Singapore circuit takes shape as race nears

SINGAPORE (Reuters) - Singapore is two months away from hosting its first Formula One grand prix and its ambitious street circuit is slowly taking shape.

The wide avenues of the Central Business District, home to most of the 5.067-km circuit, have pristine surfaces and more than 60 percent of the 240 pylons set to house projectors for the sport's first night race on September 28 have been constructed.

"So much effort has gone into the planning for the race and we are currently on schedule in all areas of preparations," Singapore Tourism Board director of F1 Projects Lawrence Leong told Reuters.

"Construction of the pit building is almost complete and steady progress with the lighting system keeps us well on course for an early September completion date.

"All road resurfacing was completed in June, ahead of schedule for the handover of a mandatory 90-day pre-track inspection by the International Automobile Federation (FIA)," Leong added.

Since Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone gave the city-state the green light to host the event in May 2007, race organisers and construction workers have been operating around the clock to complete preparations.

"Despite time constraints, everything has gone smoothly thanks to strong cooperation, efficient planning and the proper utilization of resources," Leong added.

NIGHT RACE

The tiny Southeast Asian island is hosting the 15th round of an 18-stop schedule. Adding to the excitement of the late-season championship push is the fact that to cater to European television audiences the race starts at 8 p.m. local time (1200

GMT)

"It was a strategic decision for us to hold a night race because there are many advantages," race media and communications director Jonathan Hallett added.

"It is a lot cooler in the evening and an electric night-time atmosphere will also deliver an amazing perspective on Singapore and its stunning cityscape. It will also make history as the series' first-ever night race."

Drivers and teams have expressed reservations about racing at night on an unfamiliar street circuit and with the monsoon season running until late September the prospect of a sodden track will add to their concerns.

When the chequered flag is waved for the race winner in what could be a decisive result for the championship, the end of the grand prix will also mark the culmination of 17 months of intensive and complicated work for the organisers.

"The lighting system was initially a technical challenge and installing the pylons around the circuit required a unique design and meticulous planning to prevent damage to existing services," Leong said.

"In addition, consideration was given to maintain the city's track-side greenery."

TICKET SALES

Construction work is common in a modern metropolis such as Singapore and this has allowed organisers to get on with the task with a minimum of fuss from the island's inhabitants, used to the urban symphony created by diggers and pile drivers.

"Luckily, the feedback from the public has been nothing but positive with strong support in ticket sales and an overwhelming response to our call for volunteers when we announced the recruitment of marshals last December," Hallett added.

"We have also exceeded our initial target of 70,000 spectators per day. With the overwhelming demand for tickets, we have had to increase our spectator capacity to over 100,000."

Leong accepts that by making the grand prix a permanent fixture on the Formula One calendar, Singapore has a golden opportunity to raise its profile in both the sports and business arenas.

"As well as putting the country firmly in the global spotlight, the tourism industry and economy will gain tangible benefits," he said.

"Incremental tourism receipts of around $100 million are also expected to be generated annually from the race."

(Editing by Clare Fallon)