporters.

Do you think that these new technologies are effective in making people more responsive?
Yes definitely. Social media like Facebook, YouTube and Twitter tend to develop a community of people who will return regularly and hence create a following. These new technologies make it easier and faster for netizens to make their views known and along with this increase in responsiveness come the power to make a person rise or fall very quickly.

What do you think sets your site apart from others?
My site is primarily a personal blog that reports mostly on motorsports and automotive stuff, which only cater to a select group of enthusiasts. It’s different from other sites in the sense that the content published on my blog (in terms of my published writings) is unique to this group.

If you could choose one characteristic you have that brought you success in life, what would it be?
My workaholic nature fuelled strongly by passion – I’ve learnt that it is important to love what you do and do what you love. Because once you achieve that, you will find that life is very meaningful.

What was the happiest and gloomiest moment of your life?
Each time my byline is published in print is a happy moment for me. The gloomiest would be when I lost my maternal grandmother three years ago.

If you could pick a travel destination, anywhere in the world, with no worries about how it’s paid for – what would your top 3 choices be?
My top three choices will be Moscow, the Maldives and Santa Claus Island in the North Pole.

What is your favourite book and why?
I don’t particularly have any favourite book, but some of my all-time favourite reads are “The Tao of Pooh” and “The Te of Piglet” by Benjamin Hoff, “Tuesdays with Morrie” by Mitch Albom, “Magic Faraway Tree” by Enid Blyton, “Matilda” and “The Twits” by Roald Dahl.

What’s the first thing you notice about a person (whether you know them or not)?
Their body language.

Is there anyone from your past that once told you you couldn’t write?
Yes. In fact, I used to fail my General Paper (GCE AO level) compositions during my junior college days and I had to go back for remedial classes! To be honest, I never expected to engage in published writing (ie. Be paid to write).

How bloggers can benefit from blogs financially?
I’m not benefiting financially from my blog, just in case you are wondering. But I think blogs potentially have that money-making aspect to it, simply because of the traffic it draws. An interesting blog that attracts lots of readers will mean having good advertising space as these people will keep returning to read the blog.

Is it true that who has a successful blog has an awful lot of time on their hands?
Not necessarily. A successful blog would be one that can consistently increase its readership (for the right reasons of course), which means having valid content that is of use and of interest to readers. Making money out of it is a bonus as a blog is primarily a platform to express one’s thoughts and happenings in life. However, a considerable amount of time and commitment is needed to maintain the blog, ie. Constantly post new entries and photos.

What role can bloggers of the world play to make this world more friendlier and less hostile?
One of the greatest things about the Worldwide Web is its ability to transcend geographical barriers and connect people from all over the world instantly. Bloggers of the world can make this world friendlier and less hostile by creating genuine friendships and overcoming all differences.

Who are your top five favourite bloggers?
(in no particular order)
· http://www.jamesallenonf1.com
· http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/sporteditors
· http://girlwithaonetrackmind.blogspot.com
· http://www.mrbrown.com
· http://www.chubbyhubby.net/blog

Is there one observation or column or post that has gotten the most powerful reaction from people?
There have been posts where some readers leave negative comments and remarks. I feel sad when I come across such things because it means that I wasn’t able to reach out to these readers through my writing. Some of them misunderstood the context of my story and took actual offence, leaving me feeling miserable, but I guess you can’t please everybody right?

What is your perception about Pakistan and its people?
I believe Pakistan is a country of modest and sensible people. I don’t know of any Pakistanis personally, but I would like to think that the people of Pakistan do not want their country to be as such. I would like to think that the people of Pakistan are just like anyone of us, wishing for peace, harmony and tranquillity.

Have you ever become stunned by the uniqueness of any blogger?
I must say that I have been surprised at the boldness of some bloggers. I think the beauty of blogs is how you can choose to remain anonymous yet create an identity for yourself. But of course, one has to work hard at remaining anonymous because the curiosity of some people will stop at nothing to reveal that identity.

What is the most striking difference between a developed country and a developing country?
The most striking difference is the level of affluence. A developed country is typically defined as one with a high per capita income and has technological advancements and good infrastructure in place. Healthcare, education and other basic needs of the citizens are fulfilled too. On the other hand, a developing country is typically defined as one with low per capita income and is still in the process of achieving that of a developed country.

What is the future of blogging?
The growth rate of blogs has been very impressive. Blogs are essentially online diaries, but have since evolved into a method of sharing ideas and disseminating information fast. Blogs have become a marketing strategy for companies and bloggers are making money from just posting up their thoughts.

I would also like to think that blogs can never replace traditional media but instead support and substantiate traditional media. Most people still prefer to pick up the papers to read. But blogs will continue to be popular as we see many sites start to incorporate blogging features and all. I think blogs will continue to evolve and the future for blogging is huge.

You have also got a blogging life, how has it directly affected both your personal and professional life?
It doesn’t affect my personal or professional life, it instead complements.

What are your future plans?
I hope to develop my blog further – instead of just putting up my published writings, I have started to put up press releases and news updates. My aim is to create a one-stop comprehensive and informative website about cars and motorsports where readers can just come and visit for the latest news. I also want to start incorporating videos too. On a separate note, I hope to be able to publish a book to my name one day.

Any Message you want to give to the readers of The Pakistani Spectator?
The pen is always mightier than the sword.

This article can be found at http://www.pakspectator.com/interview-with-blogger-cheryl-tay/.

 

Hot Babes, Hot Wheels

The New Paper
Va-Va-Vroom
14 October 2009

CAR SHOW girls donning sexy race queen outfits are a must at any car show.

At the race track where a race queen originally belongs, she has to work under the sun as her main role is to ensure that the drivers of the team she is representing are sheltered at all times.

But we all know that the real reason for having race queens is their ability to pull crowds.

Never failing to be a main attraction, car show girls must be able to endure extended hours in their micro minis and knee-high boots, pose well with cars and put on a smile at all times.

Encountering lecherous photographers and over-eager fans are some of the drawbacks of the job, but perks like travelling out of their country for shows make up for it.

Said Eva Liu of Shanghai who was at the recent Asia AutoSalon 2009 as a car show girl for Chinese car brand Geely: ‘This is my first time in Singapore, although this isn’t my first time working for a car show. It is tough as I have to look good at all times as you never know when or where there is a camera, but I enjoy the attention.’

Despite being more of a trade event, automotive exhibition Asia AutoSalon 2009 had more than 40 car show girls over the four-day event two weekends ago.

Hailing from countries such as Japan, Australia, Thailand and China, most of the girls were hired and brought in by the regional manufacturers themselves.

Hence, these girls had a larger sense of responsibility as they were also ambassadors to the brand they represented.

For Japanese race queens Minami and Nozomi from APP, they had their work cut out for them as they accompanied professional D1GP drift driver Tsutomu Fujio around and sheltered him whenever he was out in the open.

These girls were even part of Fujio-san’s drift demonstration as he performed figure-of-eights and donuts around them.

Not cheap

Of course, these girls don’t come cheap.

The 1.75-metre tall Chinese models Eva Liu and Annie Chang from Geely were paid a four-figure sum for each day of the four-day event.

This excludes flights, meals and accommodation.

Kevin Kwee, executive director of Exklusiv Group which owns the distribution rights for Geely in Singapore, was responsible for hiring the models.

He said: ‘We had a strict selection process where I held castings over three days in China to screen about 30 girls before finally deciding on these two.

‘Both of them are top models in their regions, hence I was willing to pay a premium for their services. You get what you pay for.’

This story was first published in The New Paper.

 

Fast and Curious

The New Paper
Va-Va-Vroom
14 October 2009

THIS car show is much more than a flesh parade of sexy race queens.

The inaugural Asia AutoSalon – a four-day automotive trade and exhibition event at Singapore Expo over the weekend – is indicative of how Singapore’s motorsport industry has progressed in recent years.

With the hosting of the inaugural Formula One night race last year – the SingTel Singapore Grand Prix – and the upcoming Changi Motorsports Hub, the interest in the local automotive market has heightened over the last two years.

Instead of local distributors or agents, the Asia AutoSalon featured more than 70 regional factories and manufacturers from major markets in Asia-Pacific such as Australia, Japan, Taiwan, China and Malaysia.

The exhibition, which cost about $1 million to organise, attracted about 78,000 visitors, who were treated to competitive factory prices and first-hand expertise of imported car tuning products and services.

‘Asia AutoSalon provides opportunities for overseas race drivers or teams to promote their branding to the region,’ Koh Aik Leong, the managing director of MPT Motor Trading – the organisers of Asia AutoSalon – told The New Paper.

‘Also, the direct presence of manufacturers in Singapore opens up the possibility of potential sponsorships for our local motorsport industry.

‘We chose Singapore as the venue because it is geographically well-located in the Asia-Pacific region and hence serves as a one-stop platform for businesses to gain access to other parts of the region.

‘As more people become interested in car tuning, local businesses will benefit. This is where Asia AutoSalon can help by establishing a local presence from overseas manufacturers directly.’

Some of these manufacturers have identified Singapore as a key market for international expansion.

Liberty Walk Co. Ltd is one of them.

The Japanese company, which specialises in Lamborghini parts and accessories under its house brand LB Performance, is keen to set up branch offices in Singapore instead of appointing a local representative.

Excellent place

‘We specialise in Lamborghini parts and accessories under our house brand LB Performance,’ said Naoyasu Kato, president of Liberty Walk.

‘I participated in Asia AutoSalon because Singapore is an excellent place to create awareness for my LB Performance brand,’ Naoyasu Kato, president of Liberty Walk, told The New Paper.

‘I can promote my products to not just one country, but also many countries across the region.’

The first-time participation of the regional manufacturers shows their confidence in the potential of the motorsport industry in Singapore.

Desmond Soh, director of local garage ST Powered Pte Ltd, feels that events such as Asia AutoSalon, which will return in 2011, will complement the Changi Motorsports Hub when it opens in the same year.

‘When the Changi Motorsports Hub opens in 2011, workshops like mine can take our cars there to test instead of going all the way to Malaysia,’ said Soh.

‘I believe this convenience will attract a lot more auto-tuning enthusiasts so events such as Asia AutoSalon are essential.’

Besides the exhibition, the organisers also entertained the crowds by inviting professional drift drivers from Japan, Australia and Malaysia, as well as a group of local drift drivers from local drift forum Drift Garage, to give daily drifting demonstrations.

Oh yes, there were race queens hailing from Japan and China too, who staged performances for the crowds.

Overall, the inaugural Asia AutoSalon was a huge hit with local motoring fans, who posted glowing reviews on Internet forums.

One fan said: ‘Went down with my friends today, it is a good show! Lots of discounts and booths from Chinese and Taiwanese brands.

‘I thought the drifters were good as well, much more entertaining than usual.’

Bernie Leung, a 23-year-old undergraduate, is looking forward to the next Asia AutoSalon in two years’ time.

He said: ‘The prices of the products were about 30 per cent cheaper than those sold in Singapore.

‘But this show came hot on the heels of the Super Imports Night, which features local distributors and agents, so people may not be able to tell the difference.

‘The Asia AutoSalon is really value for money and I’m sure there will be more real car enthusiasts who will go to the show in two years’ time.’

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A REGULAR SIDESHOW

THIS IS not the first time that drifting demonstrations featured at a local car show in Singapore.

But the fact that it is becoming a regular sideshow at car shows is a shot in the arm for the local drifting scene.

Local drift drivers from local drift forum Drift Garage Singapore – entrepreneur Jason Tan, 33, IT specialist Vincent Ng, 30, student Reg Teo, 25, and engineer Gene Ong, 31 – were invited to perform drifting displays at last weekend’s Asia AutoSalon.

It was a rare opportunity to raise awareness of formula drifting in Singapore.

‘We are very glad that Asia AutoSalon has given us a chance to showcase and promote our club,’ said business manager Marcus Loon, 37, who is the moderator of the forum.

Inspire

Established in 2006 with just three members, Drift Garage Singapore has more than 400 registered members today.

Made up of amateur drifters and drift enthusiasts, Drift Garage Singapore hopes to inspire more enthusiasts to join them.

Loon said: ‘We are a group of like-minded people with the same passion.

‘Within the club, there are lecturers, teachers, dentists, engineers and all sorts of other professions.

‘We hope to locate more drift fans and create more awareness for the club by participating in events such as Asia AutoSalon.’

The club organises regular drift sessions, where members drive up to Malaysia to practise and exchange tips on drift techniques.

‘Someday, we hope to have a proper drift track here in Singapore so that we can promote drifting to the masses,’ said Loon.

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Cute attraction

THE CUTE LamborMini All-Terrain-Vehicle (ATV) from Japanese tuning company Liberty Walk Co. Ltd made its debut at the 2009 Tokyo Auto Salon this year.

The 4×4 buggy made its first public appearance out of Japan at the Asia AutoSalon last weekend.

Ten units have been sold in Japan since it went on sale in April. The LamborMini cannot be driven on public roads but you can always keep it at home.

In Singapore, orders have to be placed through local distributor ST Powered Pte Ltd. It costs $29,980 (excluding shipping ) and another $6,600 for an in-built audio system.

SPECIFICATIONS:
Length: 2,470mm
Weight: 187kg
Height: 1,050mm
50cc 2-stroke engine
Front: Double wishbone suspension lowdown coilover
Rear: Long swing arm mono suspension lowdown coilover
Tyres: 215/35 ZR 18 (front), 225/35 ZR18 (rear)
Body colours available: Green, black, red, white, yellow, blue
Various Lamborghini parts like LB Performance ver. 1 style wing and LB 640 style taillight airbrush paint

——————————————————————————–
This story was first published in The New Paper.

 

She wants to be faster than ‘Uncle Mark’

The New Paper
Va-Va-Vroom
7 October 2009

SHE IS only four years old, but Kwee Kayli already has lofty racing ambitions.

‘My favourite Formula One driver is Uncle Mark. One day I want to be faster than him!’ Kayli told The New Paper sheepishly.

‘Uncle Mark’ is none other than Red Bull Racing’s Australian driver Mark Webber, whom Kayli met at the recent SingTel Singapore Grand Prix.

Kayli will take her first step to emulating her favourite driver when she zips around the track at KartRight Speedway – Singapore’s newest karting outfit – in her customised go-kart in a few weeks’ time.

Many Formula One and professional motor racing drivers honed their driving skills by karting at a young age.

Kayli was introduced to go-karting by her father Kevin Kwee, who is the executive director of Group Exklusiv.

Kwee, 39, was involved in securing the Canon sponsorship for the Brawn GP team at this year’s Singapore Grand Prix.

It was through his connections that his daughter got to meet Webber in person, as well as Renault’s Fernando Alonso.

Kwee took Kayli to watch her first Formula One race at last year’s inaugural race and she fell in love with the sport.

Kwee, who is into competitive karting and racing, is hoping that his daughter will follow in his footsteps.

Competitive

‘I started karting in my teenage years and later went on to competitive karting and motor racing. I hope to develop the racing instincts in my daughter,’ said Kwee, who participated in races like the Honda Michelin series in Canada and Formula Campus in Taiwan in the 1990s.

He also raced in a Ferrari F40 at tarmac rallies in Australia and the Ferrari 355 Challenge in the mid-1990s.

Kwee took his daughter to his last race at the Merdeka Millenium Endurance race at the Sepang International Circuit last year.

‘I helped daddy to suit up before his race and I like to watch him race,’ said Kayli.

To date, Kwee has invested about $8,000 on his daughter’s foray into go-karting.

That includes a customised go-kart, a personalised pink helmet that is airbrushed with hearts, princesses and crowns and a tailor-made racing suit.

‘To ensure her safety, the kart that I specially ordered for her has an electronic override function for the throttle and brakes,’ said Kwee. ‘That will allow her to manage the kart and drive freely.

‘Safety is the main priority, so I’m willing to spend on advanced technology.’

It is a well-known fact that go-karting provides a good foundation for those who want to go into competitive racing.

Starting from an early age will help one to develop the racing instincts and hone his driving skills.

However, most parents are not willing to let their children try their hand at karting from a young age because of the perceived pitfalls that are associated with the sport.

‘Like all parents, I worry for the safety of my daughter too,’ said Kwee who has another daughter, Kay-le, who is barely a month old.

‘In order for parents to accept that motorsport is not dangerous, they must first realise that racing is not done recklessly. There is a lot of high-speed action, but it is done within a controlled environment.

‘Also, there are actually a lot of safety measures and discipline in motorsport.

‘I’m allowing my daughter to start karting from young because it benefited me when I was a kid.

‘Karting helped me to grow stronger mentally and physically.’

When asked if he will allow Kayli go into competitive motor racing when she grows up, Kwee said: ‘If she is keen and she shows the potential, I won’t stop her and I will fully support her.’

This story was first published in The New Paper.

 

10 Things To Improve For Next Year

What do local drivers and others say about the SingTel Singapore Grand Prix? CHERYL TAY gets their views and recommendations

The New Paper
29 September 2009

1 NO MORE DUST
Many Formula One drivers, like Singapore race winner Lewis Hamilton, and even Formula BMW Pacific Championship leader Rio Haryanto and Singaporean Aston Martin Asia Cup driver Greg Teo had the same complaint – the track was very dusty and slippery, causing a significant lack of grip.

While some attributed it to the nearby Integrated Resorts’ construction work, Melvin Choo, Singapore’s only full-time race driver, had another reason.

He said: ‘Last year, there was IR construction work too but we didn’t experience so much dust. I feel it’s because of the shortened road closure period.

‘While the circuit was closed for 12 days last year, this year it was closed for much less; hence, less time to clean up the track, resulting in more dust.’
___________________________________________________________________________________________
2 SMOOTHER RIDE
The track may have been resurfaced at Turns Five and Seven, but many drivers still complained of a bumpy ride.

Hamilton, in particular, was critical.

He complained of how his McLaren was ‘bumping and bouncing and sliding’.

Said Teo: ‘We, in the Aston Martin cars, don’t feel the bumps as badly as the F1 drivers do because they are lower.

Certain sections are better, but the track is still slightly bumpy.’
___________________________________________________________________________________________
3 WIDER ON THE EXIT
The pit exit has been realigned to join the track after the first corner and the pit entry now has cars leaving the track before Turn 22.

Yet, Williams’ Nico Rosberg made an error on his exit and earned a drive-through penalty that pretty much sealed his chance on the podium.

‘The pit lane exit is still quite tight. See how easily Rosberg was caught unaware and went over the line?’ Teo said.
___________________________________________________________________________________________
4 TURN 10
This was where Ferrari’s Kimi Raikkonen crashed last year.

Despite being redesigned to reduce the risk of a car being damaged upon contact, the ‘Singapore Sling’ kerbs still pose a problem to drivers as they have to slow down tremendously in their approach to avoid riding over them.
___________________________________________________________________________________________
5 COLOURED CIRCUIT WALLS
A local race driver, who chose to remain anonymous, said painting the circuit walls in different colours might help to perk up the drivers.

Right now drivers are enclosed by running grey walls that make it so gloomy.
___________________________________________________________________________________________
6 NOTHING IS PERFECT
During an interview, Porsche Carrera Cup Asia driver Tim Sugden mentioned that the Marina Bay street circuit is a very unforgiving one.

‘One mistake and that’s it, you’ll be punished for the rest of the race,’ he said.

True enough, Sugden engaged the wrong gear accidentally during his aggressive pursuit of pole-sitter Christian Menzel and spun.

He said: ‘But that’s just how street circuits are. They’re not purpose-built and hence, not perfect for racing. We shouldn’t try so hard to make it perfect; as long as all the safety concerns are addressed, the track should be accepted as it is.’
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7 MORE SUPPORT FOR SUPPORT RACERS
The support race paddock was shifted to ground level of the Singapore Flyer multi-storey car park this year.

Cramming all garages of the three support races into one floor, drivers, mechanics, team crew and visitors alike complained of severe lack of space.
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8 SHUTTLE BUS SERVICES
This request was carried over from last year, when many complained of the amount of walking that had to be done within the circuit.

The shuttle bus schedules were revised this year and were apparently more convenient. However, shuttle buses ceased services at 1am and only catered to limited gates.

Members of the media, who worked past 1am, ended up running into blocked exits and walking round the circuit looking for a route out.
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9 MOTORSPORT FESTIVAL
To build up the momentum, Choo suggests having a month-long festival of motorsport activities as a lead up to the F1 race weekend.

Said Choo: ‘We can have current and classic racing car events or introduce motorsport personalities past and present, local and foreign. More car manufacturers should also be encouraged to participate and ride on the heightened automotive interest during this period.

‘This should prevent ticket sales from dwindling if the novelty of F1 wears off.’
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10 DISCOUNTS NEEDED
This year, early bird discounts on some ticket categories were the same as the non-discounted ticket price last year.

Bringing top entertainment acts and creating more convenience for spectators was appreciated, but ticket prices must be maintained.
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This story was first published in The New Paper.

 

Top 10 Race Highlights

CHERYL TAY and TNP’s F1 analyst LUKE NETTO evaluate the SingTel Singapore GP from trackside

The New Paper
28 September 2009

SAFETY CAR PERIOD
ONCE again like last year, the safety car was deployed mid-race, for an incident between Force India’s Adrian Sutil and BMW’s Nick Heidfeld.

Luckily this time, most of the front-runners had already done their first round of pit-stops so the running order was not affected massively like it was last year.

But there were a few guys who benefited, most obvious being Jenson Button who moved up from 10th to seventh position.

FUEL-HOSE DISASTER AGAIN
MEMORIES of Felipe Massa’s horrendous fuel rig incident in Singapore last year haunted Toro Rosso’s Jamie Alguersuari as he tried to leave with the fuel nozzle still attached to his car during his pit-stop on Lap 22.

Fortunately he realised in time and stopped quickly. A few team members were knocked over in the process but nothing serious.

DUSTY END
RED BULL’S Mark Webber was already fuming after having to yield his place to Fernando Alonso earlier for making an illegal overtaking move.

More ill-fate followed as a big cloud of dust burst out of Webber’s brakes immediately after his pit-stop on Lap 45.

A brake failure down the start-finish straight sent him spinning off into the barriers at Turn 1 on the next lap.

His car suffered no major damage but it marked the end of Webber’s race.

VETTEL’S BAD LUCK
SEBASTIEN Vettel was closing in quickly on race leader Lewis Hamilton in his Red Bull when he kissed a wall on Lap 37 and his right rear-view mirror came off.

He also got punished with a drive-through penalty for speeding in the pit-lane during his second pit-stop on Lap 40. In addition, he ran over a chicane and had some parts fly up from under his car. After all those mishaps, Vettel calmed down for a fourth-place finish, when second place was initially his for the taking.

DEBRIS
SOMETHING flew off the back of Timo Glock’s Toyota on Lap 14 and landed in the middle of the racing lane.

That piece of debris remained on the track close to the racing line as all cars somehow avoided it safely.

Finally, a courageous marshal ran out and retrieved it on Lap 17. A round of applause for him, please.

ROSBERG’S NIGHTMARE
NICO Rosberg suffered a drive-through penalty for passing the white line while exiting the pits.

The reason he didn’t serve the penalty while the safety car was out was because if he had come in while the safety car was out, he would have returned out at the back of the pack.

But since he only served his penalty two laps after the safety car went in, a gap managed to open up and so he rejoined the race in 14th position.

HEIDFELD LOVES SUTIL
ADRIAN Sutil made a botched move inside Jaime Alguersuari and spun instead. While trying to rejoin the race, he took out the very unlucky Nick Heidfeld passing by.

Sutil didn’t get off the power and tried to spin the car back onto the track immediately. That is considered dangerous. He was fined US$20,000 ($28,000).

RED BULL FLOP
BY THE looks of things, we might not have any more Red Bull parties at Sentosa here next here.

Of the four Red Bull-backed cars, both Toro Rosso drivers retired with technical problems, Mark Webber had brake failure which caused him to crash at Turn 1 and Vettel had a drive-through penalty given to him for speeding in the pit-lane.

Red Bull’s chances of winning anything this season has taken a big hit. The constructors’ title looks to be Brawn’s for sure and drivers’ title to be battled out by the two Brawn drivers.

NOT ENOUGH OVERTAKING
ALTHOUGH some modifications were made to the circuit and some cars were equipped with Kers, there still wasn’t enough overtaking.

Adrian Sutil was stuck behind Jaime Alguersuari – who looked to be at least two seconds off the pace.

FERRARI’S SINGAPORE CURSE
ANOTHER poor weekend for Ferrari here in Singapore, not scoring a single point once again.

This was rather surprising especially since Kimi Raikkonen has been very strong in the last few races. But he had no pace whatsoever here this weekend.

We’re sure they will be looking to end this bad run here next year.

 

Hooray for Singapore

The New Paper
28 September 2009

IT HAS been his dream of 35 years for Singaporean Ringo Chong, 42.

Until yesterday, Chong’s proudest moment was when he stood on the podium in third place at last year’s Aston Martin Asia Cup support race.

He has since rewritten history when he came in first with a total time of 25 minutes 59.569 seconds, ahead of 13 other drivers, at this year’s Aston Martin Asia Cup race, which will be the last in the series – there are no plans to bring it back next year.

Standing on the top of the podium, an emotional Chong fought back his tears as Singapore’s national anthem played over the speakers at the Marina Bay street circuit.

“I’ve been waiting for this. The last Singaporean to win on home grounds was Rodney Seow in 1967 and it’s time to replace that. I’m so happy now that no words can really describe the joy I’m experiencing now.”

After fighting for pole position, the race was his to lose after closest rival Sri Lankan Dilantha Malagamuwa spun while trying to chase Australian Mark Williamson,who had overtaken him at the start.

Chong pulled away from the field and looked good to win, except for some fleeting moments when his rear tyres started smoking.

“My brake fluid was leaking, so I had to hold back and settle for a comfortable pace instead of pushing hard. I was praying hard for my car to successfully get home so I can safely take this win.”

Malaysian Mok Weng Sun, who races for Singaporean Team Porsche Club Singapore, secured a place on the podium when he came in third after overtaking Malaysian Tunku Hammam during the last moments of the race.

Spun

Singaporeans Greg Teo and George Ong finished 10th and 11th respectively.

At the Porsche Carrera Cup Asia, championship leader Tim Sugden dashed all hopes of taking the win from pole sitter Christian Menzel when he spun in the first lap while trying to get in front of Menzel.

Menzel held onto his lead and took the chequered flag in 29 minutes 1.846 seconds after 12 laps, followed by Craig Baird and Danny Watts.

Relegated all the way to the back of the field, Sugden eventually came in 6th.

Singaporeans Melvin Choo and Ringo Chong completed the race in 10th and 11th respectively, while rookie Yuey Tan finished in 13th.

 

The man Suriya will have to overtake

The New Paper
28 September 2009

FOR Singapore’s Suriya Bala Kerisnan, the man he’ll want to beat is Rio Haryanto.

Who is Rio?

An almost full-page advertisement in the Straits Times last Friday called him Indonesia’s F1 world champion, but added in smaller print,coming soon.

Meet Formula BMW Pacific’s current championship leader from Indonesia, a 15-year-old business student based in Singapore who dreams of reaching Formula One one day.

Before this weekend’s race, Rio was fully funded by Kiky Stationery, a business in Indonesia, owned by his 50-year-old father Sinyo.

Born in Solo, Central Java, Indonesia, Rio is currently residing near the Katong area and studying business at FTMS Global Singapore.

After consecutively winning the last five rounds of the Formula BMW Pacific series, Rio managed to clinch a sponsorship deal with Indonesian cellular telecommunication company Telkomsel (35 per cent owned by SingTel) last month.

Contract

The deal is worth 50,000 euros ($104,000) and is valid for a contract of three years.

“We approached Telkomsel since the start of this year and have been pursuing them since. They finally agreed to fund Rio with a deal worth 50,000 euros and that covers about a third of this season’s expenses,” said Sinyo, who makes it a point to follow his son to every race.

Sinyo has spent more than a million euros on Rio’s racing career since Rio started karting at the age of six.

Rio – the youngest of four sons – participated in his first competitive kart race at the age of nine.

He went on to conquer the Asian Karting Open Championship,winning the Junior category three years in a row from 2005 to 2007. In 2006, he also won the Rotax Max Asian Championship.

Last year, Rio raced in the Asian Formula Renault championship, Formula Asia 2.0 and Formula BMW Pacific.

Switching from Asia Racing Team (which is the team now hoping to groom Singapore’s Suriya for next year) to Questnet Team Qi-Meritus this year, Rio is competing in his first full season of Formula BMW Pacific.

The weekend started well for Rio as he took second place at the first race at the MarinaBay circuit.

But he failed to repeat his performance in the second race yesterday and finished fifth.

“After investing so much money, of course I would want my son to win. The next step forward for him would be to go for GP3,” said Sinyo.

The GP3 Series is a single-seater motor racing series that will start next year as a feeder series for the GP2 Series, F1’s strongest feeder series.

Rio told The New Paper: “Like most, my dream is to become an F1 driver.

“I know few Asians have succeeded in F1, but I will definitely do my best to achieve the highest possible level in motorsport.”
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Paid to drive

SURIYA Bala Kerisnan – without any major team or individual sponsorship like Rio Haryanto – has an uphill task to reach the standards shown by Brazilian Felipe Nasr.

With limited sponsors, Nasr, 17 – a guest driver during this weekend’s Formula BMW Pacific race and winner in the two races on Saturday and yesterday – did not have enough funds when he joined Euro International.

But Nasr impressed his team boss Antonio Ferrari enough so the latter agreed to fund the remaining three-quarters of the budget.

He visited Singapore, fresh from winning the championship title at the recently-concluded Formula BMW Europe (a step higher than Formula BMW Pacific).

Prior to Nasr’s first full season in Formula BMW Europe this year, he had only been a guest driver in the two Formula BMW Americas support races to the Brazilian Grand Prix last year.

Experience

Other than that, his racing experience was limited to karting only.

Ferrari, who has been at the helm of the team for two decades, told The New Paper: “Nasr surprised everybody at the testing. In the same car, he set a time four tenths quicker than the lap record we set in the Formula BMW world final. He’s amazing, I’m so glad I found him.”