Home Coming

Both Hyundai's that powered TSM arrived home safely via sea freight on 12th Dec 2007.
The homecoming party was held on Sunday, 16th Dec 2007 at Potter's Cafe, Safra @ Mount Faber. As the team members and invited guests had a great session of merry-making, the occasion also marked the successful defense of our Best Team Title.

In addition, we won the Safety Car Award.
Last but not least, our gratitude to all sponsors, helpers and well-wishers.

Thanks to A Few Good Men

Words by Leslie Chang

In all sports, funding is often a key issue. Thus, at the beginning, TSM decided that, where and when possible, it shall strive to be self-funded. Yes, the decision saved us the time and effort needed to make presentations and canvass for potential sponsors. However, the mission would not be possible without the kind assistance rendered by some helpful individuals and generous organisations.

Firstly, I would like to thank Singapore Motor Sports Association (SMSA) for appointing for me to lead TSM on this high profile mission. Also, to Tan Teng Lip, president of SMSA, for loaning his Terracan.

Jeffrey Low (renowned ex-sports editor) and Lawrence Dana (my old-time race rival) were responsible for convincing Komoco Motors Pte Ltd to extend special discount for my purchase of the new Santa Fe.

Chen Fei-Wei (my Thai-English teacher) provided advice on the purchase, installation and proper usage of our radio communication system. We later became friendly with the comm shop (R-One Trading Pte Ltd) who taught Ernest the art of antenna tuning.

Albert Tai recommended Garmin GPS to me and carefully supervised its installation including audio set and comm set at Tye Electronic Co Pte Ltd.

For those who have been following my stories, the Garmin GPS is remarkable.

Andy Tan carried out the pre-event tuning on the Santa Fe. The installation of the underguard was provided by kind courtesy of Espace Service Pte Ltd.

The support from Stamford Tyres International Pte Ltd through the years has largely contributed towards my continuous success in motorsports. Its wheel plant in Thailand, Stamford Sport Wheels Co Ltd, provided TSM the home-away-from-home feeling when we arrived in Bangkok.

Special thanks to William Lyou (my racing mentor). William provided many useful tips and followed the team’s progress vividly right from the beginning.

In my CAITA 2006 daily log, I prayed God to bless Nguyen Duc Hieu indefinitely for his help in getting our right-hand drive cars through the Vietnamese custom. We never expected to face the same problem, again! Words could not possibly describe how helpful Duc Hieu has been. I call him a saint.

We are thankful to our host’s warm hospitality and we look forward to reciprocate in the kind gesture especially to Li Chun Wei, David Dai and Rong Daisheng.

Lastly, we wish to express our sincere appreciation to the organizer, officials, media, friends, SMSA helpers and followers of our adventure. And, also to the many whom we did not make appropriate mention.

TSM certainly owes its success in CAITA 2007 to more than just a few good men.

Franking our Chief-in-Command, Mr Li Chun Wei

Difficult Terrain vs Difficult Mankind

The following is an extract from Channel NewsAsia phone interview with TSM’s Dr Tan Poh Heng.

1) What was the purpose of the car rally?
(To further strengthen the economic ties and social bonds between China and the Asean countries.)

2) Why did you choose to take part?
(Partly because my friend Mr Leslie Chang, who is also the chef de mission for the Singapore team, took part in the 2006 event and introduced me to such an event. What he encountered last year was well documented and this stimulated my interest in it. Also I felt that this was going to be an experience that may not come true for many in their life time. A lot of people can’t even imagine themselves traveling to Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam let alone driving there.)

3) Were there any memorable events (good and bad)?
(**On the very first day, the Rally bus in the main convoy broke down during lunch at Malacca.
This delayed our journey by more than 2 hours and we ended up driving to our first destination Ipoh in the night and compounded by pelting rain. Add on to that, our group had to babysit a ‘lost sheep’ from another group because the Chinese driver had problems with the road signs.
**The rocky roads of Cambodia were the most difficult sector of the rally.
Fortunately, the cooperation of the 5 cars in our group made the drive less treacherous and uncomfortable.
The care and concern of the Chinese driver in the lead car of our group will always be fondly remembered by us.
**Our young ambassador, Bingo who is also Leslie’s son, entertained everyone with his magic tricks throughout the trip. This was especially apparent at the Thai immigration while we were waiting for clearance. A large crowd that included immigration officers, China media people, participants of CAITA and even the street urchins gathered round to watch his performance. The end result was everyone was very impressed with his as well as the whole Singapore team’s performance.)

4) What were some of the difficulties you encountered?
(Besides some difficult roads, the main difficulties encountered were at the Thai and Vietnamese immigration points.
At the Thai side, we were hampered by the poor paper work of the Thai guides in filling up the immigration forms of the entry permit of the cars.
At the Vietnamese immigration, we were held back by their refusal to let right-hand drive cars into the country.
This was despite the relevant authorities ensuring us that all has been arranged.
Ultimately, we were allowed in by the so called ‘5.30pm rule’ – ie time to go home for the staff.
The reason for the delay is something that I feel our MFA should be interested to find out.)

5) Were there any lessons learnt from the experience?
(Trips like this is definitely a good way of cultural exchange amongst the various countries. You get to see and experience a lot more of a country driving through it. We’ve also learnt that we still have some way to go before seamless travel amongst the Asean countries can be realized.
(Having foreign embassies is good but may not always be useful!) )

6) Is there going to be another car rally in the near future? If so, when?
(This is an annual event and it is usually held in the month of October in line with the China-Asean Summit. In fact, it is a fringe event of that summit together with other China-Asean events like China-Asean Expo etc.)

7) How can one participate, or is it for exclusive circles of society?
(The event is organized by the state government of Guangxi Province with support from General Administration of Sport of China - China’s equivalent of our MCYS and Federation of Automobile Sports, China. Participation is through invitation by the organizing committee. This is usually extended to the governing bodies of motorsports of the various countries.)

Drive your way, Hyundai?

Words by Leslie Chang

Hyundai is not a name synonymous to motorsport. Other than a brief spell in the World Rally Championship starring Wayne Bell and Alistair McRae respectively, the brand is better known for its no-frills offerings. Locally, the marque is gaining acceptance with its vastly improved quality and is exceptionally popular among off-peak car buyers.

What drove Team Singapore, Motorsports (TSM) to elect Hyundai as its partner for the historic mission to China? The first vehicle, a Terracan, was a matter of convenience rather than choice. It belongs to SMSA’s President, Mr Tan Teng Lip who had kindly agreed to loan the car to TSM. It would be politically incorrect to refuse his generosity. Besides, this SUV with its 3.5-litre engine was already well proven during CAITA 2006 under the hands of William Lyou. The heat insulator to protect the spare tyre from the exhaust muffler's heat and the fabricated fuel tank skid protector plate were still intact after last year’s outing. However, the low-profile 18-inch wheels were replaced with the original specification of 16-inch all-terrain tyres in anticipation of the rough conditions in Cambodia. The choice of TSM’s second vehicle took a little longer.

The Subaru Forester that I drove during last year’s event was on pace with the competition but fell short on interior space. Thus, I went about shopping for a bigger car. Although my budget was limited, there was surprisingly no lack of choice. I decided to look beyond those makes that were fitted with conventional 4-cyclinder engines. Hence, the Santa Fe was chosen for its V6 engine / 7-seater combo plus the promise of a rear self-leveling system. Sadly, I later found that the latter feature was found lacking in real world conditions, thanks to constant heavy loads and the demanding stages that we encountered.

We were reasonably pleased with some of our pre-event preparations. Starting from the top, the antennas for our radio systems were meticulously calibrated for exact length and optimum placement. As a result, it came as no surprise that our communications were one of the best in the Rally. We could even use our powerful radio to help the occasional lost ‘sheep’ to contact their respective group. Next component that deserves special mention must be the after-market GPS that was installed in the Santa Fe. The unit was cleverly inter-faced with the car’s audio entertainment system so we could enjoy double-din size monitor display with touch screen capability. Best of all, it provided navigational aid and relayed advance information all the way to Nanning, China without the need to pre-load any costly software. It was certainly more useful than we had expected.

The punishing road conditions of Cambodia Highway No. 6 will stay in our memory for a long time. We traveled twice on this infamous route. The first passage was shorter and took slightly more than an hour without any notable incident. However, it was painfully difficult for both Hyundais when we traveled the entire length of the ‘highway’ on the return leg ie. from Siam Reap to the Thai border. It prompted me to write these remarks on Day 7 of our daily log: “…the run wasn’t trouble free. The suspension of our vehicles was clearly unable to sustain prolonged pounding of the rough terrain. Even the comparatively rugged Terracan suffered rear end bottoming. At times, the bone-shaking jolts from the ruts and holes shook the wiper stalk resulting in the occasional ‘automatic’ wipes on the windscreen. We had the opportunity to engage the 4WD Lock on the Santa Fe to keep the wheel spin and body twists in control on a muddy section.” Clearly, an upgrade of suspension and some improvements on the under-carriage would be in order for future attempts. The 3½ hour journey ended with the Santa Fe from hitting a rock near the border. Other than a noticeable compression on the metal underguard, the car’s lower frame was undamaged. The installation of the guard during our pre-event preparations saved the day.

I must admit that our expectations would be higher if we were given more up-market cars like Touareg, XC-90, or Discovery. Nevertheless, it would be fair to say that the Sante Fe was as good as a car could be. For most parts of the marathon drive, the silky engine, comfortable cabin and user-friendly handling often made us forget that we were in a Rally. On the other hand, the frame-on-ladder Terracan had enormous torque to make up for its lesser road behaviour. Save for a loosen steering rod, the bigger Hyundai had the rare credential for completing CAITA twice with remarkable flair. On that note, I shall conclude that Hyundai has accomplished more than just ‘drive your way’.

Work, play and sleep in my Hyundai

What makes the team members click?

Words by Leslie Chang

Team Singapore, Motorsports (TSM) comprises of 2 cars, each carrying a driver, 2nd driver and a navigator. For reason best known to the organizer, our line-up was reshuffled on day 1, immediately after we crossed Tuas checkpoint. The Santa Fe was designated Car # 26 with Aki-boon (driver), Poh Heng (2nd driver) and Bingo (navigator). The Terracan – Car # 27, was piloted by myself (Leslie), Davo (2nd driver) and Ernest (navigator).
I later learned that the move was to take advantage of my past experience and that the Terracan would serve as a sweeper car all the way till end of Rally.

During last year’s inaugural CAITA, William Lyou and I were able to communicate in Chinese with our lead car and, as a result, we carried out whatever required maneuvers promptly. We were never overly dependent on our navigators. Under adverse conditions, we drove with great understanding and precision. In the absence of William, this unmatched level of partnership was not to be repeated. The matter was further compounded by the fact that 2 of our drivers are ang-mo’s. In addition to navigation, both Ernest and Bingo had to multi-task by providing translations whenever the ang-mo’s were driving. Under such circumstances, both navigators felt a little stretched. Hence, some unpopular decisions had to be made. (a.) Under predictably good road and traffic conditions where minimal navigational instructions/translations were required, the 2 ang-mo’s would drive both Hyundai’s; and (b.) Poh Heng and I would do the driving where and when radio communication would be vital such as during heavy traffic, dark hours and on rocky roads.

The ang-mo’s were visibly unhappy with the arrangement as they were subjected to lesser challenges. Secondly, they felt that Poh Heng and I were talking (via talkies) excessively while driving. They were concerned that we might have disregarded the safety factor. On ground that all human and machines needed time to shake-down, the team members persevered. The ang-mo’s soon realized that their roles were by no mean ‘easier’. Their drives on the super highways in China and northern Thailand were fast while the scenic drive towards Lao/Vietnam border was very rewarding. Not quite happy ending though as they have not gotten over our non-stop chatting over the radio. Poh Heng and I conversed mostly in Hokkien while driving. The ang-mo’s were not convinced with my explanation that, most of the time, I was providing navigational aids and advanced driving lessons to Poh Heng. They suspected that I acted as a lookout for other attractive looking road users. And, thus, it would affect Poh Heng’s driving whenever I relayed such distracting information to him. Well, the ang-mo’s were not totally wrong after all.

Off the field, TSM carried itself cohesively and repeatedly exchanged compliments with our Chinese hosts cordially. The Guangxi Daily News reported that TSM is “a happy team filled with constant laughter” accompanied by a picture of Bingo in ‘action’. I would like to add that whenever Bingo had to perform on stage, the team rallied firmly behind him. It was good enough to earn Bingo a precious rare hug from the Vice-Governor of Guangxi Province (Mdm Liu Xin Wen) during the event’s grand finale. That’s something which even William and Leslie have yet to learn.

a deserving hug from the Vice-Governor

Hot Stuff write-up

Various newspapers

GuangXi Daily
20th Oct 2007

GuangXi news
22nd Oct 2007

GunagXi news
23rd Oct 2007

Guang Xi Television Interview

Online Videos by Veoh.com

CAITA 2007 Daily Report - Day 13

LATEST: Team Singapore, Motorsports won Best Team Award!

DAY 13
Monday, 22nd October 2007
Nanning, China

Guangxi state TV studio


The victorious Team Singapore


Words of appreciation


The convoy departed Ninming this morning promptly at 8.30AM in order to arrive at 10.45AM in Nanning. We traveled 182 kms, making our grand total of 4,982 kms since we left Singapore.

The drive was at a leisurely pace through a landscape reminiscent of many of the Chinese paintings depicting high rocky mountains with sheer cliff faces and dense tree growth. The area between Ninming and Nanning is devoted entirely to sugar cane, as far as the eye can see. The Highway is perhaps one of the best we have encountered anywhere. The attention to landscaping of the highway shoulders and dividers was amazing and the standard of maintenance and cleanliness has to be seen to be believed.

The last 20 kilometers or so into Nanning have very heavily landscaped with tens of thousands of trees, shrubs and flowers and all were maintained to absolute perfection. Very impressive indeed.

The full Rally convoy had a police escort all the way from Ninming. Once we reached the city of Nanning, all roads leading to our route were blocked by the police giving us a clear, non stop run all the way to our hotel, the Best Western Red Forest Hotel. The feeling was that Nanning could be mistaken for Shanghai. This city and Province are China’s gateway to Indo China and South East Asia. Planners are looking well ahead in fulfilling this function.

Tonight’s dinner in the hotel was held early with many special guests including the very popular Deputy Governor of Quangxi Province. Much food and alcohol were consumed and a party atmosphere prevailed before we were taken by bus to a local television station for a live broadcast of the prize presentation ceremony.

Presentations were made in between some very entertaining dancing and singing performances. The show ran for about 1 ½ hours. Our Bingo appears to have made a big impact with the Deputy Governor. She was moved to give him a very big hug at the end of the show (repeated for the press as well). The big Cheese did us proud during the live interview that resulted in a rousing applause from the audience.

Both entries from Singapore won the Best Team and Safety Award respectively. In addition, all team members were presented with Friendship and Participation Certificates.

"The 2 Hyuandai's were handed to the organiser's appointed forwarder at Qin Zhou Port. We expect the cars to be back in Singapore by mid-November. Meanwhile, a review of the team's overall performance shall be posted on http://china-asean.blogspot.com in due course. We are thankful to those who have contributed towards the success of our team. Yet another happy ending for Team Singapore, Motorsports (TSM)."
Leslie Chang, Chief d’ Mission, TSM.

CAITA 2007 Daily Report - Day 12

DAY 12
Sunday, 21st October 2007
Ningming, China

Gate of Hua Shan


Bingo at work

Sunday has been the proverbial day of rest for all team members. A chance to catch up on sleep and to do a bit laundry and sight seeing.

After a late breakfast, all Rally participants were called for a photo shoot in the hotel grounds. These photos will feature in the printed books produced to commemorate the CAITA 2007. It was a fun event with everyone in high spirits. The end is in sight, a real relief for the Chinese crews who have traveled in both directions, spending some four weeks away from home and clocked over 10,000 kilometers.

After lunch, we were treated to a guided tour of the local icon, the Hua Shan Cliffs with their remarkable primitive paintings. Using our own vehicles, with police escort, we took a short 15 minute drive to a boat landing on the Ming Jiang (river). Three boats then took us up river for half an hour or so to the Hua Shan Cliffs, famous for their primitive paintings dating back over 2,500 years. The river cruise was simply charming, the scenery postcard perfect.

Returning to the hotel, our next event was a basketball match between a local team and volunteers from the Rally. A special dinner then followed at 8PM. A number of local female singers entertained us and our own Bingo the Magnificent was the final act. He had the entire audience crowding the stage area to catch his act and, despite some silly interruptions by one of the audience, he acquitted himself with honour.

As usual the Singapore and Malaysian teams were the last to leave the dining room, making sure there was as little alcohol remaining as possible.

Peace has broken out between Lay-pid and Aki-boon with the result of the Rugby World Cup Final reaching us. We were all disappointed to learn that Lay-pid’s glorious England had lost to South Africa….to repeat, South Africa beat England!!

CAITA 2007 Daily Report - Day 11

DAY 11
Saturday, 20th October 2007
Ningming, China


Annuity Dance


Tour de Vietnam


Survivors of CAITA 2007


Never leave home without cards


'Homecoming' celebrations


Today was essentially the last day of the Rally, although, to be accurate, our drive in convoy this Monday to Nanning will be the last leg. Our early 5.30AM start this morning went without a hitch and after a quick breakfast we were on the road in darkness, negotiating the streets of Hanoi.

We have not had the time to take a look at Hanoi but a number of things struck us on the way out. Firstly, heavy traffic was in evidence, even at this early hour. It was quite remarkable how many people were out exercising. Staying fit is clearly important to the locals. The Red River flows through Hanoi and we passed a very wide stretch of this famous body of water. The Ba Dinh Square, Parliament Building and Prime Minister’s Office were on our route.

We now faced a 180 kilometer drive to the Chinese border at Lang Son. The scenery on this stretch was about the best for the entire trip. Northern Vietnam is clearly very fertile and the farming is intense and almost manicured. Crops of wheat, corn, rice and, banana are everywhere in the most orderly patterns. The farming is conducted in between many large mountainous stone outcrops giving a beautiful backdrop to the landscape.

We reached the border after a morning tea break and leisurely drive at about 10AM. Participants and cars were cleared eventually by 11AM but what really moved us all was the welcome put on by the organizers. Immediately we crossed into China, we were greeted by the Deputy Governor of Guangxi Province (who saw us off in Singapore) and a number of other prominent officials. Also there were 40 or so dancers in costume greeting us in the local manner. It was a wonderful welcome when contrasted with our treatment by Vietnam yesterday.

The welcoming ceremonies continued for about 2 hours with more dancing, speeches and ceremony from our very generous hosts. Press were in attendance in force. Representatives of each participating nation were presented with floral bouquets. This must be one of the most photographed events this writer has ever attended. The scope of the welcome was beyond our expectations.

A short 40 kms drive from the border (making 234 kms for the day, 4,800 kms to date) is our accommodation for the next two nights, the Hua Shan Guest House. Basic but comfortable, we will stay here for two nights before driving to Nanning for the big closing ceremonies. We were interested to learn that this ‘hotel’ was a Military Command Centre during China’s brief war with Vietnam in 1979.

“Team Singapore, Motorsports (TSM) arrived safely in NingMing, a holding area for rest-and-relax, group photography and debrief by organizer prior to the grand finale in Nanning. Given the relative inexperience of TSM line up, both men and machines had completed the endurance test without any major incident. I am proud that we not only rode the wave but had established ourselves as exemplary ambassadors of TSM. Mr Winson Ow from SMSA who flew in today to take part in the closing ceremonies.”
Leslie Chang, Chief d’ Mission, TSM.

CAITA 2007 Daily Report - Day 10

DAY 10
Friday, 19th October 2007
Hanoi, Vietnam

Still looking good after 10 days.


A picture tells a thousand motorcycles.

We departed Vinh after breakfast at 7.30AM and headed north for the Vietnamese capital, Hanoi. Road conditions were not particularly good. The highway to Hanoi is lined non stop with housing and businesses so there is never a break from heavy car, truck, bus and motorcycle traffic. The road was mostly single lane and this made it difficult to make good time. The casual driving habits of the Vietnamese provided us with some ‘hairy’ moments.

The landscape was flat, in the main, indispersed with unusual granite outcrops. Crops of rice and wheat were in abundance. Lunch was provided at an enormous Vietnamese restaurant on the road. For the first time on the Rally, the meal was disappointing.

The drive through the streets of Hanoi was a special experience for those of us visiting the city for the first time. The number of motorcycles on the road is simply beyond belief. Our Viet guide explained that we were not traveling during peak hours when even more motorcycles would be on the roads. Leslie and Poh Heng were the drivers for this stage. They coped with the extremely difficult driving conditions very well. We reached our hotel at about 3PM. Distance traveled today was 298 kilometers.

Tonight we are staying at La Thanh Guest House, a Government run 3 star facility. Our team spent the afternoon relaxing or walking the streets of Hanoi. Our fearless leader, the Big Cheese, spent his time attending to his e-mail correspondence. Dinner was provided in one of the hotel’s function rooms.

This is our last night on the road. Tomorrow we cross into China and make our way to the finish line at Nanning in the Province of Guangxi. Restrictions on the movement of the large Rally bus during morning peak hours meant that we must rise at 4.30AM and clear the city by 6AM. We are all very excited about our last day on the road. A big official welcome for the Rally has been planned and it is clearly going to be a big day for everyone.

“For the past 10 days, Team Singapore, Motorsports (TSM) had continuous opportunity to experience different places and challenges. As these daily affairs became routine, team members started looking for new ‘excitement’. Ernest has gotten sick of my sleeping habit (read snoring) while Aki-boon had repeatedly requested for Bingo to be his room mate. Thus, changes were made in order to keep team spirit high but not dry. And, I must add, we are still talking to each other”
Leslie Chang, Chief d’ Mission, TSM.

CAITA 2007 Daily Report - Day 09

DAY 9
Thursday, 18th October 2007
Vinh, Vietnam

Buy now, Enbloc potentials


Horrible sight, even for non-dog lovers.


'Rain cloud - gathering' devices


Foreign worker levy exempted.

This has been a day of ups and downs for us. We got off to bad start when our departure from Vientiane was delayed till 7.30AM after a 5.30 wake-up call. We did not allow this to spoil a great morning drive east to the Vietnamese border.

The general impression of Lao is very favorable. When compared with Cambodia, she has a better sense of order within towns and villages. The border with Vietnam is about 380 kilometers away and the last 100 kms or so was scenically the best we have seen so far. The terrain was mountainous and the landscape a series of valleys surrounded by mountains, sheer granite cliffs and lush vegetation. We climbed the mountain range that marks this eastern region of Laos to the Lao/Viet border at an elevation that gave us cool temperatures, rain and heavy mist. Quite a contrast to the hot conditions that have prevailed so far.

Our worst fears were confirmed when we tried to enter Vietnam. Despite the fact that all relevant approvals for the 4 units of right hand drive vehicles (including 2 from Malaysia) had been obtained from the Vietnamese Government, their Customs head was not prepared to allow them into Vietnam. We can only speculate at the reason(s) for this attitude. There was frantic effort put in by the Chinese organizers and the Vietnamese participants in the Rally to resolve this matter with the duty Custom officer. Even our own Poh Heng contacted the Singapore Embassy in Vietnam in an effort to prevail. None of this seemed to help however.

By 5.30PM, we eventually got the green light on condition that we be escorted by the police to our hotel in Vinh. We left the border at 6PM (a delay of 4 ½ hours) and reached the hotel at about 8PM. Leslie believes that the final approval came as a result of what he calls the ‘5:30 rule’. The Customs officer was finishing work at 5.30 and Leslie always felt that we would get our approval then. He was right!! The police escort was fun, siren and all. Road conditions to the port city of Vinh were fine. The darkness prevented us from taking in any of the scenery. otel,

Our distance traveled today was 470 kms and our total to date is now 4,250 kms.

Tonight we stay at the Phuong Dong Hotel, a 3 star hotel in central Vinh. Dinner was provided immediately on arrival and we are all looking forward to an early night.

Tomorrow we head north to Hanoi, our last overnight stay before we reach China.

“The crews of Team Singapore, Motorsports (TSM) had their first taste of take-away lunch which was handed to us when we left Vientiane. The sandwiches were a better-than-nothing option for us. But, interestingly, our ‘ang mo’ teammates were over the moon. The lunch amid a lazy roadside atmosphere in a small town near the Lao/Vietnam border must have really made their day. I could only speculate that they have eaten too much Chinese food for the past week. On the same token, our cars were pumped with lower grade fuel as high octane petrol was not conveniently available. We added some additives to the cars to compensate for the given fuel. And, I must add that the ang mo’s had politely declined my offerings of booster to them – in any forms.”
Leslie Chang, Chief d’ Mission, TSM.

CAITA 2007 Daily Report - Day 08

DAY 8
Wednesday, 17th October 2007
Vientiane, Lao

Disinfection wash, Lao


Steer and Shoot

Our accommodation this evening is at the Don Chan Palace Hotel, located on the eastern bank of the amazing Mekong River. This is the largest and most luxurious hotel in Vientiane and we are again grateful to our hosts for their generous hospitality.

Our run today from Nacho Ratchasima was uneventful on the excellent Thai Highway linking this city with the Laos border crossing, a distance of about 370 kilometers. Vientiane is a short drive of 20+ kilometers from the border. The border at this point is, in fact, the Mekong River and the crossing is at the Thai/Lao Friendship Bridge.

We expected the worst from Customs and Immigration on both sides but our fears were unfounded. The crossing was relatively smooth with minimal delays. We reached our destination at about 12.30PM after a 6.30AM start. Our total distance traveled is now 3,800 kilometers.

Some members of our team attracted the attention of the Chinese national press this morning before the start. Bingo the Magnificent was filmed loading the Santa Fe in only three takes. Davo was filmed washing the Terracan with great flair. We expect this gripping footage to headline on Chinese television at the end of the Rally. Doc was interviewed for Chinese radio and, again, we expect this sound bite to headline in China. Calls by team members for the appointment of a team press secretary plus a make-up person are being pointedly ignored by the Big Cheese. Head sizes are being measured daily for obvious reasons.

Some team members took advantage of the early check-in to enjoy the hotel pool but the afternoon was used as an opportunity to relax and catch up on sleep. Dinner this evening was in the hotel’s Chinese Restaurant. Vientiane is a lively and attractive city with a good number of tourists in evidence. The French influence is still apparent in the architecture, restaurants and street designations (rues). Regrettably, time has not allowed us to explore the city properly.

Tomorrow our destination is the city of Vinh in Vietnam.

“Although fine weather and predictable road conditions can be expected for the remaining leg to Nanning, Team Singapore, Motosports (TSM) is leaving nothing to chance. We conducted checks on our cars and tighten the under-carriage. Unfortunately, we have to persevere with the suspension of both the Santa Fe and Terracan have shown early signs of fatigue. On the other hand, for various (or wrong) reasons, some crews of TSM are in extremely high spirit. Bingo is excited about the prospect of staging performances upon our arrival in Nanning. Aki-boon was seen checking out Ho Chi Ming Trail while Davo has gotten friendly with some of the masseurs whom he had patronised. Pictures of Davo in action are available upon request.”
Leslie Chang, Chief d’ Mission, TSM.

CAITA 2007 Daily Report - Day 07

DAY 7
Tuesday, 16th October 2007
Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand

Hill climb near northern Thailand

The kids forgotten that they were there to beg

Today was an eventful run of 443 kilometers from Siem Reap to Nakhon Ratchasima in Northern Thailand. Our total distance traveled is now 3,400 kilometers (after allowing for a correction to yesterdays run which was 320 km, not 220 km).

Two things stand out about the run. The first is the terrible road conditions experienced for 150 kilometers from Siem Reap to the Cambodian/Thai border at Poipet which took us 3 ½ hours to complete. In a word, the roads were terrible.

The second ‘stand out’ was the 3 hours it took for the convoy to clear Thai Customs and Immigration. Poor preparation by our Thai guides has been blamed for the delays. Leslie and Poh Heng took responsibility for getting our cars through while the rest of the team cooled its heels waiting. Leslie warned us that this type of delay was almost inevitable so we were not surprised but it is still frustrating.

The terrain all the way to about 100 kilometers short of our destination was flat but picturesque. Northern Thailand is characterised by a more interesting mountainous terrain and the scenery as we approached Nakhon Ratchasima was beautiful. We have not been able to look at the town yet.

Bingo has been a source of entertainment for all of us on this trip. He has a great sense of humour and his card and other tricks have attracted a lot of attention. Today was rather special. While waiting for our vehicles to be cleared at the border, Bingo started doing some card tricks in a barn-like waiting shed. Before we knew it, he had an audience of about 30 people, including a custom officer and some child beggars who totally forgot what they were there for. The next thing we knew, the Rally press, still and video, were there capturing the scene. The crowning touch was Bingo being interviewed for China National Television by a top current affairs reporter (and one of the cutest female journalists in the Rally). The rest of us are pea green with envy.

Our accommodation tonight is at the Sima Thani Hotel, perhaps the best hotel we have enjoyed to date. Dinner was in the hotel and was up to the standard we have come to expect from our hosts.

Tomorrow is Wednesday, so it must be Laos!!

“Team Singapore, Motorsports (TSM) completed Highway No. 6, from Siem Reap to Poipet, one hour ahead of schedule. The low-lying sections of the infamous route have mostly been raised. Thus, our earlier worries about the impending floods were unfound. However, the run wasn’t trouble free. The suspension of our vehicles was clearly unable to sustain prolonged pounding of the rough terrain. Even the comparatively rugged Terracan suffered rear end bottoming. At times, the bone-shaking jolts from the ruts and holes shook the wiper stalk resulting in the occasional ‘automatic’ wipes on the windscreen. We had the opportunity to engage the 4WD Lock on the Santa Fe to keep the wheel spins and body twists in control on a muddy section. However, it would be fair to say that it was business as usual on Thai’s excellent highways. Both cars are now in need of the spa treatment that only the ladies in Cambodia can provide.”
Leslie Chang, Chief d’ Mission, TSM.

CAITA 2007 Daily Report - Day 06

DAY 6
Monday, 15th October 2007
Siem Reap, Cambodia

Angkor New Freedom


We are happier - without 'Aki-boon' in the picture.


Hyundai is the preferred mode of transportation.


A monument en-route from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap


Today was a relatively short run of 220 kilometers from Phnom Penh, getting our total distance traveled to some 2,850 kilometers from Singapore. The contingent was given a ceremonial send off at 7.30AM by the Chinese Ambassador to Cambodia and a number of special guests and senior Rally organizers. Much was made of literally flying each country’s flag by Rally vehicles and it all made for a special start to today’s leg.

Road conditions were good with a sealed road all the way to Siem Reap. There is a real sense of prosperity on this highway to today’s destination. Uniformed school children everywhere, most of whom had bicycles. At one particular high school, many motor cycles were in evidence. Everyone seemed to be busy. Cambodia has had a difficult history over the years and it is encouraging to see such strong evidence of a strengthening and growing economy.

Driving chores in team vehicle 1 were shared by Dr Tan Poh Heng and Arch Stewart while David Duffield took vehicle number 2 all the way from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap.

We arrived in Siem Reap at about 12.30PM and drove straight to our lunch venue. This was all done in something of a rush because the afternoon had been set aside for a tour of Angkor - the highlight of the day. Weather conditions were not as harsh as yesterday and the walk was the first real exercise we have had since leaving Singapore. It was a real experience to see both Angkor Wat and the temple, Ta Prohm, for most of us, for the first time. The popularity of the Angkor temples and palaces is evidenced by the crowds circulating there today. Again, the organization by our hosts was fantastic. Nothing is left to chance.

Dinner this evening was a buffet spread at a nearby restaurant and included an entertaining cultural show. We must rise in the morning at 5AM so we are all taking the opportunity for an early night. The value of having a doctor with has been proven with Bingo requiring treatment for a mild stomach upset. Dr Tan has attended to Bingo’s problem and he is over the worst of it.

“Team Singapore, Motorsports (TSM) had its first taste in real world left-hand drive traffic conditions. Overtaking maneuvers on B-roads were further complicated by the different driving position. The team carried out its well-practiced radio communication procedures to overcome the adverse situation. Tomorrow, we are scheduled to return to Thailand via the toughest gravel road of the rally. In addition to undulations and big holes, we are expecting floods amid the monsoon rain. The tall stance of our Hyundai’s shall be put to good use”
Leslie Chang, Chief d’ Mission, TSM.

CAITA 2007 Daily Report - Day 05

DAY 5
Sunday, 14th October 2007
Phnom Penh, Cambodia


The 'picture perfect' TSM

Bingo and his stooch

Today is our first ‘rest’ day of the Rally and we have had a full programme to keep us busy. Without doubt, the highlight of the day was this evening’s dinner but more of that later.

The usual excellent buffet breakfast was available at our hotel, the Cambodiana Hotel, one of the best, if not the best hotel in Phnom Penh. The team assembled in the car park after breakfast at 8.15AM for a photo shoot for one of our very important sponsors, Stamford Tyres. Stamford's generosity has meant that our two vehicles were equipped with the best and most suitable wheels for this testing journey. Stamford have also supplied a range of other products and services that were vital to the preparation of our Hyundai 4WD’s. We take this opportunity of extending again our sincere and profound thanks for their most valuable support.

Four of our team elected to take part in a tour of a number of interesting sites around Phnom Penh. The Wat Ounalom and the Royal Palace were memorable, despite the oppressive heat brought on by a hot day after heavy rain overnight. Leslie and Bingo opted to remain at the hotel. Leslie spends a lot of time replying to the large number of e-mails generated by interest in the Rally.

David and Arch left the tour before lunch in order to visit the ‘Genocide Museum, Toul Sleng’. Both were touched deeply by the exhibits at this site of the torture and murder of thousands of innocent Cambodian and Vietnamese men, women and children by the Khmer Rouge between 1975 and 1979. Photos of the victims are displayed and are quite unsettling to view.

The team re-assembled at the hotel and planned the balance of the day. The only chore was to take both vehicles out for petrol and a thorough wash to remove the mud generated by our journey across Cambodia yesterday. The cars are now ‘as new’.

This evening’s dinner was a major event for our hosts. VIP’s included the Chinese Ambassador to Cambodia and a number of Government officials from both Cambodia and China. Speeches were given and, clearly, China regards the Rally as a vital ingredient in fostering healthy political, economic and sporting ties between China and all ASEAN countries. Their unconditional support of the Rally is clear evidence of their attitude.

Our youngest team member, Bingo the Magnificent, was the featured act of the evening. Bingo performed a 20 minute magic show that earned him a standing ovation from the large crowd of 170 plus present. His illusions were well executed and he has become a favourite with all Rally participants. Bingo was ably supported for one of his illusions by Aki-boon (Arch Stewart) who did a great job of making himself look stupid on cue. The team has been noticed by all participants.

It has been the intention of the writer to draw attention to the fine driving being done by our favourite Englishman, David Duffield (Davo). The conditions here are difficult to say the least and Davo has done himself proud. That said, we are duty bound to report that on learning that England had beaten France in the Rugby World Cup, he has been impossible to live with. We regret to advise that tensions bordering on outright hostility have broken out between Davo and Akiboon.

This writer is disappointed but is also duty bound to report an outbreak of censorship of this diary by Leslie, the Big Cheese. Nothing more can or should be said at this time!! Your writer will not allow this situation to continue. The truth will be my beacon.


6-woman spa treatment for the Terracan


very impressed

CAITA 2007 Daily Report - Day 04

DAY 4
Saturday, 13th October 2007
Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Good Day, Push your way.

Hyundai, Drive your way

Our Chinese hosts continue to outdo themselves with each new day. Breakfast at the Royal River Hotel in Bangkok was just sumptuous. Every taste was catered to in a beautiful room overlooking the river.

We started in convoy at 7.00AM and traffic conditions out of Bangkok were much better than coming into Bangkok last night. Road conditions to the Poipet on the Cambodian border, a run of 250 kilometers, were excellent and we made good time. We did expect the worst at the border with Cambodian Immigration but our fears were unfounded. All vehicles were checked and allowed entry in very short order and all passports were processed in a similar fashion. We did enjoy a great lunch at a border casino and by the time we had finished lunch we were able to leave the border area with all paper work in hand.

The contrast in conditions between the Thai and Cambodian sides of the border was dramatic. The roadway was unsealed and muddy as a result of recent rain. Beggars, mostly children, surrounded the cars and the scene was generally chaotic. Things got worse for the first 50 kilometers of our run to Phnom Penh. This ‘highway’ was unsealed and in terrible condition with potholes and corrugations giving us all a very uncomfortable ride. This area gave the impression of being economically depressed. We all felt as if we had been through a tumble dryer by the time we eventually reached a sealed road. Beyond this section, the standard of housing improved dramatically and there was a general sense of well being and prosperity. The countryside was flat but very green with enormous amounts of land sown with rice.

We traveled 664 kilometers today (totaling 2,629 kms till date), arriving 7.30PM at our hotel for the next two nights - Hotel Cambodiana, Phnom Penh. The rooms are spacious and the hotel is first class. Dinner tonight was another Chinese feast at a local restaurant about 1 kilometer from our hotel. Buses were provided to get us to and from the hotel.

The team has been performing admirably. Particular mention needs to be made about our ‘Big Cheese’ who gathered all of us at the cars 1 hour prior to our departure. We were made to empty our boots as much as possible. All equipments bags and pieces were placed and secured in the cabin. This apparent transfer of weight from the rear to the middle must have helped both cars from bottoming over the meanest unsealed surfaces.

The installation of lower guards must have also defrayed some of our earlier worries.

Tomorrow, a half day tour has been arranged for all participants and we are looking forward to tomorrow night’s dinner when “Bingo” the Magnificent will put on a premier Cambodian performance for an audience that will include the Chinese Ambassador to Cambodia. We expect the audience to include a number of talent scouts

“Team Singapore, Motorsports (TSM) continues its remarkable run. In a company that includes the renowned Toyota Landcruiser and Nissan Safari, our Santa Fe and Terracan demonstrated worthy off-road capabilities. We are proud to be powered by the all-round traits of the new generation Hyundai. Meanwhile, our entertainer (Bingo) shall be put to test tonight. We are confident of another good performance by TSM”
Leslie Chang, Chief d’ Mission, TSM.

Audition held at rest stop.

Machines that bear no fruit.

CAITA 2007 Daily Report - Day 03

DAY 3
Friday, 12th October 2007
Bangkok, Thailand

Aki-boon supposed to lose weight

Have sponsors will travel

Tonight we have been accommodated at the Royal River Hotel in Bangkok. This is a great hotel located on the Chao Praya River with expansive views of the city. The standard of hotels provided by the organisers has been very good. We have suffered for nothing where accommodation and meals are concerned.

We got away to a 7.30AM start this morning after a great breakfast at the Diamond Plaza Hotel in Suratthani. Road conditions between Suratthani and Bangkok, a distance of 649 kilometers (699 kms yesterday), were excellent and we had the easiest of drives. Lunch was a simple ‘pick-up’ meal at a roadhouse in transit to Bangkok. The drive through Bangkok to our hotel was ‘exciting’ but safely negotiated by drivers. For the first time we arrived at our destination in daylight at about 5PM.

This evening we were taken to dinner at a riverside restaurant around the corner from our hotel. The food was first class (as usual). Our Chinese hosts are leaving no stone unturned in laying on the best for a group of about 150 people. We are quite overwhelmed by their hospitality.

The organisation of the driving aspects of the rally is worth explaining. There are 29 cars and two buses carrying 155 people in 5 small convoys. We are in the fifth ‘mini’ convoy. A local guide and a Chinese organizer are in the lead car. Our team leader, Leslie Chang takes up the rear with his crew plus one Chinese organizer. The lead car is in constant radio communication with all other cars by radio, advising us of hazards, traffic conditions, stops etc. The Singapore team has its own radio network for inter car communications. It is a very well organized operation and we are very impressed with the professional approach taken by our hosts.

Continuing a rundown on our team:

Dr Tan Poh Heng (aka Doc or PH) is a valuable member of the team. He has driving and radio responsibilities and provides very helpful translations for our two Australian drivers. Doc has brought sufficient medical supplies to carry our anything from open heart surgery to a cesarean section. We trust his medical talents will not be needed.

David Duffield (aka Davo or Laypid) is one of our two Australian drivers and is more than pulling his weight in this department. David is also treasurer for the team and is responsible for car cleanliness.

Arch Stewart (aka the Nose or Akiboon) is our second Australian driver and our diarist. Regrettably, Arch has spent most of the rally warming the back seat of his car.

“Team Singapore, Motorsports (TSM) had an untroubled day finishing the sector well ahead of other convoys. The cars were checked in anticipation of the tough conditions in Cambodia. Daryl has been invited by our hosts to provide light-hearted entertainments during the Friendship Dinner to be held in Phnum Penh on 14th Oct 2007. We are glad to enjoy such level of co-operation with our Chinese counterpart.”
Leslie Chang, Chief d’ Mission, TSM.

Look, no more cold packet lunches


We spent some of our cash on these flowers.