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!
