CAITA 2011 (Joy with Tucson)

Life Transformation

I was still in my teens when I first took part in an Autotest (skilled driving event) held at the venue previously known as Kallang Runway. As motorsports is often considered dangerous, I did not enjoy much (if any) support from my family. By sheer determination and passion, I gradually upgraded myself from competing in club events to international competitions. Thanks to the encouragement from close friends, sponsors and well wishes, I am fortunate to have enjoyed an exceedingly high level of success in this sport.

Some years ago, I began to focus on long distance driving which is more appropriate for my advancing age. To date, I must have done a dozen overland trips that covered many countries in Asia including India and Myanmar. Like any travel adventure, there is always a story to tell after each trip. However, the journey to Nanning (China) and Koh Samui (Thailand) during Oct 2011 and Nov 2011 respectively, in my Hyundai Tucson will undoubtedly be to be the most memorable and infinitely unforgettable.

Man and Woman

My wife Irene will dutifully bear the task of looking after our business whenever I take part in any competition. Despite the added burden at work plus her concern about my safety while I am away competing, I am very thankful that she has not protested. It would be hard to imagine that this has been ongoing for the past 30 years! Hence, I set my mind to put an end to such ‘misery’ for Irene.
I persuaded her to be my co-driver for the CAITA 2011 (a marathon rally from Singapore to Nanning).
To my surprise, it turned out to be a wonderful trip for Irene. She did well in navigating and communicating with fellow team mates especially while driving through the difficult roads in Indo-China. During the event, the cabin of our Tucson was transformed into a command unit (as shown in below picture, taken while passing a town in Laos), being decked with navigational and multiple communication devices.

Irene’s constant involvement in the rally left her no time to feel nervous. In fact, there were many delightful Kodak moments along the route such as this one taken at the renowned Angkor Wat in Siam Reap.

We are really proud that our Tucson did well to keep up with the competition, clocking mile after mile effortlessly throughout the 6,000km rally. The ride is amazingly stress-free that we could even chat, share and enjoy each other’s company - reminiscent of our early courting days. It was such a blissful experience that we wish the rally could go on for another 6,000km.

Read story on CAITA 2011 at http://singaporecarboy.blogspot.com/2011_11_01_archive.html

Mother and Child

My mother loves to travel. Unfortunately, her mobility during the recent years has somewhat been restricted due to her failing knees. Therefore, I decided to take her for a driving holiday – an option that would enable me to drive my mum right to the doorstep of our destinations and, most importantly, allow me to spend bonding time with her while travelling for long hours in my Tucson.

From Surat Thani, we were supposed to head north towards Bangkok. Due to the flood crisis, we had no option but to divert our route eastwards and drove to Donsak Port. The Hyundai is seen here in the ferry on its way to Koh Samui (a famous island situated 40km away from mainland).

It has been a long time since I gave undivided attention to my mum. Hence, this trip was also about pampering her with good food (her favourite in Thailand is MK Restaurant), daily massage and 5-star accommodation. In below group shot taken with other family members and close friends, my mum (standing next to me) appeared very happy and seemed to be in good spirit.

Although I tried to plan the trip as free-and-easy as possible, some days we ended up spending more than 12 hours on the road. On our return journey, the car even climbed the winding roads leading to this temple on a hilltop in Hatyai City.

The trip may be a self-drive holiday but it was equally important to have a good car. I was pleased that the Hyundai covered the distance comfortably, never allowing my aged old mother to feel sick nor weary. At a floating market in Southern Thailand, my mum faced difficulty to walk down the river bank. The Tucson gamely pulled a party trick by switching to off-road mode and go near the boats for her to have a better view.

Unsung Hero

I bought the Tucson (pre-owned unit) 6 months ago so that I could take part in CAITA 2011 – an event strictly reserved for SUV or 4x4 vehicles. During the event, it was dwarfed by bigger machines including a Hummer, a Jeep Wrangler and several units of Land Cruisers. It was also humbled by cars with premium branding such as Range Rover, Lexus RX350, BMX x5 and x6. In terms of age, my 2005 registered Tucson didn’t fare well too. There were more shortcomings about the Hyundai but it did not matter to me. Few cars of the same age can lay claim to trouble-free run during the 2 back-to-back trips covering almost 9,000km. Even fewer cars in the Tucson price range can offer such high level of performance, handling and ride comfort. And most importantly, none other than my Tucson is capable of bringing so much joy to the 2 most important women in my life.

It may lack of snob appeal but the Hyundai scores on practicality and reliability. The model may have been replaced by the current Tucson but its clean lines and no-frills design has aged gracefully as seen in below picture taken outside a car showroom in Nanning.

There are still a good number of older Tucson’s on our roads today. I am now in a position to better understand the proud smiles often seen behind the wheels of such cars.

Jaguar XF 2.2 D

Many car advertisements publish claims and results which were attained overseas often under stipulated conditions. Below, a full-page advertisement by Wearnes Automotive goes one up.
It carries the credit of having its claim being tested and proven under local driving conditions.

The following story will provide an insight on the new Jaguar XF 2.2D Fuel Efficiency Challenge.

Last December, Leonard and his son Alvin invited me for dinner at Tanglin Club.
Of course, cars have always been one of the subjects which we speak about whenever we meet.
At that time, Len just bought a C-Class Estate powered by a 2.2 litre diesel engine.
He impressed upon me how his new car would easily clock more than 800km on a full tank of fuel.
Back home, my son Bingo was also experiencing high mileage while driving his company’s Fiat Doblo 1.9 Diesel.

When Angie called me last month to do a 1000-km drive with new Jaguar XF 2.2 Diesel using only 1 tank of fuel, I was more than ready to accept the challenge.
Hence, Angie went ahead to discuss the execution plan with the car company.

We finally set off for Malaysia on Friday early morning, 24 Nov 2011.
The unit which I drove was registered the day before and barely run in.
I had 2 female passengers (Corinne from Wearnes Automotive and Jun from MediaCorp) and was pleased with the overall consumption of 5.1L/100km.
In fact, the car peaked at 4.6L/100km shortly after Pagol along the North South Highway.


This picture was taken during one of our breaks near KL International Airport.

I took several anti fatigue measures such as cold towels, energy boosting drinks and a steady mind that enabled me to drive mile after mile consistently. Still, after driving more than 10 hours, nothing beats a cold shower and a change of clothes at the Ayer Keroh R&R. Despite the long working hours, I like my job because the cabin of the XF is very pleasant and comfortable.

When we returned to the Jaguar showroom on the same evening, the trip meter recorded 1,021 kms while the onboard computer displayed a remaining range capable of reaching Desaru!

Last Friday, we repeated the same routine but with added formalities.
SMSA Deputy President Harold Netto was at the Jaguar Showroom to witness the ‘tank sealing’ procedure and to flag off the event.

This time round, I had 3 passengers – Jun from MediaCorp plus Glenn Ong and Flying Dutchman (FD) from Class 95 FM's Morning Express Show.
The DJs injected some life into the rather monotonous drive with their hourly radio ‘live’ reporting. Glenn and FD are seen here roving via cellular phone prior to flagging off.

Inevitably, the pair added weight to the car which resulted in a higher overall consumption of 5.7L/100km. However, given the following parameters of the test, the consumption figures from both trips remain highly respectable:
(a.) The car must be taken off the shelf (read showroom) i.e. no modification or whatsoever mechanical work allowed. Increase in tyre pressure was capped at 10% above manufacturer’s recommendations;
(b.) The route must include a balanced mix of highways, B roads and city driving. In fact, during the actual event, we were adversely affected by jams (due to accidents and rush hours traffic) and thunderous showers; and
(c.) The driver must observe road safety at all times. Therefore, beating traffic lights, free-wheeling and other forms of dangerous driving were strictly prohibited. For record, our moving average speed for both trips was 80km/h and the climate control system was set at 23.5 degrees.

Here’s another unit of the XF driven by Angie.

Angie’s car carried SMSA official cum cameraman Eddie Ong, Wayne and Raymond from MediaCorp and Wearnes Automotive respectively.
It is interesting to note that Angie was registering equally respectable consumption figures – a testimony to the fuel efficiency of the XF.

Eddie has always been a fan of Jaguar. I remember he bought a white Jag years ago and drove it till the COE expired. Thus, the event must have pleasantly taken him down the memory lane.

Having spent such extensive hours behind the wheel of the new Jaguar XF 2.2 D, I would like to take this opportunity to summarise my views on the car.

1. Engine - Useful torque and highly responsive.
2. Handling – Sharper than the pre-facelift 3.0L V6 model.
3. Ride – Firm, not unlike its German counterparts.
4. Comfort – Great ambience although let down by poor leg room.
5. Others – Engine Stop-Start function needs further refinement.


Verdict: Worthy contender for ‘2011 The Straits Times Car of the Year’ award.



Story by Leslie Chang

CAITA 2011:

As I stood outside the port, waiting to receive my Hyundai Tucson, I recalled the special moments that I have spent with the car during the past 6 months. From the primary forest in Malaysia, through the highlands in Laos and into the city of Nanning, China, the car had just covered more than 6,000 kilometers of extreme road conditions before being transported back to Singapore via sea.

The car was one of the few units of the 2.7-litre version imported by Komoco Motors during 2005. I bought my car in May this year from the resale market, just in time to submit my entry for the 5th China Asean International Touring Assembly (CAITA). Proudly dubbed as the “largest, broadest and longest automobile assembly race in Asia”, the event was organised by the state government of Guangxi Province with support from General Administration of Sport of China and Federation of Automobile Sports, China. This was one of the main events leading to the annual China-ASEAN Summit that was held in Nanning City, China.



The primary objective of CAITA was to promote the overland connectivity between China and ASEAN countries. Participation for foreigners is strictly through invitation by the Organising Committee. This is usually extended to motorsports governing bodies in Asean countries. I had to confirm my entry 4 months before the flag-off of the event so that the Organising Committee had ample time to apply for Entry Permits into Vietnam. The country restricts right-hand drive vehicles and approvals are only granted on a special case basis.



Back to the car - it had 1 previous owner, registered as OPC, clocked 56,000 km and was sold to me for less than $28,000/-. An amount of $5,000/- was incurred on preparation works including suspension upgrade, timing belt replacement and engine tuning. In additional, I am grateful for the generous sponsorship and kind assistance rendered by the following companies:

Stamford Tyres (supply of tyres)

Espace Service (heavy duty under-carriage protection)

T3 Bicycle Gears (fine tuning of radio communication set)




The car was subsequently driven at high speed for its shake-down run along the North-South Highway in Malaysia. It even underwent this ultimate test in Taman Negara without encountering any problem.


On the route, the same cannot be said of this Mercedes ML350 where the inadequate angle of departure caused its rear bumper to give way.


After the mud ploughing exercise, the car was sent to Komoco Motors for a final check on the eve of her marathon drive to China.


My son Bingo and his bike gang were at the Singapore Flyer for the flag-off ceremony.


It was a very long and tiring day on 4th Oct 2011. We started driving from Penang (Malaysia), consumed much time at Sadao border crossing and finally arrived at Cha-am (Thailand) late at night. The journey of 950 km took almost 15 hours to complete. Looking back, we were rather fortunate to pass Bangkok just days ahead of the flood crisis.




I was given a pleasant surprise when I arrived in Siam Reap (Cambodia). News and a picture of me with my family were published in the main page of a local Chinese newspaper.


Away from the vast plains, the highlights of this year’s route were found in Laos. This land locked country has an interesting mix of roads.

Driving on gravel was a memorable experience, especially in rural areas. There is little traffic and folks look happy to live their life without creature comforts.








The principle of safe driving is to always stay alert and never attempt to stray off the beaten track. Otherwise, even a Hummer cannot redeem any act of fool hardiness.



I have taken part in all previous editions of CAITA. To leverage on my experience, the Organiser requested me to take on the duty of Vice-Commander. The role required me to carry out special tasks on demand such as answering distress calls from other competing cars or ‘shepherding’ cars that had strayed from its convoy. During the course of my job, I found my Tucson to be a highly competent vehicle. Its silky V6 engine provides useful torque while the handling (for an urban SUV) cannot be faulted. The car is seen here along a newly completed highway in Hanoi (Vietnam), waiting for instruction from the Rally Commander.



At the closing ceremony, I was invited to deliver a speech. I took the opportunity to highlight these 3 main reasons for my continuous participation in this event.


1. Rally Atmosphere -

The event is very well organised, keeps evolving and improves year after year. It is a fine example of “as much joy in getting there as reaching there”.


2. Learning Opportunities -

From the rallies, I have learnt to carry out various roles including lead car, sweeper, command duties and radio procedure during a rally. And I am pleased that these skills are essential safety factors of a rally.


3. Building Relationships –

Many leaders, officials and fellow participants of the rallies have become my close friends. In fact, plans are being arranged to invite members of Singapore Motor Sports Association to Nanning City for a driving event next year.



Meanwhile, my faithful Tucson is now back on Singapore roads. It appears a little weary and soiled; with each layer of dirt representing every country the car had travelled. The Tucson will be put into action again in 1 week’s time because I will be driving the same car to Phuket (Thailand). The 2-way journey will be approximately 3,000 km. Hence, for peace of mind, I have the car inspected thoroughly by the workshop. No surprise here - the job order is simply short and sweet i.e. change engine oil, remove stickers and a good wash! This is similar to the 2 earlier Hyundai cars which I had driven during previous rallies. The Tucson is amazingly versatile and, most importantly, trouble-free. Incidentally, Hyundai’s “New Thinking, New Possibilities” slogan lends me a unique way to promote my line of products.



In conclusion, I would like to thank the Organising Committee of CAITA 2011 and Singapore Motors Sports Association for my participation. I am also thankful to Komoco Motors for the support provided, World Freight for the freight logistics arrangement and to all well wishes who had provided much encouragement and help towards my successful completion of CAITA 2011.

Asean Family Rally 2010 – Day 2

The Asean Family Rally was initiated by Thailand to promote overland tourism and, most importantly, to foster closer relationship her neighbouring countries. Its inaugural event held during 2009 was a great success. Then, the Singapore team comprising 11 cars and 24 crew members drove from Singapore to Pattalung (Southern Province of the Thai Kingdom) to participate in the 2-day rally. The rare experience of driving on scenic country roads with fellow participants from all over South-East Asia and the warmth hospitality displayed by the Thai host made this event so special for those who made the trip. Story of the event can be found at http://singaporecarboy.blogspot.com/2009/02/asean-family-rally-2009-content-page.html

After some delays, Thailand managed to host the subsequent event titled “Hug Thailand Grand Rally” in Bangkok from 12th till 14th November 2010.


The following photo essay provides a summary of Day 2 (13th Nov 2011).


All participants had their breakfast at Chatrium Suites and were shuttled in coaches to the Royal Plaza. The venue is a public square fronted by King Rama V Monument. As seen in below picture, the square was cleared of traffic to standby for the rally’s ceremonial start.

Participating teams were lined up according to their respective countries for roll call and final briefing.


At this flag-off point, each car was given printed navigational instructions and a set of treasure hunt questions.


The route led the rally cars towards south-west direction, passing various Time Controls located within places of interest such as this attraction.


It was a trip down Thailand’s memory lane as we visited this Victorian styled summer palace, …….


….royal sea-side resorts…..


…and posing for photo shoot at this memorial park.


For the rally, all participants drove the same type of car i.e. Toyota Camry Hybrid. Though ordinary looking, its dual mode power plant is highly efficient and very quiet. To some, the opportunity to drive such a high-tech vehicle must be the highlight of the event. The rally cars were regrouped at below location before the final section of the route to end point located at Hua Hin.


On the rear door of each car allocated to the Singapore team, we applied various YourSingapore thematic logos provided by Singapore Tourism Board. Car # 20 was driven by Leslie Chang, Alex Tang and Carrera Chang. Theme of logo – “Explore your wild side this weekend at YourSingapore”


Car # 21 was driven by Mr and Mrs Eddie Ong and Samantha Tan with YourSingapore SPICES (Food) logo.


Car # 22 was driven by Peter Khoo, Cathyrn Chong and Louis Yeo. Theme of logo – “It’s a surprising smile every second at YourSingapore”


Car # 23 was driven by Mr and Mrs Lawrence Lee and ‘Bingo’ Chang. Theme of logo – “Make your Singapore nights electrifying at YourSingapore”


It was a tiring day but possibly the best way to discover the rich history and hidden beauties of the land known for its thousand smiles. The long drive ended at Marriott Hua Hin where the competing cars were surrendered to rally marshals. This view of the hotel’s serene poolside was taken from our sea-facing room.


The camaraderie continued as leaders of participating teams exchanged contacts during prize presentation dinner.


On stage, a representative of the Singapore team presented a memento to our host.


Finally, our efforts were rewarded with a prize.


For formality, the Singapore team finished as 1st Runner-up (same as 2009).


Although the 1st place have eluded the Singapore team again, our spirits remain undaunted by the result. In fact, we felt very privileged to be among the participating teams. Congratulations to our host for a well organised event. Best wishes to the friendly people of Thailand!

Asean Family Rally 2010 – Day 1

The Asean Family Rally was initiated by Thailand to promote overland tourism and, most importantly, to foster closer relationship her neighbouring countries. Its inaugural event held during 2009 was a great success. Then, the Singapore team comprising 11 cars and 24 crew members drove from Singapore to Pattalung (Southern Province of the Thai Kingdom) to participate in the 2-day rally. The rare experience of driving on scenic country roads with fellow participants from all over South-East Asia and the warmth hospitality displayed by the Thai host made this event so special for those who made the trip. Story of the event can be found at http://singaporecarboy.blogspot.com/2009/02/asean-family-rally-2009-content-page.html


The following photo essay provides a summary of Day 1 (12th Nov 2011).


After some delays, Thailand managed to host the subsequent event titled “Hug Thailand Grand Rally” in Bangkok from 12th till 14th November 2010.


The host extended invitation to the Singapore team through Singapore Tourism Board. Again, I was honoured to be given the opportunity to lead the mission with a team of 12 members including drivers, co-drivers, treasure-hunters, photographers, radio-man and an entertainer! This time we left our cars at home because the event took on a different format. On 12 Nov 2011 (Day 1), our host arranged air passage for us to fly from Singapore to Bangkok. We were promptly greeted by the event officials at Suvannabhumi International Airport.

Participants were checked into this relatively new service apartment (Chatrium Suites) situated along the majestic Chao Phraya River.

A press conference was held in the afternoon at the grand hall of the same venue. Leaders of each participating team (country) were on stage to field questions from the media and fellow participants.

All participants were later invited to a river cruise with international dinner buffet served onbaord.

Till this day, the river still provides a major form of transportaion for commuters within Bangkok city. Long tail water-taxis and crowded ferries are a common sight along the water way. However, the busy scene is transformed into beautiful scenery as night falls. Some of the distinctive landmarks spotted during our evening cruise include the rich architecture of a Thai temple, ....

…an unmistakable Roman Catholic Church with its sky high blue cross,…

...the impressive Rama IX cable-stayed bridge, ….

, and an interesting row of historic and modern buildings lining the river.

On board, a bubbly Thai female journalist took turns to interview a representative from every country.


Particpants were in party mood even before the rally has started.

Although the night was still young when the boat returned to the jetty at Chatrium Suites, it was a well planned party that contributed towards the success of the event.